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Nicco Mele
Venture Partner @ Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation | Business strategy & Media expertise
Nicco Mele is a prominent figure at the intersection of news, technology, and politics. Currently, he serves as a Venture Partner at the Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation, where he is involved in various initiatives aimed at supporting innovative solutions in journalism and civic engagement. He is also a board member for organizations such as the News Revenue Hub, City Bureau, Define American, and Recidiviz.1
Professional Background
Mele has an extensive background in media and technology. He was previously the Director of the Shorenstein Center on Media, Politics, and Public Policy at the Harvard Kennedy School from 2016 to 2019, focusing on sustainable business models for local journalism and addressing misinformation on social media platforms. Prior to that, he held the position of Senior Vice President and Deputy Publisher at the Los Angeles Times, where he managed digital revenue across various brands.1
In addition to his roles in media, Nicco co-founded Echo & Co, a digital consultancy firm, which he sold in 2014. His early career highlights include serving as the webmaster for Governor Howard Dean's 2004 presidential campaign, where he played a key role in leveraging technology for political fundraising.1
Publications and Contributions
Mele is also an accomplished author, having written several notable works including The End of Big: How The Digital Revolution Makes David The New Goliath, which became an international bestseller. His expertise extends to various publications focused on journalism and media economics.1
Community Engagement
Beyond his professional endeavors, Nicco co-founded the Massachusetts Poetry Festival and has been involved in cultural projects such as producing a documentary about poet W.S. Merwin. He actively participates in discussions about leadership and mental health through various platforms, including promoting his wife’s podcast and books on anxiety in leadership.12
In summary, Nicco Mele is a multifaceted leader whose work spans across journalism, technology, and community engagement, making significant contributions to both media practices and civic discourse.


