In 2020, Jesse Fripp returned to his Asheville roots to drive regional revitalization. At Hatch, he’s been instrumental in fostering community and supporting high-potential founders, joining the Board to leverage his expertise in strategy and capital to build a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Returning to his roots, Jesse Fripp made a pivotal decision in 2020 to return to Asheville, his hometown, after leaving in 1995. With deep family ties in Southern Appalachia, Jesse was drawn back by a desire to contribute to the region’s economic transformation and revitalization. His journey with Hatch began through a connection with Chris Beuhler at The Collider, leading to an introduction to George Glackin.
Jesse’s initial involvement with Hatch came during a critical period as the community emerged from COVID-19. He participated in the Co-working space and played a key role in launching the Capital Roundtable and Capital Marketplace, initiatives designed to support high-potential founders in the region.
After six months in an advisory role, Jesse joined the Board with aspirations to leverage his expertise in strategy, catalytic capital, and institutional fundraising to help realize Hatch’s vision of a regional ecosystem driven by entrepreneurs. He emphasized that Hatch is not about transactional relationships but about building a supportive, inclusive community for visionary doers.
A typical workday at Hatch defies definition as the Board and team, composed of active entrepreneurs, is constantly changing. Jesse values the community and connection at Hatch, focusing on providing a safe space for entrepreneurs to find guidance and support, even offering tough love when necessary.
During his career, Jesse has been inspired by many mentors who showed personal courage and dedication to their cause. In his early career, he was involved in economic reconstruction in post-Soviet Eastern Europe and the Balkan Wars, and he played pivotal roles in establishing non-bank finance companies. These experiences taught him the significance of having mentors who believe in you and lead by example.
At Hatch, Jesse stays organized and productive by keeping commitments, fostering community, and seeking opportunities to support his peers. He firmly believes that value is built and sustained through long-term, trust-based relationships.
His long-term career goal is to make Western North Carolina and Southern Appalachia a hub for innovation, entrepreneurship, and sustainability.