San Diego, January 17, 2026
Samantha Scholl has been appointed as the new Vice President of Innovation at the Better Business Bureau’s Pacific Southwest division. With 28 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Scholl aims to enhance support for underserved entrepreneurs and streamline processes for local businesses. Her leadership includes expanding the BBB Breakthrough Accelerator program and fostering collaboration through the ignite innovation hub. Scholl’s commitment to community service further solidifies her role in driving economic growth in San Diego.
New Leadership at BBB Drives Innovation for San Diego Businesses
Former Hospitality Executive Samantha Scholl Takes the Helm
San Diego, CA – The landscape of business support is undergoing exciting changes with the appointment of Samantha Scholl as the new Vice President of Innovation at the Better Business Bureau (BBB) Pacific Southwest, Central and Inland California. Having joined BBB in 2021, Scholl brings with her an extensive 28-year background in the hospitality industry, renowned for fostering entrepreneurial spirit and community engagement. This new role presents an opportunity to further strengthen the fabric of San Diego’s business ecosystem, particularly as we witness an increasing need for innovation and support for underserved entrepreneurs.
The importance of reducing red tape cannot be overstated, as it allows small businesses to thrive and encourages entrepreneurial innovation. Scholl’s leadership and the initiatives she oversees align well with these goals, providing valuable resources to propel businesses forward while fostering ethical practices in our local economy. Scholl is set to lead a cross-functional team in California and Arizona, and her commitment to impactful partnerships promises to enhance local business operations and growth.
Scholl’s Impact on Entrepreneurial Growth
One of her notable contributions to BBB’s mission is the ongoing expansion of the BBB Breakthrough Accelerator program. This initiative has successfully graduated over 200 underserved entrepreneurs, many of whom have transitioned into BBB Accredited Businesses and earned recognition as Torch Awards for Ethics winners. Scholl’s focus on leveling the playing field for these entrepreneurs showcases her dedication to enhancing opportunities for marginalized communities in San Diego.
Building Collaborative Ecosystems with ignite
Another area where Scholl has made a significant impact is through the ignite collaborative innovation hub. Serving cities like San Diego, Phoenix, and Fresno, ignite creates a vibrant environment for professional development, attracting an average of 1,600 visitors per month and facilitating nearly 2,100 meetings and events. This platform not only connects entrepreneurs with peers and mentors but also provides essential resources that can lead to fruitful business ventures and stronger community networks.
Community Service at the Core
Scholl’s commitment to community service goes beyond her professional responsibilities. Actively involved with organizations such as the San Diego Equality Business Association and Shoreline Community Services, she demonstrates the importance of giving back and fostering a sense of belonging among diverse business owners. Such initiatives help form a robust support network that can promote long-term economic growth within the region.
Recognitions Amplifying Leadership
Her efforts have not gone unnoticed; Scholl was recently featured on the San Diego Business Journal’s prestigious lists, ranking in San Diego’s Top 500 Most Influential Leaders and the Top 50 LGBTQ+ Leaders of Influence. These accolades not only affirm her influence in the local business landscape but also highlight her role as a champion for diversity and innovation.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Business Innovation
In her new role, Samantha Scholl is poised to spearhead impactful programs and partnerships that translate innovative ideas into real-world applications. With a balanced approach to fostering economic growth through entrepreneurial innovation and community engagement, her leadership will undoubtedly shape the future trajectory of San Diego’s business community.
As San Diego continues to recover and grow, the importance of supporting local businesses and reducing regulatory hurdles becomes ever more critical. Community engagement in promoting entrepreneurship can drive substantial economic benefits for all residents. Residents are encouraged to remain engaged with local initiatives and support the vibrant ecosystem of businesses in our city.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| New Appointment | Samantha Scholl named Vice President of Innovation at BBB Pacific Southwest, Central and Inland California. |
| Previous Experience | 28 years in the hospitality industry; joined BBB in 2021. |
| Program Leadership | Expanded BBB Breakthrough Accelerator; graduated over 200 underserved entrepreneurs. |
| Community Involvement | Active with San Diego Equality Business Association and Shoreline Community Services. |
| Recognitions | Included in San Diego’s Top 500 Most Influential Leaders and Top 50 LGBTQ+ Leaders of Influence lists. |
| New Role Focus | Leading cross-functional team across California and Arizona to build impactful programs and partnerships. |
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