Pasco EDC
The SMARTstart Staff
Daniel Mitchell, EDP 
SMARTstart Program Director
Dan champions the SMARTstart program, assisting start-up businesses and managing three incubator locations across Pasco County. He works directly with entrepreneurs to help them develop their ideas into thriving realities from concept to launch. Dan holds a B.S. in Business Management with a concentration in Entrepreneurship, as well as his Certified Financial Planner accreditation.
.png)
Jackie Eden
SMARTstart Program Coordinator II
Jackie runs the West Entrepreneur Center where small business entrepreneurs can gain an edge and grow. She assists with the CO.STARTERS Program where businesses can collaborate and make meaningful connections that can improve their success. Jackie is also responsible for the Microloan Program. Jackie holds an MBA from Saint Leo University, a BS with a double major in Marketing and Management from the University of South Florida, and an AA degree from Hillsborough Community College. She is also a Certified Career Services Professional and a Certified Global Career Development Facilitator.
Ashlee Underdown
SMARTstart Program Coordinator
Ashlee runs the SMARTstart @ The Grove Entrepreneur Center and works with a variety of members who have private offices or co-working space at the facility. She assists the Program Director with member communications and program planning. Ashlee holds an Associates of Art degree from Pasco-Hernando State College and is currently continuing her education to achieve a B.A. in Business Organization Administration.
Kiana Acosta
SMARTstart Program Assistant
Kiana runs the East Pasco Entrepreneur Center. As a Program Assistant, Kiana supports the growth and development of new food entrepreneurs that join the SMARTstart program, and established businesses who want to utilize the tools and resources our program offers. With prior experience in restaurant management, sales, and administrative support, she brings a well-rounded skillset to the organization. By leveraging her diverse experience, she hopes to make a positive impact on the success of the entrepreneurs within the program and throughout Pasco County.
Becky Martin
Special Program Assistant
Becky provides administrative support for the Pasco EDC team at various levels. She coordinates the Pasco Microloan Program where she helps business owners complete their applications, review submissions, and prepare informational packets for the Microloan review committee. Prior to joining Pasco EDC, Becky worked for the Department of Health and The Greater Hernando County Chamber of Commerce. She is also a graduate of Leadership Hernando 2009.