Meet the Founders

Check out the profiles on StartupGVL founders and be inspired by their stories. Warning: their enthusiasm and drive can be contagious! You may find yourself wanting to start a business after watching.

Learn about the DOERS 
Changing the World… from Greenville, South Carolina

Matt Gevaert

CEO AND CO-FOUNDER OF KIYATEC, INC.

Since immigrating to the United States 25 years ago, Canadian native Matt Gevaert has accomplished a lot. A master’s degree from Clemson University’s internationally renowned bioengineering program turned into a Ph.D, and grondbreaking cancer research. Then, in 2005, he founded KIYATEC and the growth that has resulted has been astounding. Gevaert says it’s a privilege to have Greenville as part of his story, and the support of the community has helped make KIAYTEC’s success possible.

Nicole Johnson

CO-OWNER, BOYD CYCLING

Nicole Johnson and her husband Boyd moved to Greenville because the weather and terrain were an ideal mix for professional cyclists. They stayed because they built a great life and found the resources to grow a successful business with a young daughter along for the ride. Passion, grit, and determination helped the couple excel, first in cycling and now in business. Paired with their unflinching optimism and a lot of local support, Boyd Cycling is expanding and thriving in Greenville.

RYAN JOHNSTON AND RYAN HEAFY

CO-FOUNDERS OF 6AMCITY

There’s no doubt the guys behind one of the fastest growing local media companies in the nation love Greenville. Suffice it to say “the Ryans” are dialed in. They are visible. They are involved. Even as their daily eblast, GVL Today, expanded into a nationwide enterprise, they kept the connection to their home base. They say the city has a cheerleading mentality and supports entrepreneurs who are moving HERE from somewhere else.

Dr. Nika White

WHITE CONSULTING

A Forbes Books featured author, podcaster, speaker, and consultant, Dr. Nika White works to maximize the effectiveness, potential, and capacity of people’s and organizations’ through organizational development, focusing specifically strategic and intentional efforts fostering diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging.

DAVID STEFANICH

CO-FOUNDER OF RYMEDI

Co-founder of health care tech company Rymedi, David Stefanich is running in six countries worldwide. But he always comes back to Greenville. Stefanich talks about why Greenville is a great place to live, work and raise a family.

ERIN MEHAGAN

FOUNDER, LIVILULANE

Erin Mehagan is a mom of three and founder of Livi Lu Lane. Her bra line has been featured on TODAY with Hoda & Jenna. Erin’s launch to success came through the #StartupGVL ecosystem, which supported her in empowering women to create the shape they want.