Cary Goldwax (he/him)
COO, IONODES
Cary Goldwax has spent more than three decades building companies across a surprisingly wide spectrum, from traditional brick-and-mortar businesses to some of the most advanced technology sectors.
Along the way he has been a founder, operator, investor, board member, mentor, and more than once, the person brought in to fix things when they were heading in the wrong direction. The result is a practical perspective shaped by real-world successes, failures, recoveries, and lessons learned the expensive way.
Today, Cary serves as COO of IONODES and remains deeply involved in the startup ecosystem as an investor, mentor, board member, and longtime Startupfest judge. He continues to do it because somewhere along the way he developed an unhealthy affection for difficult problems, ambitious people, and situations that begin with the words "we may have an issue."
Founders quickly learn that Cary is far less interested in hearing why something should work than understanding why it might not. He has a habit of challenging assumptions, testing logic, and asking the questions founders secretly hope investors won't ask.
Over the years he has participated in several successful exits, sat through countless board meetings, and survived every business prediction he has ever made.
His profile photo may be a Muppet. His questions, unfortunately, will be VERY real.