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Claire Sbanotto is the Director of Community Programs with OU's Institute for the Creation of Economic Wealth (I-CCEW). She partners with entrepreneurs tackling high-impact, real-world problems—driving innovative solutions across Oklahoma and beyond. Before joining I-CCEW, Claire spent years with Tulsa Public Schools as a teacher, project manager, and innovation strategy partner. She holds a Doctorate in Education & Policy Studies from The University of Oklahoma.

Session Description:
Got an idea but not sure where to take it? Claire Sbanotto from OU's I-CCEW is holding free office hours at Gradient. Book a 30-minute session to work through ideation challenges, explore design thinking frameworks, or get honest feedback on your entrepreneurial direction.

Ray Fitzgerald serves as Assistant Director of Loan Programs at the Tulsa Economic Development Corporation (TEDC Creative Capital), where he combines deep financial expertise with a commitment to community impact. A former U.S. Marine Corps Sergeant and University of Tulsa graduate in Finance, Ray brings discipline and insight to every conversation. At TEDC, he works to expand access to capital and support inclusive economic growth across Tulsa.

Session Description:
‍Need help with financial projections? Exploring loan options? Wondering how to position your business for funding? Ray Fitzgerald has spent his career helping entrepreneurs build strong financial foundations. Book a free 30-minute session and get practical guidance from someone who knows the lending landscape inside and out.

Kate Sullivan is an experienced attorney and registered patent practitioner specializing in U.S. intellectual property and business law. A recognized leader in Tulsa's entrepreneurial ecosystem, Kate is passionate about helping innovators protect their ideas and navigate complex legal terrain. She serves on the boards of Modus, Gradient, the Oklahoma Venture Forum, and the Oklahoma Bar Association Intellectual Property Section, and directs Startup Grind Tulsa.

Session Description:
Protecting your ideas shouldn't feel overwhelming. Kate Sullivan from Black Dog Law is offering free office hours at Gradient to answer your questions on intellectual property, patents, trademarks, and business law. Entrepreneurs, founders, and creators welcome.

Stephen Knight is an advisor with the Oklahoma Small Business Development Center (OK SBDC), a trusted resource for entrepreneurs at every stage—from first idea to growth phase. Stephen specializes in helping founders understand where to start, how to plan, and what resources are available to support their journey. His practical, no-nonsense approach has guided countless Tulsa entrepreneurs through the early challenges of building a business.

Session Description:
Not sure where to start? Stephen Knight from the OK SBDC helps aspiring entrepreneurs, side-hustlers, and early-stage founders figure out their next move. Book a free 30-minute session to talk through business planning, funding options, or how to avoid the mistakes that trip up most new businesses.

Jake Butts is an attorney, litigator, and partner at Kingsley & Hird PLLC, where he advises founders and business owners on the legal side of growing and protecting their companies. Jake specializes in the practical, everyday legal decisions that shape a business—from entity formation and operating agreements to contracts, hiring, and compliance as companies scale. When he's not working on a case, you can find him out supporting Tulsa's local music scene.

Session Description:
Patents and trademarks aren't the only legal questions founders face. Jake Butts covers the rest—entity structure, operating agreements, contracts, hiring considerations, and the compliance issues that show up as you scale. Book a free 30-minute session and get real answers in plain language.