Cara Turano is passionate about entrepreneurship as a wealth-building avenue and a driver for community-building. She has spent over 20 years in the startup and innovation space, starting her career at a tech startup as a crash course in entrepreneurship. Since joining OEN in 2022, the organization has found its place as a statewide organization supporting entrepreneurs seeking venture capital with a focus on high-growth, innovative, traded-sector businesses in every county across Oregon. Cara serves on the PPS Bond Accountability Committee and is the immediate past chair, she is an advisor on the Portland Seed Fund Intrepid Oregon Fund, she is a sustaining member of the Junior League of Portland, on the Governance Committee for the Association of Junior Leagues International, and a board member of the Oregon Business Academy and CEDO. She was recognized as a PBJ 2025 Woman of Influence. Outside of work, Cara is an avid runner, skier, reader, and traveler who loves spending time with her husband, adult children, nieces, nephews, and senior chihuahua.