Director
About |
Bill Harper

Bill Harper is a Board Member of the Creative Defense Foundation and Partner at Harper Downing LLC. As former Chief of Staff to Congresswoman Betty McCollum, he brings over two decades of experience navigating defense appropriations and public policy. His deep understanding of congressional strategy and cross-sector collaboration strengthens CDF’s mission to align national security priorities with innovative, entrepreneurial solutions.
Experience
Board President | Minnesota National Security Ecosystem
Partner | Harper Downing LLC
Former U.S. Congressional Chief of Staff | Rep. Betty McCollum (D-MN-04)
Former Volunteer, Peace Corps (Malawi & Guatemala)
Former Chief of Staff | Chairman of Hennepin County Board of Commissioners
Former Staff Assistant | Minnesota Attorney General Hubert H. Humphrey III