Tracy Irby is a Certified AI Partner, serial entrepreneur, and dynamic business educator with over 25 years of experience launching, advising, and growing small businesses. As Director of a statewide entrepreneur center and a small business advisor for more than 13 years, Tracy has worked directly with thousands of business owners to turn ideas into sustainable, thriving ventures.

Her entrepreneurial background spans multiple industries—including retail, fitness, services, and e-commerce—giving her a practical, boots-on-the-ground understanding of what it takes to build and grow a million dollar business. In addition to her extensive advising and teaching experience, Tracy is also a licensed insurance professional, allowing her to provide critical guidance on risk management and protection for small business owners.

As an adjunct instructor and international speaker, Tracy is passionate about demystifying entrepreneurship and empowering others through accessible, actionable education. Being a Certified AI Partner adds a cutting-edge layer to her offerings, helping business owners integrate AI tools to boost productivity, marketing, and operational efficiency.

Tracy holds a BBA and MBA in Marketing from East Texas A&M University, is a graduate of the University of Oklahoma Economic Development Institute, and carries multiple industry-recognized certifications including:

Economic Development Finance Professional (EDFP), Master Economic Development Practitioner (MEDP), Entrepreneurship Center Manager Certification (ECM), Certified GrowthWheel Business Advisor

Whether on stage, in the classroom, or across the table from a startup founder, Tracy leads with clarity, confidence, and a commitment to building generational impact through smart business practices.