Russ Scully is a serial entrepreneur and visionary developer whose energetic vision has reshaped Burlington’s innovation landscape. After graduating from St. Lawrence University and pursuing a career in graphic design in California, Russ and his wife Roxanne relocated to Vermont in 1997. He began building a diverse business portfolio that includes water-sports retail (WND&WVS), waterfront restaurants (The Spot restaurant group), a boutique surf resort in Puerto Rico, and publication of Sessions Magazine, a water-lovers' lifestyle magazine. 

Recognizing a need for high-impact economic development, Russ purchased the former Blodgett Oven factory along Lake Champlain and transformed the property into Hula, a vibrant co-working campus, innovation hub, and venture ecosystem.  Featuring glass-filled workspaces, fitness facilities, event spaces, and support services, over 1,200 indivudials enjoy 24/7 access to Hula — including employees from over 100 companies housed at Hula.

Inspired by early interest from companies like Beta Technologies and Benchmark Space Systems, Russ launched a self-funded venture arm—The Fund at Hula—to invest in innovative Vermont-based startups focused on sustainable, scalable technology.

Russ is also deeply engaged in community development: he served on the Burlington Business Association board (chairing it from 2015 to 2021), serves on Champlain College’s board of trustees, and spearheaded a formal partnership between Hula and Champlain to bridge entrepreneurship and academia.

An avid surfer—by wind, foil, paddle, or snow—Russ is known for saying “I love saying yes” to bold ideas, approaching every project with enthusiasm, generosity, and an unwavering commitment to Vermont’s economic vitality.