OUR TEAM

Nova Raft | CEO

Nova Raft | CEO

Nova designed apparel for Fortune 500 companies in New York City including Nike, Ralph Lauren, and Michael Kors. Her extreme attention to detail in design transitioned her career to becoming the Global Manager of Product Development, sourcing, international imports, and manufacturing for both corporations and small businesses. 

With her valuable knowledge and experience, she witnessed firsthand how many small businesses struggled with development and securing funding. As a result, she created her business NRBA to enhance business operations  through business development classes, workshops, and one-on-one advisory support.

To further her commitment to women's economic advancement, she completed Cornell University's Women’s Entrepreneurship Certificate Program. As a philanthropist, she has worked as a Project Manager for the nonprofit 48in48, helping women in business develop and launch their websites in just 48 hours.

Nova is currently developing a unified solution with one site, one login, and one platform for effortlessly searching grant funding.

As a passionate CEO and Philanthropist, she is bridging the gap between businesses and funders by utilizing technology to increase financial success while contributing to economic development. 

Cara Santino | Business Advisor Consultant

Cara Santino | Business Advisor Consultant

Cara is the Food Entrepreneurship Director at CitySeed. She has expertise with writing and winning grants. With 17 years of experience in the food and beverage industry.

She is currently leading the development of Little Lion Collective in New Haven, CT. Little Lion Collective is a mobile wine, mocktail, and music bar that unites people and makes wine approachable.

Brooke Kurt | Business Operations Consultant

Brooke Kurt | Business Operations Consultant

Brooke is the CEO of BO.ON a high-end USA fashion production company that handles everything from sample creation to full-scale production for luxury brands.

With her expertise in managing large budgets and scaling operations, she keeps logistics running smoothly, ensuring every project stays on track and meets deadlines. Her company specializes in sourcing, pattern-making, quality control, and manufacturing. Brooke leverages her Turkish roots and bilingual skills to provide premium production services through a trusted network in Turkey that delivers world wide.

BOARD OF ADVISORS

Chaz Gaines |  Vice President at M&T Bank

Chaz Gaines | Vice President at M&T Bank

Business Relationship Manager

Individual wearing a navy suit jacket, white dress shirt, and dark tie against a gray background.

Chavar Hollinger | Regional Philanthropy Officer at American Red Cross

MBA - Marketing & Marketing Management

Samuel Gyamfi | CEO

Samuel Gyamfi | CEO

Currently pursuing a Ph.D. System Modeling and Analysis with a focus on Statistics and Data Science.