Paul Arvantides

Paul serves as the Chief Executive Officer of the Don Ryan Center for Innovation (DRCI), bringing a dynamic blend of entrepreneurial insight, leadership experience, and a passion for small business development.

Paul steps into the CEO role after three years as the organization’s Vice President of Innovation, where he played a critical role in expanding DRCI’s impact and fostering innovation across Bluffton and the greater Lowcountry region.

Before joining DRCI, Paul was the Regional Director of the Mohawk Valley Small Business Development Center (SBDC), located at the thINCubator at Mohawk Valley Community College. There, he guided startups and established businesses alike, offering strategic consulting and mentorship to support their long-term success.

Paul’s career spans multiple leadership roles in both the private and public sectors. He previously served as Business Manager for Northwestern Mutual, Vice President and Head of U.S. Services at E4E Healthcare Services LLC in Maryland, and President/Owner of Medical Coding Services, Inc., based in Baldwinsville, NY.

He holds a bachelor’s degree in Health Information Administration from SUNY Institute of Technology (now SUNY Polytechnic Institute) and a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Hamilton College.

Paul’s diverse background and deep commitment to innovation make him a powerful advocate for the entrepreneurial community in Bluffton and beyond.