Ed Perry of Austin has built three startups and served in executive roles with Apple Computer, McDermott, British Petroleum, MEPL Singapore and Versant Technology. In August 2000, Perry had sold his Human Code operation to Sapient for $135 million, according to Austin-based AV Labs. The Fellow program provides portfolio companies with world-class entrepreneurial operating talent that's aimed at building value at early stages.

In another recent addition, San Antonio's US Global Investors Inc. has hired a new COO and CFO for investment advisory. Bobby Duncan has assumed that role for the firm, which has $1.3 billion in assets under management. "He understands the mutual fund business and his no-nonsense approach is refreshing. His leadership skills, experience and hands-on management style will help guide the vision for the company, as well as streamline costs and refocus strategy on higher margin business," says Frank Holmes, US Global's chairman and CEO. Duncan has 21 years' experience in finance, 15 of which have been spent in the mutual fund industry.

US Global Investors focuses on profitable niche markets worldwide. It provides financial solutions and transfer agency services to US Global Investors Funds and US Global Accolade Funds. The groups comprise 13 no-load mutual funds for investment in options such as emerging markets and money markets.