Uncommon Pairings

Innovation often sparks at the intersections where unlikely connections are made. This highly interactive session brings together founders, educators, technical experts, and ecosystem partners who may not typically cross paths. Participants will be paired with someone outside their usual circle to share who they are, what they do, and the stories that drive their work. Through these conversations, you’ll uncover surprising commonalities, gain fresh perspectives, and build connections you may not have expected. Come ready to talk, listen, and discover how “uncommon pairings” can open doors to new ideas and collaborations.

Debbie Irwin is the Executive Director of Lighthouse Network, a founder development organization that supports entrepreneurs by investing in their growth and connecting them with mentors, investors, and peers. She has worked with hundreds of founders at all stages, helping them navigate the challenges of building companies while keeping a focus on the people behind the business.

At Lighthouse, Debbie is leading the organization through its next chapter: expanding from a local accelerator into a national network, experimenting with new models of founder development, and exploring fresh ways to bring capital into early-stage ecosystems. Her work spans everything from designing programs and securing resources to building partnerships with investors, corporate partners, and community leaders.

Outside of the day-to-day, Debbie is passionate about making the entrepreneurial journey more sustainable and human-centered, and she brings that lens to every initiative she leads.