Claudia Duran serves as Regional Managing Director of North America and Managing Director at Endeavor Miami, the first U.S. affiliate of the global Endeavor network supporting high-impact entrepreneurs. In her dual role, Claudia helps scale companies that drive economic growth, innovation, and job creation across Miami and the broader North American region. With a dynamic background spanning finance, nonprofits, and entrepreneurship support, she brings a cross-sector lens to her leadership—empowering founders with the capital, mentorship, and global network they need to thrive and pay it forward.
For those unfamiliar, what is Endeavor Miami, and how does it support entrepreneurs in the region?
Endeavor Miami is part of a global network that supports high-impact entrepreneurs, those with the potential to scale, multiply their impact, and transform their communities. We identify, mentor, and accelerate the growth of these exceptional founders through strategic guidance, access to capital, global markets, talent, and a community of peers. Our goal is to help them build successful companies and become role models and ecosystem builders.
You’ve worked with dozens of innovative founders—what traits set Endeavor entrepreneurs apart from the rest?
Endeavor Entrepreneurs think big, but they also execute relentlessly. They are purpose-driven, resilient, and open to learning. They care deeply about building something that lasts, not just for their own gain but for the good of their teams, their industries, and their countries. They’re also generous with their time, always paying it forward by mentoring and inspiring the next generation of founders.
Miami is becoming a global hub for startups and innovation. What do you think is fueling this momentum, and how does Endeavor fit into the ecosystem?
Miami’s momentum is being fueled by its diversity, its strategic location as a bridge between the U.S. and Latin America, and the incredible talent and energy of its people. We’ve seen a wave of founders, investors, and tech leaders recognizing the city’s potential. Endeavor plays a unique role by supporting the scale-up stage—helping companies go from early traction to true global scale, while building an inclusive, founder-first ecosystem.
How does Endeavor help companies go from local success stories to globally scalable businesses?
We surround entrepreneurs with the right support at the right time—matching them with world-class mentors, connecting them with investors who understand scale, and creating opportunities for global exposure. Our founders benefit from a network of over 1000 companies in more than 40 markets, allowing them to learn from peers, open doors abroad, and think beyond their borders.
What trends are you seeing in Miami’s entrepreneurial community right now—any specific industries or themes gaining traction?
We’re seeing a lot of movement in fintech, healthtech, climate solutions, and logistics—industries that reflect both global needs and regional strengths. There’s also a strong push around impact-driven entrepreneurship, with founders building solutions that prioritize both profitability and purpose. It’s exciting to see Miami entrepreneurs leading with values as much as vision
You’ve had a dynamic career across finance, nonprofits, and now entrepreneurship support, how has that shaped your leadership style at Endeavor Miami?
It’s taught me to lead with empathy, adaptability, authenticity, and a long-term perspective. I’ve seen how different sectors define success, and at Endeavor, I try to bring the best of those worlds together, rigor from finance, mission from nonprofits, and agility and optimism from the startup world. Above all, I lead by actively listening to entrepreneurs and trusting in their ability to drive change and become conscious leaders themselves.
What advice would you give to founders navigating today’s uncertain economic environment?
Focus on what you can control: your product, your team, and your values. Be disciplined with your runway, but don’t stop innovating. The most resilient companies are built in tough times. And remember: community is a superpower. Listen to your customers and lean on your networks, your mentors, and always be humble to ask for help.
What do you see as the biggest challenges holding back founders in Miami—and how can they overcome them?
Access to smart capital at the scale-up stage continues to be a hurdle. We also need more patient, risk-taking investors who understand the long-term game. Founders can overcome this by being more vulnerable and asking for help with their challenges. Telling their stories better, building strategic partnerships, and tapping into global networks like Endeavor’s to unlock growth opportunities.
What’s next for Endeavor Miami in 2025? Any big plans or initiatives on the horizon?
Yes—we’re doubling down on building cross-border connectivity through the Endeavor ImpactTech Initiative, investing in underrepresented founders, as well as scaleup founders by elevating the Miami entrepreneurial ecosystem on the global stage. We’re also hosting our Endeavor Summit in October, focused on redefining what entrepreneurial success looks like in today’s world. Stay tuned!
If you could give one piece of advice to your younger self, what would it be?
Don’t rush. Trust the process, and trust yourself. Every experience, good or bad, is shaping the leader you’re becoming. Be brave, be vulnerable, stay kind, and remember: the impact you leave behind matters more than any title you’ll ever have.
