Saif Ishoof

Saif Ishoof is a visionary builder, operator, and strategist at the intersection of innovation, venture, and impact. Twice named South Florida’s Most Innovative CEO, he has been a driving force behind Miami’s rise as America’s fastest-growing capital and technology hub. A sought-after advisor, investor, and board member, Saif works with venture-backed startups, private equity firms, and Fortune 500 companies to scale growth, attract capital, and forge strategic partnerships. He is a Presidential Leadership Scholar and a German Marshall Fund Fellow, recognized for bridging the worlds of capital, technology, and talent. As the founder of Lab22c, Saif leads a firm specializing in high-impact advisory & operational services for founders, funds, institutions, and family offices. His work spans strategic partnerships, go-to-Market, office launches, human capital development, and social impact, helping leaders & organizations navigate disruption and seize new opportunities. In addition to his role in venture and technology, Saif has been a leader in positioning South Florida as a hub for defense tech and dual-use technology, helping to connect innovators with public sector opportunities at the intersection of national security and emerging tech. As Senior Advisor for Innovation & Technology to City of Miami Mayor Francis Suarez, Saif co-founded Venture Miami, driving the city’s evolution into a global startup and investment powerhouse. Prior to that, he was the founding Executive Director of City Year Miami, scaling civic impact at the intersection of education and innovation. A proud son of Miami, Saif earned his Bachelor’s in Foreign Service from Georgetown University and his Juris Doctor from the University of Miami.