Dilawar Syed

Deputy Administrator, U. S. Small Business Administration (2023-2024); Special Representative, State Department (2022-2023); Entrepreneur; Faculty and Policy Advisor, The University of Texas at Austin As a technology and AI entrepreneur, Dilawar Syed brought real-world experiences in building ventures to his Cabinet role at the U. S. Small Business Administration. He is a leading voice on public policies to expand entrepreneurship, drive small business growth, and bolster America’s economic competitiveness. Now, as faculty and senior economic policy advisor at The University of Texas at Austin, Syed is leading a national dialogue on the public policies needed to strengthen U. S. business competitiveness.

Dilawar Syed served as a Cabinet official at the U. S. Small Business Administration and as Special Envoy for Commercial Affairs at the State Department. From building an AI venture in Silicon Valley to leading federal disaster recovery in hurricane-struck communities and advocating for U. S. businesses on the global stage as America’s top commercial diplomat—Syed brings a rare, real-world perspective to leadership and public service. An immigrant who rose to the highest levels of the U. S. government, he offers a compelling model of purpose-driven leadership, inclusive economic policy, and coalition-building across sectors.

His talks blend actionable insights with powerful personal stories—whether scaling a startup that led to a blockbuster IPO, breaking barriers as a trailblazing official, or advancing bold policies to democratize entrepreneurship in overlooked communities. Syed challenges audiences to lead with grit, conviction, and a commitment to lasting impact. In an era defined by AI transformation, shifting trade dynamics, and rising global competition, how can the U. S. sharpen its economic edge? Drawing on his experience as a tech entrepreneur, a former Cabinet official at the U. S. Small Business Administration, and the lead commercial diplomat at the State Department, Dilawar offers a forward-looking blueprint to boost American competitiveness—through smarter trade policy, resilient supply chains, and a bold focus on democratizing innovation and entrepreneurship. A timely call to action for business and policy leaders alike.