Dustin Wilson has joined NextCorps as Startup Community Manager, bringing nearly a decade of experience in entrepreneurship and business development. His background includes leadership roles at Launch NY, KnowCap, and various entrepreneurial ventures, where he developed and implemented support programs for startups across industries.
From contractor to catalyst
Wilson’s career began outside of the entrepreneurial world, working as a general contractor and apprenticing as an electrician until the 2008 economic downturn prompted him to reconsider his path. During this time, he discovered a passion for entrepreneurship while pursuing a degree in music.
“I built my first business in a class and tried to get it off the ground through a tech transfer program,” Wilson recalled. “That experience sparked my interest in supporting others with big ideas.”
Since then, Wilson has held positions that involved connecting entrepreneurs with resources, funding, and mentorship. At Launch NY, he managed 50 mentors and worked with more than 400 startups. His journey also led him to pursue an MBA in Global Social & Sustainable Enterprise from Colorado State University, where he focused on creating sustainable business models.
Building bridges for Rochester’s startup community
Now back in his hometown of Rochester, NY, Wilson is eager to work closely with startups incubating at NextCorps. He’ll draw on his experience as a connector to help them navigate the region’s many resources and cultivate valuable relationships.
“In my previous jobs, the scope was broad, and I didn’t have as much opportunity to build direct relationships with the entrepreneurs I supported,” said Wilson. “This role allows for a deeper connection with startups, which I find incredibly fulfilling.”
Teaching and adventurous pursuits
When he’s not supporting our startup clients at NextCorps, Wilson is working to inspire the next generation of business leaders as an adjunct professor of entrepreneurship at SUNY Brockport.
“Teaching was always something I wanted to explore, and it’s been rewarding to engage with students and share insights from my experiences,” he said.
A former skateboarder and extreme sports enthusiast, Wilson spends his free time channeling an adventurous spirit into activities that combine nature and discovery — hiking, creek walking, and exploring hidden waterfalls. He’s also an avid tabletop gamer and values time with family and friends.