Destin Ortego

Executive Director

Destin Ortego champions entrepreneurship and innovation as Executive Director of Opportunity Machine, driving tech startup growth in Louisiana's Acadiana region. Under his leadership, OM has launched transformative programs including Innovate South, Tech Tank, Launch Academy, Emerging Tech Internships, and Builder Programs that connect founders with mentors, investors, and strategic resources, positioning Acadiana as an emerging technology hub. Companies supported by OM have collectively generated over $2 billion in economic impact for the Lafayette region through jobs created, capital raised, and new industry development.

His work expanding access to capital, talent, and market opportunities for tech startups has earned recognition including The Daily Advertiser's Top 20 Under 40, Silicon Bayou's 100 most influential figures in Louisiana's startup ecosystem, and Junior Achievement's Richard Baudoin Jr. "Friend of Business" honor.

Destin serves on the boards of Junior Achievement of Acadiana and the Lafayette Regional Technology Council. He holds both bachelor's and master's degrees from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette.

May 25, 2026

The Opportunity Machine: Powering Louisiana's Startup Boom — Destin Ortego

What happens when a former musician with degrees in graphic design and public relations becomes the executive director of one of Louisiana's most important startup engines? You get Destin Ortego — and a playbook that's helped founders raise $116M in venture capital and drive over $2 billion in economic impact since 2018. In this episode of The Deal Podcast, host Joshua Wilson and co-host Scott Shea sit down with Destin Ortego, Executive Director of Opportunity Machine, the Lafayette-based nonpro...

Guest: Destin Ortego

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