CED Welcomes New CEO, Enters Next Phase of Growth
DURHAM, N.C. — [Nov 18, 2025] — The Center for Entrepreneurial Development (CED), the region’s longest-standing network supporting high-growth entrepreneurs, today announced the appointment of Alex Bloom as its next CEO, effective January 1, 2026. Alex is a three-time startup CEO with deep experience scaling companies, leading teams, raising capital, and navigating the realities of growth from inception to exit. He steps into the role at a defining moment in CED’s evolution toward a founder-led future.
Alex brings more than 30 years of entrepreneurial experience across technology sectors and organizations at every stage. He’s advised dozens of early-stage teams and served as a mentor and operator within the Triangle ecosystem since moving here in 2006. His track record reflects the very qualities CED has been building toward: deep knowledge about the entrepreneurial journey, a commitment to community, and a clear understanding of what the Triangle startup ecosystem needs.
Alex brings a depth of experience that spans the full startup picture—having built and operated inside companies both big and small, successful and scrappy. From scaling to selling, he understands firsthand the realities founders and operators face at every stage.
“Alex represents the future of CED,” said Scott Uknes, Co-Chair of CED’s Board of Directors. “As a three-time startup CEO, he brings real world experience and a deep commitment to the entrepreneurial ecosystem. This leadership transition is a natural next step in CED’s evolution to scale our impact within the Triangle ecosystem.”
The leadership transition follows five years of transformation under outgoing CEO Kelly Rowell, who led the evolution of CED into a platform where founders lead from the inside out. During her tenure, CED strengthened its operational model, launched the FORGE, ACCELERATE, and CONNECT communities, elevated founder voices, and positioned CED to scale its impact throughout the region.
Kelly emphasized that the shift in leadership is intentional and timely:
“For years, my vision has been to build a place where founders drive the mission, shape the strategy, and influence the work at every step. We’ve reached that moment. Bringing in someone with Alex’s experience is exactly where CED should be,” said Rowell. “This transition signals strength, CED is thriving, growing, and ready for its next chapter.”
Alex shared his excitement to lead CED into its next phase:
“Having been involved in the CED community for 15+ years, I understand and respect the legacy I’m stepping into. I’m honored to have the opportunity to build on the team’s impressive work and momentum” said Alex. “I look forward to engaging with great companies and founders. With the right support, connections, and commitment to founder success, we can help this region become the most vibrant startup community in the country.”
The Executive Committee of the CED Board of Directors led a closed search to source the most qualified candidates with proven A experience, a strong track record of building companies, and a passion for strengthening the Triangle’s innovation economy.
Please join CED in congratulating Kelly Rowell for her extraordinary efforts in repositioning the organization and evolving the team, and welcoming Alex Bloom as the next leader championing homegrown innovation in the Triangle for years to come.
For media inquiries, please contact Katelin Wheeler at kwheeler@cednc.org.
