Biography
Marco Melero, BS (Economics) is an emerging analyst and business development professional with 2+ years of experience in economic development. He has fostered growth in the biosciences and retail sectors by analyzing datasets, identifying key insights, and formulating actionable recommendations.
Marco served as the administrator for the BioDistrict New Orleans, an economic development district (EDD), supporting the EDD through scheduling and facilitating meetings, state reporting, document procurement, and registrations to support the growth of the district as part of a $70MM tax increment financing with the City of New Orleans.
Marco's financial acumen extends to reducing investment risk on a $1.4MM EDA grant for the construction of biosciences facilities through a comprehensive analysis of potential assets. Additionally, his financial analysis on the economic impact of a greenspace led to $100K raised for further study and sustainable development. In the retail sector, Marco conducted market and consumer analysis, helping a local retail business open a brick-and-mortar store and exceed first quarter sales goals by $20K.
He has presented findings to diverse audiences, including a state legislative caucus, city council members, and numerous businesses. Leading market research projects across three sectors (retirement communities, electric vehicles, and vertical farming), Marco provided strategic insights to guide senior management decisions. His tenure at the New Orleans Business Alliance has shaped his perspective, focusing on economic development through a sustainable and equitable lens.
Marco is the Venture Capital Analyst on the Tulane Ventures team at the Tulane University Innovation Institute, a seed fund focused on New Orleans tech-enabled startups in health/medical, energy, and artificial intelligence/big data industries. As a Tulane University economics graduate and with his complementary experience in economic development, Marco is committed to fostering the growth of both local startups and the broader regional economy.
