Who we are
Eraina & Jessie are two tech founders who are passionate about elevating women in this space. We created Innovate & Invest in 2025 to connect women tech founders with tech investors! We're all about empowering women in tech to thrive and succeed.
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Founder
Jessie Zaylía is an experienced business leader and attorney. She is the Founder/CEO of twrk, driving innovation in job search technology through AI and swipe technology.
She took 2nd place in StartupGrind’s Silicon Valley Pitch Battle against multiple companies with millions in ARR. Jessie has been featured in Entrepreneur.com, in CSQ (C-Suite Quarterly), and on the Silicon Valley Impact podcast.
A proud USD Law graduate and former managing partner/COO of a large California law firm, she has a passion for employees and helping organizations reduce turnover through adaption and innovation. Outside of work, Jessie is an artist, stand-up comedian (now and again), traveler, and language enthusiast.
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Co-Founder
Eraina Ferguson is a dynamic leader, 7-time TEDx Curator, and founder of Listen to Her, an EdTech platform using AI to connect women speakers with opportunities.
With 12+ years in social marketing and product strategy at Meta and Udacity, she excels in brand development and business growth.
She is a Yale graduate, and her passion for tech began at a hackathon, inspiring her to build tools that empower women in public speaking. Through TEDx events and digital innovation, Eraina amplifies voices, fosters collaboration, and drives opportunities for women in tech and beyond.
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Chief Operations Officer
Emily Latour has led high performing teams across a range of complex industries including high-tech, aerospace and defense, media and entertainment, telco, oil and gas, and State and Local government. She drives tangible business outcomes with over 20 years of proven strategy and consulting experience.
Emily’s wealth of expertise is helping to take Innovate & Invest to the next level, and we’re lucky to have her on board!