Startup Coaches, Events, and Resources

As an entrepreneur with a proven record of scaling companies from inception to multimillion-dollar valuations, I have led ventures in robotics, life sciences, and sustainable technologies. My leadership experience spans: Founding two companies with a combined valuation increase of 30x, raising over $25M in financing. Securing 6 successful exits through IPOs and M&A, driving cumulative valuations exceeding $600M. Developing global business strategies, managing cross-border teams, and establishing partnerships with Fortune 500 companies. Holding MBA credentials with honors from Columbia Business School and a Forbes recognition for outstanding entrepreneurship. My clients gain access to: Practical strategies for fundraising, scaling, and market penetration. Expertise in navigating international business landscapes, particularly in AI, robotics, and ESG-driven ventures. Tailored guidance to achieve their unique entrepreneurial goals.

I’m a co-founder of Amby Health, a Y Combinator W25 startup. I studied computer science at MIT as an undergraduate and later left a master’s program in machine learning to pursue my startup full time. I’ve been through the YC application process, the batch itself, and fundraised on Demo Day, which gives me firsthand context on how YC evaluates founders and early-stage ideas. I can help with: 1. YC applications and strategy Clarifying your story, tightening answers, and focusing on what YC actually cares about, especially for early or pre-traction teams. 2. Startup and career decision-making Thinking through startup versus big tech tradeoffs, timing risk, and why I chose the startup path over roles at companies like Google or Meta. If you are looking for clear, candid feedback from someone who has recently navigated these processes, I am happy to help.

Welcome to my profile! As the Co-Founder and former CEO of Moringa School, I led a team that trained over 4,000 students with an impressive 85% job placement rate, transforming higher education in Africa. My entrepreneurial journey has been recognized by Forbes, Fast Company, and the World Economic Forum, among others. I am passionate about empowering entrepreneurs and have coached 18 individuals to successfully launch and grow their ventures. Whether you're looking to refine your business strategy or navigate the challenges of scaling, I'm here to help you achieve your entrepreneurial goals. Let's connect and take your business to the next level!

McKenzie Bauer is experienced in coaching startup founders, especially female founders because she’s lived the journey firsthand. As the co-founder of Thread Wallets, she helped grow the brand from a small idea launched out of her childhood bedroom into a nationally recognized lifestyle company. Through that process, she gained deep, practical experience in branding, marketing, leadership, and culture-building—all while navigating the ups and downs of entrepreneurship. Her background has made her particularly skilled at helping founders clarify their vision, build resilient teams, and scale with authenticity. She’s passionate about mentorship and emotional intelligence in leadership, using her own lessons from the startup world to guide others through early-stage challenges with confidence and creativity. As a Forbes 30 Under 30 Alumni in the Retail and E-Commerce Category, McKenzie's intuitive marketing skills, desire for authenticity and community building helped land Thread on the INC. 500 twice in 2020 and 2021.