Zuccardi Joins Winrock International in Full-Time Role

Karen Zuccardi (’19) has started work with Winrock International as a Program Associate.

Zuccardi began her tenure at Winrock International as an intern in the Delta I-Fund, a proof-of-concept startup accelerator that connects budding entrepreneurs in the eight-state DRA territory with training, local business mentors and funding, in January 2019.

“I have always been very passionate about innovation, disruptive ideas, and green technologies, so being employed at an organization that is working hard to support creativity in rural America is a dream job to me,” Zuccardi said.

Zuccardi will be supporting economic development projects in Arkansas and the Delta Regional Authority region that pertain to entrepreneurship. She will assist in the implementation of startup accelerators throughout the Mississippi Delta and the state of Arkansas. As an entrepreneurial ecosystem builder, she will help create environments for entrepreneurs to thrive.

In the summer of 2018, Zuccardi traveled to Bali, Indonesia, to work with Avani Eco, an organization with the vision to become the nation’s leading pioneer in sustainable alternatives, offering eco-friendly packaging products ranging from shopping bags, F&B packaging, and hotel amenities.

“My first experience with the entrepreneurial world started at the Clinton School,” Zuccardi said. “In the summer of 2018, I conducted my IPSP in a successful social startup in Indonesia. That opportunity opened my eyes to the uncapped potential that local entrepreneurs have in sustainable economic development. I feel fortunate that now my job is in an area about which I am so passionate.”

Zuccardi currently serves as Vice Chair of the Little Rock Sustainability Commission, created for the purpose of studying sustainability and providing policy and program advice to the governing body of the city.

Winrock International is a recognized leader in U.S. and international development. Inspired by its namesake Winthrop Rockefeller, Winrock’s mission is to empower the disadvantaged, increase economic opportunity and sustain natural resources. With 120 programs in 46 countries and decades of work in Arkansas, Winrock’s influence is felt daily across the globe.

“We have incredible talent in rural America, and I am proud and thankful that the U.S. Programs division of Winrock International has brought me into their team.”

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