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DAVID NILSSEN

EO Seattle member since 2005, Global Board Director

David Nilssen is an entrepreneur driven by a passion for building a better future by unlocking the potential of entrepreneurs and small businesses worldwide. He sees his role as an entrepreneur as solving problems that help empower communities. He is particularly invested in supporting the growth and development of young professionals in emerging economies, and he believes that fostering a positive workplace culture is critical to any company’s success story.

Since 2005, David has been an active member of the Entrepreneurs' Organization (EO), ascending to EO’s Global Board as a Director in 2022 after holding many different local, regional global leadership positions in events, learning and chapter management. Throughout his EO journey, David's interest in knowledge-sharing propelled him toward several leadership positions aimed at improving member experience, including Learning Director for the U.S. West region, and Global Learning Committee Chair.

A practitioner of lifelong learning himself, David completed several of EO’s Executive Education programs, including those with Harvard Business School and London Business School. He is

credited with co-creating EO’s Global Speakers Academy and online Powerhouse Speakers Series, connecting members with other lifelong learners and global thought leaders to offer advanced training and inspiration.

David successfully launched several small businesses during his EO membership, while also investing in seed companies and startup businesses. He is the co-founder and CEO of Guidant Financial, a financial services company that helps new entrepreneurs access capital to buy or start their own businesses. In addition, he is co-founder and CEO of offshore recruitment company DOXA Talent, which connects business leaders with highly skilled and dedicated teams in developing economies outside the U.S. He was named the National Young Entrepreneur of the Year by the Small Business Administration, and a finalist for Ernst & Young’s (EY) Entrepreneur of the Year.

Raised in Seattle, Washington but now based in Boise, Idaho, David lives with his wife and their two daughters. He is a passionate enthusiast of the outdoors and enjoys cycling excursions, challenging hikes, and water sports with his family.