Clonan joins CenterState CEO as VP of innovation and entrepreneurship

SYRACUSE, N.Y. — CenterState CEO, Central New York’s primary economic-development agency, has announced new leadership at the Tech Garden, a 10-year old business incubator it operates in downtown Syracuse. Rick Clonan has joined as VP for innovation and entrepreneurship.

Clonan most recently worked at C&S Companies as VP and board advisory group member. Before joining C&S, he started Slide Systems LLC, a developer of aftermarket automotive parts. Under Clonan’s leadership, the company attained three patents and won multiple “best in category” awards for its products, according to CenterState CEO. Clonan earned a bachelor’s degree in physics from Syracuse University and served in the United States Air Force and Air National Guard.

“Rick brings a unique background from the private sector, startup experience and military service to our innovation and entrepreneurship portfolio,” Rob Simpson, president and CEO of CenterState CEO, said in an email newsletter that the organization sent members on Dec. 3. “He has a demonstrated track record of developing ideas into successful businesses, and has nurtured multiple ventures from concept stages to full operations.”

In his new position, Clonan will help develop business and technology development programs for entrepreneurs and startups.

He replaces Seth Mulligan, who left the Tech Garden and CenterState CEO in October to become operations manager at Syracuse–based TCGplayer, a fast-growing digital marketplace that sells game cards and related products.

Contact The Business Journal News Network at news@cnybj.com