Kauffman Foundation looks within, names new executive director for 1 Million Cups, FastTrac

The new steward of two core programs from the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation brings a wealth of experience in inclusive entrepreneurship and as a workforce development leader, the influential Kansas City philanthropic organization said Monday.

Olatunji Ajani, 1 Million Cups, FastTrac; photo courtesy of the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation

Olatunji Ajani, a current associate at the Kauffman Foundation, begins his role as executive director for 1 Million Cups and FastTrac on July 1. Both programs were launched by the Kauffman Foundation to address root causes and break down systemic barriers so that all people  have the opportunity to achieve economic stability, mobility, and prosperity.

“These programs can change the trajectory of cities by nurturing entrepreneurs and fostering innovation within our communities,” said Ajani. “By supporting entrepreneurs, we’re supporting the workforce of our future.” 

Ajani is based in Kansas City, but will be driving strategy nationwide, the Kauffman Foundation said, noting the hiring of this position is a recommitment to the programs and their continued growth and success.

Click here to learn more about 1 Million Cups programming in Kansas City.

Olatunji Ajani, 1 Million Cups, FastTrac, speaks with Elijah Dormeus, I Am Foundation; photo courtesy of the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation

He is tasked with building and supporting both programs, locally and nationally, driving forward the mission of empowering entrepreneurs and fostering vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystems, Kauffman said. His strategic vision and passion for innovation are ready to propel these initiatives into the future, further solidifying their impact on the entrepreneurial landscape, both locally and nationally, the organization said.

Prior to joining the Kauffman Foundation in 2022, Olatunji led programmatic work for the Lemelson Foundation and the Aspen Institute, where he was tasked with sustaining, growing, and developing data-driven strategies to achieve impact. Olatunji has played key roles in management consulting, technology start-ups, impact network management, and nonprofit leadership. 

FastTrac is an entrepreneurial education program that carries out Ewing Kauffman’s belief that everyone has a fundamental right to turn an idea into an economic reality, while 1 Million Cups seeks to provides a supportive, inclusive space for entrepreneurs and their communities to gather and connect, where they can work through business challenges and identify opportunities.

“The Foundation remains committed to strengthening economic mobility through entrepreneurship and hiring Olatunji to lead these efforts is a continued demonstration of that commitment,” said Dr. DeAngela Burns-Wallace, CEO, Kauffman Foundation. “His dedication to creating sustainable impact and his passion for nurturing long-term success will undoubtedly strengthen these initiatives for years to come. Greater equitable economic mobility for all is our vision and our support of these programs is one more step towards that.”