Saranda Belica

Saranda Belica currently serves as Senior Advisor for Strategic Initiatives in Research, Innovation, and Entrepreneurship at the University of Connecticut, focusing on building Connecticut's quantum ecosystem and developing a statewide strategic plan for the quantum industry. Previous experience includes roles as Director and Associate Director of Business Development at AdvanceCT, where significant contributions were made to enhance Connecticut's global competitiveness and establish the offshore wind sector. Prior positions include Case Coordinator at the CT Department of Energy and Environmental Protection, Economic Development and Communications Coordinator for the City of Waterbury, and Community and Business Development Specialist at Waterbury Development Corporation. Saranda holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Government from Central Connecticut State University and participated in the National Science Foundation Cohort at MIT Sloan School of Management focusing on Regional Acceleration Entrepreneurship.