Creighton Taylor

Creighton Taylor is a Lecturer in the Finance area at the Paul Merage School of Business, University of California, Irvine. He teaches in the Master of Innovation and Entrepreneurship program and brings extensive real-world experience from finance, venture capital, and startup leadership to his academic role.

Education:

• Harvard University – MBA in General Business Administration (May 2014)
• Emory University – BA in Music and BBA in Business Administration (May 2008)

Professional Credentials:

• Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA)
• Series 7, Series 66, and CAIA Level I passed

His research and teaching focus on entrepreneurship, product management, artificial intelligence, and career development. Drawing from his journey across institutional finance and early-stage startups, he emphasizes hands-on learning and innovation. His work explores how AI agents can empower entrepreneurs and transform product development.

Creighton has founded or co-founded multiple ventures, including Guided Compass (a B2B career development app), HackHive (an HR startup), Fitspot (a fitness tech platform), and Emmasson (a failed venture that provided critical entrepreneurial lessons). He has also consulted for AI and crypto startups, served as a fractional CFO, and supported fundraising for early-stage companies.

Scientific Awards:

• No formal scientific awards listed.

He mentors students through teaching and real-world engagement, though no formal list of advisees is available. Creighton remains actively involved in startup experimentation, consulting, and investing, while contributing practical insights to the next generation of innovators.