Deborah Moorad’s journey into entrepreneurship is deeply rooted in her Oklahoma upbringing and an early passion for science. As a child, she imagined herself becoming a cardiovascular surgeon, but along the way, she discovered a fascination with intellectual property, patents, and the potential of research to change lives. That shift led her into biotechnology, where she built a career advancing innovation and guiding complex projects from concept to clinical trial. From helping move a repurposed cancer drug forward at the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation to later leading biotech companies through transformational growth and acquisitions, Moorad has consistently focused on turning scientific discoveries into meaningful impact. Today, as Oklahoma’s Secretary of Commerce, she continues that mission, blending her experience with a commitment to fostering opportunity for her home state.
“Oklahoma has a community that you can’t put a price tag on,” Moorad said. “You have a community that’s willing to help you, not just with your business, but plug you in every single way. And you don’t get that somewhere else.”
From statewide organizations like the Oklahoma Venture Forum, 1 Million Cups, and The Verge to funding opportunities through the Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology (OCAST), the state offers multiple entry points for innovators to find support. In addition to financial incentives, Oklahoma’s business-friendly environment and expanding venture capital network provide the tools for startups to grow. But what truly sets the state apart, Moorad emphasized, is the willingness of people—from investors to community leaders—to show up, make connections, and actively help businesses succeed.
“The Oklahoma Venture Forum was one of the first events I went to starting out careerwise,” Moorad said. “My boss at the time couldn’t make it, and he wanted me to go. I had no idea what I was walking into, and I got to meet a whole lot of people. It was a great experience for me.”
“For me, this has always been about how I can keep growing—growing as an individual, in my faith, and in the work I do,” Moorad said. “I love it. And it’s fun to be able to connect people and put people together and move things forward. Really, my focus has been, even with the scientists that I get to work with and I’m allowed to work with, it’s like they trust you and you get to work with them to move something forward, and you get to make their dream or become a reality.”
Moorad credits that first OVF luncheon as a pivotal moment early in her career, giving her an entry point into Oklahoma’s entrepreneurial community and a network of peers who were eager to help. Returning now as a speaker, she said, feels like coming full circle. With years of experience leading companies and driving innovation, she is eager to share her story and, just as importantly, learn from the community that first welcomed her into the state’s business ecosystem.
“I would love for individuals to come. It’s exciting to return to one of the first events I attended starting out careerwise,” Moorad said. “Of course, I’ll share things that are going on, but more importantly, I want to hear from the community. That’s where we learn from each other and find out those things we don’t normally hear.”
Join Deborah Moorad at the next Oklahoma Venture Forum Power Lunch on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, for her keynote, “Empowering Progress: How Oklahoma is Fueling Innovation & Economic Growth.” This event will provide a unique opportunity to gain insights from Moorad’s journey and connect with other members and guests in person at the Innovation Hall (316 NE 9th St, Oklahoma City). Get the chance to ask questions and share your own experiences, contributing to the vibrant discussion on innovation and economic growth in Oklahoma.
“I love Oklahoma. Oklahoma is my home state, and I want to share the journey in a different kind of way,” Moorad said. “I want to be able to help my community in a different capacity. I didn’t need the secretary title at all, but I’m thankful for Gov. Stitt allowing me this opportunity. I look forward to working with everyone business-wise and just working together.”