Michael Belles

2024-2025 Obama Foundation USA Leader

Headshot of Michael Belles, 2024-2025 Obama Foundation USA Leader

Co-founder and Manager, Catalyze

Atlanta, Georgia

Michael Belles is the co-founder of Catalyze, which works to democratize access to capital, networks, and resources for entrepreneurs. In his role, he manages annual convenings for first-time fund managers, Catalyze’s Runway Fund, and cultivates external partnerships. He also developed the Innovative Finance Playbook, a digital resource that aims to make information surrounding innovative and non-traditional financing methods more accessible to a greater diversity of entrepreneurs. Before Catalyze, he held various roles in impact-focused investment organizations, including at a private equity investment firm focused on opportunity zones and a community development finance institution.

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Leaders

For emerging leaders who have demonstrated a commitment to advancing the common good.

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  • The Center
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Future water garden to honor Ann Dunham, be graced by Maya Lin sculpture

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  • Defending Democracy
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  • Barack Obama
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