Carl Schramm Speaking Fee: $10,000 to $20,000

Carl J. Schramm is a distinguished economist, entrepreneur, and educator, renowned for his contributions to entrepreneurship, innovation, and economic growth. Born in 1946 in Syracuse, New York, he earned his B.S. in economics from Le Moyne College, followed by an M.S. and Ph.D. in economics from the University of Wisconsin, and a J.D. from Georgetown University Law Center. His academic journey laid the foundation for a multifaceted career that bridges economics, law, and entrepreneurship. Schramm's professional trajectory began at Johns Hopkins University, where he served for 15 years and founded the nation's first research center on healthcare finance. He later co-founded HCIA, Inc., a healthcare data analytics company, and Patient Choice Health Care, demonstrating his entrepreneurial acumen. His leadership extended to major corporations, including serving as executive vice president of Fortis (now Assurant) and president of its health insurance operations. In 2002, Schramm became president and CEO of the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation, the world's largest private funder of economic research related to growth and innovation. Under his leadership, the foundation expanded its global impact, initiating programs like Global Entrepreneurship Week and establishing the first charter school in the U.S. owned by a grant-making foundation. He also introduced the concept of "expeditionary economics," focusing on rebuilding economies in post-conflict regions. Since 2012, Schramm has been a University Professor at Syracuse University, a title held by only the 16th person in the institution's history. At Syracuse, he teaches entrepreneurship and innovation, continuing his commitment to education and research. His scholarly work includes several influential books, such as Burn the Business Plan, The Entrepreneurial Imperative, and Good Capitalism, Bad Capitalism, co-authored with William Baumol and Robert Litan. Beyond academia, Schramm serves on various boards and advisory committees, including the Templeton World Charity Foundation and the Government-University-Industry Research Roundtable of the National Academies of Sciences. His extensive experience and insights make him a sought-after speaker and advisor on topics related to entrepreneurship, innovation, and economic policy.