Bill Lickson

Bill Lickson is a veteran innovation ecosystem leader, educator, and advisor with over 25 years of experience spanning entrepreneurship, digital media, and strategic leadership. He currently teaches STEM entrepreneurship at the Jim Moran College of Entrepreneurship at Florida State University, where he guides students in building and launching scalable business models grounded in real-world commercialization. Bill also serves as an advisor to the Florida A&M University Office of Research, providing support in technology transfer, venture development, and industry partnerships.

Bill’s background includes launching and leading North Florida Innovation Labs, a $24 million high-tech incubator that provided wet/dry labs, fabrication space, and mentorship for deep-tech startups. Under his leadership, the lab secured over $3 million in competitive grants and established a national network of advisors, investors, and commercialization experts. He also previously served as Executive Director of Domi Station, Tallahassee’s leading startup incubator, where he doubled participation and built strong ties across higher ed, government, and private industry.

Bill has held senior roles at companies including EmotionTrac, where he led business development and fundraising for its AI-powered emotional engagement platform, and the Zimmerman Agency (Omnicom), where he developed digital strategy for national brands. As a longtime media strategist, he has advised clients across a wide spectrum of industries.

An active mentor and public speaker, Bill chairs and serves on several boards, including the EVLC (Economic Vitality Leadership Council), AERO (Alliance of Entrepreneur Resource Organizations), Domi Station, and Choose Tallahassee. He has spoken at events for InBIA, the Florida League of Cities, and national startup conferences, and is known for his practical insights at the intersection of innovation, marketing, and leadership.