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Maria Derchi Russo is a seasoned professional in the tech and startup ecosystem in South Florida, currently serving as Vice President of Platform & Community at Florida Funders since March 2021. As Executive Director of Refresh Miami since November 2015, Maria has been instrumental in fostering a community of over 16,500 members dedicated to tech and innovation. Additional roles include co-hosting the Miami Tech Pod and founding Women in Miami Tech, which supports over 2,000 professionals. Maria's investment experience spans various ventures, including QuickNode and LULA, and prior roles include Global Ecosystem Director at TheVentureCity. Maria holds an MBA in Marketing and Entrepreneurship from Northwestern University and a Bachelor in Business Administration from Boston University.