Caravanserai Names New Co-CEOs
Caravanserai Names New Co-CEOs
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Caravanserai Names New Co-CEOs: Franzene Minott and Bradley Chargualaf
Leadership Transition Marks Exciting New Chapter for Social Entrepreneurship Nonprofit
2 October 2025 – Palm Springs, CA: Caravanserai, a nationally recognized leader in social entrepreneurship, today announced the appointment of Franzene Minott and Bradley Chargualaf as their new Co-Chief Executive Officers. Minott and Chargualaf succeed Mihai Patru, Caravanserai CEO.
“We are grateful to Mihai for his extraordinary service and vision,” said Caravanserai Board Chair Craig Dougherty. “He not only built Caravanserai into a force for impact, but also mentored the next generation of leaders who will carry our mission forward. Franzene and Bradley represent the very best of Caravanserai — talented, committed, and deeply experienced.”
Franzene Minott has served as Caravanserai’s Chief Operating Officer, leading strategy development and core initiatives to connect under-resourced entrepreneurs with capital, training, and technical assistance. She is recognized for her success in building cross-sector partnerships with government agencies, financial institutions, and businesses.
“Caravanserai has always stood for opening doors of opportunity where they are most needed,” said Minott. “I’m honored to step into this role alongside Bradley, and together we will continue to strengthen the pathways for entrepreneurs who too often have been overlooked. Our vision is clear: inclusive, thriving communities built on the success of under-resourced entrepreneurs.”
Bradley Chargualaf has served as Caravanserai’s Chief Technology Officer and as Director of the Caravan SBDC, where he has overseen technology strategy, program delivery, and partnerships that support hundreds of small businesses each year. As one of Caravanserai’s earliest employees, Bradley has advanced through progressive leadership roles since 2021.
“I’ve been part of Caravanserai since the early days, and I’ve seen firsthand the incredible impact this organization has on entrepreneurs and families,” said Chargualaf. “As Co-CEO, I look forward to building on that legacy—especially by expanding our use of technology and partnerships to help small businesses innovate, adapt, and grow. Franzene and I are committed to leading with both heart and strategy.”
“Palm Springs is proud to partner with Caravanserai and to see the organization thriving under new leadership,” said Mayor Ron DeHarte. “Franzene and Bradley bring the vision and energy our community needs to ensure local entrepreneurs have the tools to succeed. Their leadership will strengthen our economy and help create opportunities for all who call Palm Springs home.”
Caravanserai’s commitment to empowering entrepreneurs from under-resourced communities remains steadfast, even as the organization expands into new sectors and geographies. Recent growth includes:
• A partnership with the State of California supporting small farmers through training, technical assistance, and grants.
• Expansion into the High Desert region and a greatly increased collaboration with the City of Palm Springs to serve local entrepreneurs.
• A statewide research initiative with the Governor’s Office to strengthen business technical assistance programs for entrepreneurs with neurodiversity.
Caravanserai encourages its community of donors, partners, and supporters to connect with the new leadership and continue building on the organization’s record of impact.
“This is an exciting new chapter—and with the continued support of our partners and donors, the best is yet to come,” added Dougherty.
About Caravanserai:
Caravanserai empowers entrepreneurs from under-resourced communities by providing access to capital, training, and technical tools to succeed. Through innovative programs and partnerships, Caravanserai supports small businesses, builds inclusive economies, and drives community resilience.
For more information, visit www.caravanseraiproject.org.