Our Team

Principal Consultant
Kate Hoy, Principal Consultant
Federal R&D Funding Strategist
Email: kate@tributaryinsights.com
Summary of Qualifications
Kate has been working with small businesses for over three decades as they navigate business development challenges. Since 2022 alone she has personally guided more than 175 pre-revenue innovators through federal research and development (R&D) funding pathways, resulting in more than $40 million in awards. As Program Director of the SBA FAST Grant-funded ARC WA program, she reached over 2,500 resource providers and innovators with education, resource connections, and personalized assistance through the eleven SBIR programs. Kate has provided intensive Phase 0 assistance to small businesses seeking Department of Energy SBIR Phase 1 funding and currently provides guidance on the Department of Defense SBIR program through the Washington APEX Accelerator. She leads the TI Pathways to Commercialization Strategy team as they create viable funding avenues for our small businesses creating cutting edge technology. For the past 2 years Kate has delivered in person workshops for regional economic development organizations seeking to attract and retain federal R&D funding in their regions.

Lead Technical Advisor
Elliot Hoy, Lead Technical Advisor
MSc.
Email: elliot@tributaryinsights.com
Summary of Qualifications
With 10 years in the environmental sector, Elliot has worked with the Bureau of Land Management’s AML program on mine reclamation, modeled sediment transport in rivers in Northeast India, and supported SBIR clients in securing over $1 million. He holds a Master’s degree in Water Management and ia deep background in IT. Elliot works directly with our clients as they develop proposals and dial in their messaging.
Robert Miller
IT Specialist
Summary of Qualifications
Robert Miller, an IT professional with over 15 years of experience in business management, cybersecurity, and network infrastructure, Robert specializes in providing secure, scalable solutions that meet NIST 800 standards.
Dr. Marielle Minere
Grant Writer
Summary of Qualifications
Marielle Minere is a dedicated neuroscientist specializing in brain function and cognitive research, with expertise in areas such as neuroplasticity and neural networks. She is also an experienced grant writer with over six years of expertise in the medical field, passionate about advancing our understanding of the human mind to drive innovations in healthcare and beyond.
Rachael Sutherland
Academic Expert
Summary of Qualifications
Rachael holds a Master’s degree in Education and has six years of experience in academia at a leading university. She also has extensive expertise in grant writing and review, having worked for several years with the Bureau of Education’s SBIR program. Her work focuses on funding strategies and educational program development.
Abe Zepeda
Networking and Security Expert
Summary of Qualifications
Abe Zepeda is a Networking and Security expert with over eight years of experience in IT. Currently a Systems Engineer III at Yavapai County, he has advanced through multiple roles over nearly twelve years. With a strong background in network administration, cybersecurity, and IT support, he has also worked at Prescott Unified School District and BOLT Internet, specializing in securing and optimizing complex systems.
David Flint
Geo Chemist
Summary of Qualifications
David Flint is a geochemist and certified geologist with a decade of experience in dam construction, water quality, mining restoration, and ArcGIS mapping. Working for a nationwide contracting firm, he specializes in regulatory compliance and geology-related feasibility, providing data-driven solutions for complex environmental and infrastructure projects.
Angelo Skyhawk
Accountant
Summary of Qualifications
Angelo Skyhawk is a finance professional with over six years of experience in commercial banking, credit analysis, and budget regulation. He has worked with major financial institutions, focusing on SBA lending, risk assessment, and regulatory compliance. His expertise includes managing complex financial projects and ensuring adherence to industry standards.
Jeannet Santiago
Market Analysis
Investor Relations
Summary of Qualifications
Jeannet Santiago is a strategic business development expert specializing in market research and government contract acquisition. With over a decade of experience helping innovators secure private capital, she translates complex data into actionable strategies. Bilingual in English and Spanish, she leverages her advisory roles to stay ahead of market trends and opportunities.
IP Attorney
COMING SOON!
Summary of Qualifications
Coming Soon
