Sara Schmitt, Chief Operating Officer and co-founder of Adro, a New York-based technology company, has been selected to join the Nasdaq Entrepreneurial Center's Milestone Makers Fall 2024 cohort. This prestigious program supports founders building companies aligned with the United Nations' 17 sustainable development goals, offering participants individualized mentorship and resources over a 12-week period.
Adro, dedicated to providing access to checking, savings, and credit for international students and workers moving to the United States, stands to benefit significantly from Schmitt's participation in this program. The selection underscores the company's growing influence in the financial technology sector and its commitment to addressing the unique financial challenges faced by newcomers to the US.
Schmitt expressed her enthusiasm for the opportunity, stating, "It's such an honor to have this opportunity to learn and work alongside other early and mid-stage founders that are focused on scaling their companies. The Nasdaq network has incredible reach, and the depth of their experience is invaluable in guiding founders to become better leaders."
The Milestone Makers program culminates in a graduation ceremony held at Times Square in New York City, where participants will be featured on the Nasdaq building. This high-profile exposure could potentially boost Adro's visibility and credibility in the financial technology industry.
Schmitt brings a diverse background to her role at Adro, including nearly a decade of experience at Epic, an MBA from Cornell University, and a stint at Amazon before co-founding Adro with Amarildo Gjondrekaj and Kevin DeArmond. Her selection for the Milestone Makers program is a testament to her leadership and the potential impact of Adro's mission.
Adro's recent launch of no-fee checking, savings, and credit card products for internationals moving to the US aligns with the company's goal of providing financial access and support to those transitioning to life in America. This initiative addresses a significant gap in the financial services market, potentially impacting thousands of international students and workers who often face barriers in accessing traditional banking services.
The company's participation in the Milestone Makers program could accelerate its growth and enhance its ability to serve its target market. As Adro continues to develop and refine its financial products, the mentorship and resources provided by the Nasdaq Entrepreneurial Center could prove invaluable in scaling the company's operations and expanding its reach.
Furthermore, Adro's focus on providing financial services to internationals aligns with broader trends in global mobility and the increasing internationalization of education and work. By addressing the unique needs of this demographic, Adro is positioning itself at the intersection of fintech and international education, potentially influencing how financial institutions approach serving diverse, globally mobile populations.
The selection of Schmitt for the Milestone Makers program also highlights the growing recognition of female leadership in the technology and financial sectors. As a co-founder and COO, Schmitt's participation in this high-profile program could inspire other women entrepreneurs in these traditionally male-dominated fields.
As Adro continues to grow and develop its services, the insights and connections gained through the Milestone Makers program could play a crucial role in shaping the company's future strategies and impact on the financial services landscape for international students and workers in the United States.
