Our Mission
Founder Series is an initiative within the KinTech Network focused on expanding access to AI and business development tools for underrepresented founders and small business creators.
We provide education, hands-on training, technical assistance, and mentorship — helping individuals and small businesses build sustainable opportunities using modern technology.
Founder Series is intended to grow as a standalone nonprofit initiative focused on increasing access to technology, entrepreneurship, and economic participation in underserved communities.
Philosophy: Systems Create Equity
"Systems create equity. Fix the system, change the outcomes."
This drives everything at KinTech. We build systems that remove barriers and create opportunity. Founder Series extends that mission by expanding access to the tools and knowledge that help people build.
Leadership
Shanell Guardo
Founder, KinTech, LLC
Shanell Guardo founded KinTech, LLC — a veteran and technologist who builds systems centered on the people who rely on them.
Her experience spans defense, healthcare, financial services, and public-sector technology, with a focus on designing and delivering systems that expand access to essential services and economic opportunity.
Education & Credentials:
- MEng, Systems Engineering - University of Virginia
- MBA - East Carolina University
- BS, Economics - Fayetteville State University
- Project Management Professional (PMP)
- U.S. Air Force Veteran, Medical Service Corps Officer
What Founders Are Saying
Real feedback from our pilot cohort participants
"This pilot is introducing information in a guided manner that is digestible and makes me feel like I'm actually capable of understanding. It allows me to see that there are new possibilities for me on my professional journey. The course has been presented in a format that is not too overwhelming or intimidating. The founder offers feedback and guidance in a timely manner which shows that she truly cares how well you grasp the information."
💡 Key Benefit: Caring mentorship and digestible learning
"What I found most valuable was getting a clear breakdown of what an MVP actually is and how to start small instead of feeling overwhelmed by the full vision. It helped me realize that I don't have to have everything figured out to begin. This program solves the problem of not knowing where to start. One aha moment for me was understanding how my long-term goal can be broken down into a simple MVP that I can actually work on now."
💡 Key Benefit: From overwhelmed to actionable steps
"Throughout the session, I realized how accessible entrepreneurship can be with the right tools and information. Previously, I had the misconception that you had to be a genius to build something. Now, I feel like the barrier has been lowered. I highly recommend this series to students facing uncertainty in their career paths or entering a challenging job market. Founders no longer need to be tech-savvy; they can simply read the 'KinTech Manual' and watch their ideas come to life."
💡 Key Benefit: Accessibility — no tech genius required
"I appreciated the knowledge-base and patience of the facilitator, Shanell. She was open, created an environment for inquiry, and was exceptionally professional."
💡 Key Benefit: Professional, supportive learning environment
Stay Connected
Join the waitlist to learn about upcoming Founder Series opportunities and resources.
Join the Waitlist