Kory Murphy joined the The Lemelson Foundation in 2023 as a Program Officer. As part of the Foundation’s Invention and Entrepreneurship team, he leads projects that drive inclusive economic growth, particularly for Black and Latin/x entrepreneurs nationwide, with a focus on Oregon.
With 15 years of experience in Oregon’s public sector and 10 as a private consultant, Murphy — who was raised in Portland — is well-versed in community development and enhancing critical infrastructure in marginalized communities. Across his career, he has played major roles in revamping the state’s child welfare system, launching the Black Male Achievement Initiative in Portland, and leading equity shifts in Multnomah County.
As a consultant, Murphy actively engaged with diverse private, public, and community-based organizations, including Portland Public Schools, Portland Police Bureau, Technology Association of Oregon, Social Venture Partners, and Innovative Housing Inc.
His government roles have included county assets, talent development, and child welfare, often in collaboration with national experts in organizational development.
Before joining the Foundation, Murphy co-founded and directed the NW Accelerator (NWX), a groundbreaking startup accelerator for Black and underserved climate tech entrepreneurs. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Sociology from the University of Oregon.
