Guerra is the founder of the Altus, a venture studio that builds scaleable investable companies in healthcare, fintech and edtech led by underpresented founders. His immigrant father’s bumpy healthcare journey fuels his passion for innovations for patients and the dedicated workers in clinics, hospitals, and other facilities.

As a young entrepreneur, Guerra chose to give back to his community as chairperson of the board of directors Madison’s Community Development Authority from 2011 to 2019. This agency champions redevelopment efforts for the city and oversees the Section 8 federal housing program and the city’s public housing program that serves 1,800 people. Guerra has participated in national Hispanic efforts including a program at Stanford University. He currently serves on the board of directors for the Latino Professional Association of Greater Madison, Inc.

Prior to starting Altus, Guerra worked in the web technologies and software development industry.

Co-Founder

Salvador is a dedicated community leader with a focus on education and Latino/a issues. Currently he serves as a senior policy advisor for the University of Wisconsin system, and was a founding member of the Latino Education Council of Dane County.

Syed Abbas serves as the Deputy Legislative Director for the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS). Prior to joining DHS, he was the Director of Education and Training at Slipstream, where he established a clear vision for the organization’s educational and training portfolio. His work focused on statewide workforce planning, equity and inclusion, and developing strategic partnerships with local nonprofits, municipalities, and the energy sector under President Biden’s Infrastructure and Inflation Reduction Acts.

Previously, Syed was the President and Alder of the Madison Common Council, where he advocated for and developed key policies related to affordable housing, environmental sustainability, and public safety.

Before entering state service, he served on the board of the United States Green Building Council and held positions on various state and city committees. A committed servant leader, Syed also contributes to his community as a board member of the River Food Pantry and Adelante.

In recognition of his contributions, Syed received the 2021 Asian American most Influential Leaders Award from Madison 365.

Syed holds two master’s degrees: one in Journalism and the other in Public Policy and Human Development from Maastricht University in the Netherlands.

Carl is VP for Government Relations and Policy, One City Schools. Carl joined One City Schools in late 2023 to advance innovative public education. A seasoned leader in policy and education, he previously served as Senior Inclusive Excellence Officer for the Universities of Wisconsin and has held key roles in state/county government, UW-Madison, and the U.S. Senate.