If you're looking for a dynamic and inspiring speaker for your next event, look no further than Natalia Olson-Urtecho. A powerhouse in innovation, smart cities, entrepreneurship, and sustainable infrastructure, Natalia brings more than 20 years of global experience spanning the U.S., Latin America, Europe, and Asia. Currently serving as the Government Innovation & Growth Director at IDEADED, she is a serial entrepreneur and expert in venture capital, digital transformation, blockchain, government contracting, and environmental planning. With a career dedicated to maximising technological advancements for the greater good, Natalia is a leading voice in creating resilient infrastructure, empowering entrepreneurs, and building smart, healthy cities and regions.
Natalia’s leadership experience is unparalleled. As a former Regional Administrator for the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), she was a key figure in the Obama administration, overseeing 180 SBA offices and managing over $34 billion in federal contracts, $8 billion in small business loans, and $2 billion in grants annually. She was also appointed to the U.S. Innovation Advisory Board to advise Congress and the White House on competitiveness and innovation. Beyond government roles, Natalia has served on multiple high-profile boards, including KEI Cities, RepScan, Plug and Play Tech Center, and the Silicon Valley Forum, where she fosters global collaboration in technology and entrepreneurship.
Her extensive expertise has earned her numerous accolades, including being recognised as a “Latina Powerhouse” in Maryland and one of the Delaware Valley’s Most Influential Latinos. She has also been honoured with the Philadelphia Business Journal’s Minority Business Leader Award and the Women of Distinction Award for her contributions to sustainable infrastructure and the green economy. A multilingual globetrotter who has lived in seven countries, Natalia brings a unique, cross-cultural perspective to her work, helping organisations and cities navigate the complexities of economic development and innovation.
When Natalia takes the stage, she delivers engaging, insightful, and actionable speeches tailored to her audience. Whether speaking on smart cities, disruptive technologies, economic empowerment, or sustainable infrastructure, she inspires individuals and organisations to think big, innovate, and drive change. If you want to bring an exceptional speaker to your event—one who has shaped global policies, advised governments, and helped businesses scale—hire Natalia today. Your audience will leave empowered, informed, and ready to embrace the future.
