The Smart Business Dealmakers Dealmaker of the Year Awards recognize exceptional individuals who are shaping the landscape of business and innovation in Baltimore.
In addition, The Baltimore Dealmakers Hall of Fame recognized a class of dealmakers that has made an often-groundbreaking impact on their organizations, industries and the region over the course of decades in business.
We celebrated the accomplishments of the 2026 class of winners on April 23 at the Baltimore Smart Business Dealmakers Conference. Together, they provide a strong picture of the Baltimore business community.
Dealmaker Of The Year Honorees
Jay Steinmetz, Founder & Board Member, DecisionPoint Technologies. Jay Steinmetz built DecisionPoint Technologies from a startup into a $200 million industry leader over nearly three decades. Through more than 14 acquisitions and investments, he expanded the company’s capabilities across automation, RFID, and advanced analytics. His disciplined, forward-looking deal strategy has consistently driven innovation and long-term value. Today, he remains active as a founder and investor, continuing to identify opportunities that shape the future of supply chain and technology-driven businesses.
Anna Gavin, Former Owner, CEO & President, Fireline Corporation. Anna Gavin led Fireline Corporation through a successful majority recapitalization with Encore Fire Protection, positioning the company for continued growth. She secured a partner aligned with Fireline’s culture, legacy, and long-term vision, generating strong market interest and exceeding expectations. The transaction ensures continuity for employees and customers while expanding Fireline’s reach across the Mid-Atlantic. Her leadership reflects a disciplined approach to dealmaking rooted in both performance and preservation of company values.
Dr. Chad Gordon, Founder & Executive Chair, CraniUS Therapeutics. Dr. Chad Gordon has combined medical innovation with strategic capital formation to advance CraniUS Therapeutics. In a challenging funding environment, he secured more than $40 million in private investment, including a significant raise in 2025, alongside state and NIH grant support. He is also leading active acquisition discussions with multiple Fortune 50 companies. In parallel, he serves as a professor and surgical leader at Johns Hopkins, developing groundbreaking treatments for patients with complex brain conditions.
Daniel Lunz, Vice President, New Product Strategy, Castle Biosciences, Inc. Daniel Lunz played a pivotal role in the growth and successful acquisition of Previse, a gastrointestinal health company he co-founded and led as CEO. The transaction expanded Castle Biosciences’ capabilities within its GI portfolio, integrating complementary technologies to address critical unmet needs in diagnostics. Now leading new product strategy, he continues to drive innovation and strategic growth, leveraging his experience building and scaling healthcare solutions to improve patient outcomes.
Myra Norton, Senior Director, Business Initiatives Fast Forward, Johns Hopkins Technology Ventures. Myra Norton is advancing innovation and commercialization at scale through her leadership at Johns Hopkins Technology Ventures. She drives the acceleration of technologies, startups, and strategic partnerships that connect academia, industry, and government to solve complex challenges. With a multidisciplinary background spanning entrepreneurship, data analytics, and higher education, she has strengthened Baltimore’s innovation ecosystem—fostering collaboration and supporting ventures that deliver meaningful economic and societal impact.
Social Impact Award Honoree
Michael Miller, Co-Founder, Above It All. Michael “Motivational Mike” Miller is transforming lives through education, wellness, and community empowerment. As Co-Founder of Above It All, he has built and scaled mission-driven ventures across early childhood education, youth development, and fitness, generating significant annual revenue while serving hundreds of families in underserved communities. Programs like Magic Minds and Above It All have expanded to multiple locations, creating meaningful opportunities for students to grow academically and personally.
A former educator and first-generation entrepreneur, Michael’s journey — shaped by overcoming financial hardship during the 2008 crisis — has informed his disciplined, purpose-driven approach to business. He continues to prioritize both impact and sustainability, building organizations that serve communities while remaining financially strong. Through his work and his platform as “Motivational Mike,” he inspires others to pursue growth, resilience, and opportunity, while investing in stronger, more connected communities.
Dealmakers Hall of Fame Honorees
Eileen O’Rourke. Eileen O’Rourke has spent decades advancing mission-driven investment and strengthening Baltimore’s innovation ecosystem. As Director of Impact Investing at the Abell Foundation, she has played a pivotal role in deploying capital to early-stage companies, supporting the commercialization of new technologies, and driving inclusive economic growth across the region. Her work has helped connect entrepreneurs, institutions, and investors to build a more dynamic and equitable business environment.
With more than 30 years of experience spanning finance, operations, and investment strategy, Eileen has led investments in emerging sectors including green energy while supporting founders building the future of Baltimore. A former KPMG manager and Legg Mason vice president, she brings deep financial expertise and a strong commitment to community impact. Through thoughtful, strategic investing, she continues to create lasting economic and social value.
