Indian American Biotech Leader Heads Maryland Women Entrepreneur Institute

Santhanam, who currently serves as chief scientific officer at a Maryland-based biotech firm, will lead the institute's strategic direction starting in January 2026. The IWEE, founded in 2018, supports women-owned startups through mentorship, funding access, and networking programs across the mid-Atlantic region.

Her appointment follows a decade of involvement with the institute, including two years as vice chair. During that time, she helped launch a seed fund that has disbursed over $2 million to early-stage companies led by women.

Santhanam holds a doctorate in molecular biology from Johns Hopkins University and holds 14 patents in drug delivery systems. She has previously served on advisory boards for several university incubators and has mentored more than 50 women entrepreneurs.

In a statement, Santhanam said she aims to expand IWEE's reach to rural areas and increase partnerships with corporate sponsors. The institute's outgoing chair, Maria Lopez, will remain on the board as an advisor.

The board's 2026–2027 term begins amid a broader push in Maryland to close the gender gap in venture capital funding, where women-led startups receive less than 3% of annual investments.