معرفی
James Cheng is an Executive Lecturer at the University of Virginia, affiliated with the Department of Science, Technology, and Society within the School of Engineering and Applied Science. He teaches STS 2840: Entrepreneurial Finance and contributes to the development of the university's entrepreneurial ecosystem. With over 25 years of experience in technology entrepreneurship, investment, and state government leadership, he brings real-world expertise into the academic environment.
Education:
- BS in Computer Science, Old Dominion University, 1982
- MBA, Darden Graduate School of Business, University of Virginia, 1987
- JD, Georgetown University Law Center, 2002
James Cheng's professional focus lies at the intersection of technology, business, and policy. His work emphasizes supporting technology entrepreneurs, fostering innovation, and enhancing regional economic development. He is deeply involved in angel investing through CAV-Angels, a UVA alumni investment group, and advises multiple startups and economic development initiatives.
His experience spans founding and scaling a successful government IT contracting firm, serving as Virginia's Secretary of Commerce and Trade (2010–2014), and contributing to national and international trade and innovation policy. He holds several U.S. and Chinese patents in technology fields, reflecting his technical and entrepreneurial background.
Notable Recognitions:
- Fastest Growing Company in Virginia (1999)
- Inc 500’s #12 Fastest Growing Private Company of 1999
James Cheng actively mentors startups and advises PIE, the economic development arm of the Pamunkey Indian Tribe of Virginia. He serves on multiple nonprofit, for-profit, and social enterprise boards, demonstrating a strong commitment to community and economic advancement. While no formal publications are listed, his influence is evident through his teaching, investment activities, and policy engagement.
Labs, Teams, and Affiliations: He is Co-Founder and Co-Chair of CAV-Angels, a member of several angel investment and private equity groups, and engaged in statewide business policy circles. His work bridges academia, industry, and government to support entrepreneurial success.
