Rick Inatome is an accomplished entrepreneur, investor, and education advocate whose career spans technology, private equity, and institutional leadership. Best known for his role in advancing technology adoption and expanding access to education, he has founded, scaled, and transformed organizations across multiple industries.

In the mid-1970s, Rick helped pioneer the introduction of personal computers to the broader public through the co-founding of Inacomp Computer Centers, which grew into a global technology integration company and later a Fortune 500, NYSE-listed enterprise. During the early evolution of the computer industry, he worked closely with leading innovators including Bill Gates and Steve Jobs, serving as chairman of Microsoft’s initial advisory board and as a member of Apple’s board of advisers. His contributions to the technology sector were later recognized with his induction into the Computer Hall of Fame.

In the years that followed, Rick increasingly focused his efforts on education, organizational transformation, and investment leadership. He played a key role in turning around American Speedy Printing, positioning the company as a national industry leader, and was part of the investment group that acquired and expanded Sylvan Learning Centers into the largest supplemental education provider in the United States. Under his leadership, Sylvan broadened its scope to include teacher training, computerized testing, distance learning, and other innovative educational services.

Rick’s commitment to education as a catalyst for unlocking human potential has remained central to his work. He has led initiatives aimed at improving learning outcomes through innovative tools, performance measures, and technology-enabled instruction. Since 2020, he has served as Chairman of the Board of Léman Manhattan Preparatory School. He has also chaired the Michigan Information Network and the Michigan Technology Council, and played a founding role in establishing the Michigan Virtual University, helping to advance digital learning at scale.

In parallel, Rick has founded and managed multiple private equity funds and served on numerous public and private boards. His leadership roles include Chief Executive Officer of ZapMe and Chairman and Managing Director of Mentor Capital Partners and Sterling Capital Partners. He is frequently sought after as a consultant, mentor, and public speaker, advising leaders across education, technology, and investment sectors.

Rick’s achievements have been widely recognized. He has been named Entrepreneur of the Year by the Harvard Graduate School of Business and Inc. Magazine, received the Albert Nelson Marquis Lifetime Achievement Award, and has been honored as a Distinguished Alumni of Michigan State University, which also awarded him the Financial Leadership Award from the Broad School of Business. He was named Michiganian of the Year by The Detroit News and received a knighthood from the Royal Order of Francis I.