Finishing the Bronco Ventures Accelerator — and Starting What’s Next
Reflections from completing the Bronco Ventures Accelerator and pitching Brand Story Machine on Demo Day.
I’m still processing what an incredible ride Bronco Venture Accelerator Cohort 7 (BVA7) has been.
Four months ago, I got the email: You’ve been accepted. I was thrilled — and had no idea what was in store.
Joining BVA7 has been both an honor and a gift. Finishing it has been energizing, inspiring, and deeply rewarding.
Coming back to Santa Clara University once a week was a joy (and wow, it’s changed!). Being surrounded by students, professors, and fellow founders reminded me what a special place it is.
Our BVA7 cohort was something unique — a group of founders, leaders, professors, volunteers, investors, and mentors who truly showed up for one another. Every conversation, pitch, and practice session (and there were MANY) was fueled by feedback, encouragement, and genuine care. I couldn’t have asked for a more supportive group.
The culmination of the program was our investor pitch on demo day — two minutes on a big stage in front of 800 people. No notes. No teleprompter. Just me, the story, and the spotlight. It was nerve-wracking, but also exhilarating. I stepped off the stage feeling nothing but pride and gratitude — and let out an uncontrolled, joyful “YES!” Click to watch the video!
Watch the demo day video.
To make it even more special, my parents were in the audience. My dad, Ray Riordan (Class of 1960), was back on campus for his 65th reunion during Homecoming.
Endless thanks to my dear friend and tech lead, Julia Hu. Also Kim Celestre (my wise mentor) and to Morgan Slain, Cristina Florea, and Michael Kovalich, who led with heart and built a program that’s both structured and deeply human. A special nod to Nick Chong (of Zoom fame) for his inspiring opening address — and to SCU President Julie Sullivan, who reminded us that Santa Clara University’s origin story has always been one of adaptation and innovation.
As for what’s next — I’m taking everything I learned (and every connection made) to keep growing Brand Story Machine: bringing the organizing power of brand strategy and messaging to businesses who’ve historically had to skip it for lack of time, budget, or access.
Congrats to all the amazing founders in BVA7 — I’ve learned so much from each of you. Your passion, dedication, and generosity are truly inspiring. We’ve been through the gauntlet together — and we’re now forever bonded. 👏. Shout out to:
Benjamin Richard Wang MD Hari Venkata Aseem Asthana Josh Dorward Jamie Zimmerman Laila Marshall Minny Walia Philip Park Rohit Valia Paul Johnson Ionel Miu Mythili Subharam Aidan Simonian Alejandro Rendon Gail Jefferson Mahesh Jammalamadaka Praneet Jain Francisco Salinas and many more.
We’re just getting started — and together, we’ll keep growing. ✨
If anyone is interested in applying for Cohort 8, I highly recommend it, and I’d be happy to meet up ans share more detail
I’m so honored to be part of the SCU and Bronco Ventures community, and I can’t wait to stay involved, and give back.
#BVA7 #BroncoVentures #SantaClaraUniversity #founders #startups #brandstrategy #grateful #entrepreneurship