Christopher Lynch, Founder – Community Vitalization Council (CiViC 180)
Chris is co-founder of the Community Vitalization Council (CiViC 180) which creates, funds and manages programs to develop local business communities. CiViC 180 has expertise into business retention, entrepreneurship development, global business connections and viral marketing. It develops sustainable funding streams to support programs in under served communities.
From 2009 to 2012, Chris was Vice President at the Irvine Chamber of Commerce where he handled economic development and tourism promotion activities for the City of Irvine. He initiated an award winning economic development program that featured webinars, training, business plan competitions, business retention outreach and trade delegations. In 2012, he was the Santa Ana SBA District “Small Business Champion of the Year.” For tourism promotion, he oversaw the creation of an award winning website, social media strategies and tourism guides.
From 2004 to 2009, he was executive vice-president of the Santa Rosa Chamber of Commerce, where he was responsible for economic development and government affairs. He created a business plan competition as well as a virtual incubator.
Mr. Lynch was previously a US State Department Foreign Service Officer, specializing in helping US businesses with trade and investment issues overseas. He served at US Embassies in Germany, Spain, El Salvador, Chile and Colombia. His last position before retiring was as US Consul General to Hamburg, Germany from 1997- 2001.
He holds an undergraduate degree in international studies from Georgetown University and a Masters in Economics from Virginia Tech. Since 2005, Chris has been an adjunct professor of International Business at Golden Gate University. He speaks fluent German and Spanish.