MEET OUR CAN-DO STAFF
Fremont has a dedicated economic development team — and a larger in-house team we can assemble depending on the situation. Before you invest your time or submit anything, we can make sure you’re on the right path. By being incredibly thorough in the pre-application stage, we can help you compress the process and move business along.
You should also know that Fremont has a stable political climate (read between the lines as you will). In short, we’re business-friendly with economic development baked into our General Plan.
Donovan Lazaro
Economic Development Director
Nikki Inamine
Economic Development Coordinator
Travis Bell
Economic Development Specialist
Vanessa Ware
Economic Development Coordinator
(510) 284-4023
ninamine@fremont.gov
Nikki Inamine
Economic Development Coordinator
In her five-year career, Nikki Inamine has already made her mark on Bay Area local governments by effectively collaborating with industry stakeholders and elected officials, managing cross-department communications, providing thoughtful customer service in high-pressure environments, and more.
As Fremont’s Economic Development Coordinator, Nikki is energized by how public policies affect cities and enjoys uplifting communities and the local businesses within them. She is particularly drawn to the City of Fremont’s robust advanced manufacturing industry and leverages her experience in permit facilitation and communications/marketing in her work with both small businesses and global corporations to grow Fremont's business community.
Throughout her career, Nikki has worked on various initiatives for both the City of Milpitas and the City of San Jose, including coordinating an award-winning interest group called Reconnecting Silicon Valley, assisting businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic, and identifying a new home for San Jose's Japantown Farmer's Market.
Nikki's passion for assisting communities does not stop when she ends the work week. She is part of the Bay Area chapter of iMentor, an organization that mentors first-generation high school students looking to attend college. She received her B.A. in Liberal Arts from Soka University of America.
Where you'll find Nikki off hours: cooking new recipes, learning karate, planning her next trip, and teaching her dog new tricks.
(510) 284-4013
vware@fremont.gov
Vanessa Ware
Economic Development Coordinator
Vanessa Ware is a dynamic professional who has made an impact both in the public and private sectors. With a career spanning over 8 years, she began her journey as a dedicated public servant at the City of Sunnyvale, quickly rising to the role of program assistant in recreation.
Seeking new challenges, Vanessa transitioned to the private sector, where she excelled in various positions at companies like Shutterfly and Blackhawk Network. Throughout her tenure, Vanessa focused on operations management, product development, and customer service, contributing to the growth and success of these organizations.
More recently, as a Management Analyst in the City Manager's Office, Vanessa showcased her versatility as a staff liaison with Mayor and Councilmembers. She actively contributed to various projects, reports, presentations, and high-priority tasks. Additionally, she played a key role in marketing efforts and successfully implemented new newsletters such as the Employee Connection and the Fremont Event's Guide.
Currently, Vanessa is an Economic Development Coordinator with a wealth of experience in both the public and private sectors. As a member of the Economic Development Department she is responsible for supporting local businesses. Vanessa holds an MBA from the University of Notre Dame de Namur, and her education and experience have given her a deep understanding of economic principles and strategies.
In her free time Vanessa loves to spend time with her family, meal prepping, and traveling!
(510) 284-4024
dlazaro@fremont.gov
Donovan Lazaro
Economic Development Director
Donovan Lazaro is a strong believer in community-guided economic development. As a Bay Area native, he understands the complexities and interconnectedness of the region and the need to build a more inclusive and accessible economy — championing collaboration in development projects and “win-win” outcomes. Donovan is passionate about all aspects of economic development, including development facilitation, long-range planning, workforce development, cross-sector initiatives, and helping businesses of all sizes start and grow in Fremont.
Prior to joining the Fremont team, Donovan was an Economic Development Officer at the City of San José. While there, he worked with cross-sector industry partners on a variety of initiatives, including developing a multi-faceted training and internship program to bring high school students from underserved communities into careers in engineering and advanced manufacturing.
Before his career in economic development, Donovan worked in the local tech sector where he gained experience working in both startup and public enterprises. He received his Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration with an International Business focus from San José State University and is currently completing his Master of Urban and Regional Planning degree from the same academic institution. During his free time, Donovan loves traveling, being outdoors, and seeking out new places to get a great meal.
(510) 284-4026
tbell@fremont.gov
Travis Bell
Economic Development Specialist
Travis Bell is an Economic Development Specialist who joins the City of Fremont with nearly two years of public sector experience with the City of Milpitas. Travis brings a unique blend of public-sector experience and private-sector marketing expertise to his role. He is committed to leveraging his skills and knowledge to promote economic growth and vitality in the City of Fremont. His passion for community building, coupled with his strong communication skills, makes him a valuable resource for the city, residents, and businesses.
Travis is a proud Bay Area resident, having lived in the region for his entire life. He received a bachelor's and master's degree from San José State University, where he honed his skills in marketing, communication, and digital media. In his free time, Travis enjoys playing and watching sports, hiking, and spending time with family and friends.