About Us

Albert Behr is a globally recognized innovator and leader in technology commercialization, having played a pivotal role in two major acquisitions by Microsoft and Symantec. With over 30 years of experience in high-level corporate development, strategic marketing, and venture investing, Albert has built and scaled multiple high-growth technology companies.

As the founder of Behr & Associates, he has spent the past 25 years driving startup success through strategic partnerships, licensing, and commercialization. His deep industry relationships and global network position Connected Capital to source and scale the most promising early-stage tech startups.

Darian Harris is a seasoned entrepreneur and growth strategist, passionate about helping startups scale through strategic investments and go-to-market acceleration. Before co-founding Connected Capital, Darian led Fuel Accelerator, where he worked with hundreds of startups to refine their sales, partnerships, and investor readiness.

His career includes time as a Merchant at Walmart, managing multi-billion-dollar product categories, and a strategic role at The Harvest Group, helping brands optimize their market positioning. With deep expertise in investment strategy and revenue acceleration, Darian ensures Connected Capital’s portfolio companies are positioned for high-growth and successful exits.

Samantha Trojanowski brings over a decade of experience at the intersection of national defense, technology innovation, and government policy. Prior to joining SWMAC, she spent six years with the DoD’s leading innovation organizations—the National Security Innovation Network (NSIN) and the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU). In her role as Regional Engagement Principal, she oversaw programs that cultivated innovation ecosystems across the Pacific and Southwest regions, expanding the DoD’s work with startups, venture capital, and research institutions.Earlier in her career, Samantha served in both the U.S. House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate; most notably serving as Press Secretary to Senator John McCain during his tenure as Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee. Samantha’s professional background reflects a career-long commitment to national service and building bridges between the public and private sectors. She is known for her collaborative approach, strategic thinking, and her passion for driving mission-focused outcomes in defense innovation.