About
Solving problems where business and government meet
Cold Rock is a strategic advisory firm with a curated network of partners. Our work spans public sector engagement, small and mid-sized business growth, and nonprofit strategy — delivered through relationships built across every level of government and industry.
How we work
We are a solutions-oriented firm operating in a complex and often ambiguous space. Our process begins with a deep and acute understanding of the problem — dissecting every twist and turn of the issue before developing a clear plan of attack. We seek to provide clear, actionable deliverables that create the best possible outcome for every client.
Leadership
Managing Partner
Van Freeman
Van Freeman is a policy strategist and advisor with more than two decades of experience driving solutions at the intersection of business, government, and economic mobility.
Van currently serves as Director of Public Policy and Investment at STRIVE, a national workforce development nonprofit, where he leads federal, state, and local policy strategy across multiple cities.
Previously, as Principal Consultant at QED Solutions, Van developed government engagement strategies for clients across sectors. He served as Regional Head for Washington, DC at Opportunity@Work, and as Director of Future Workforce Development at the Aerospace Industries Association.
A former Obama Administration appointee, Van held senior positions at the U.S. Department of Commerce and served as Deputy Chief of Staff at the DC Department of Employment Services.
Van is an active mentor at Techstars and General Partner of 1921 Ventures, investing in mission-driven founders building solutions for underserved communities.
He holds a bachelor's degree from Morehouse College and a Juris Doctorate from Southern University Law Center.
Cold Rock operates with a curated network of affiliate partners across infrastructure, transportation, banking, and finance.
Areas of expertise
- Trade association and peer network engagement
- Federal engagement — executive branch and congressional
- State engagement — governors' offices and state legislators
- Local engagement — cities, city councils, and municipal agencies
- Workforce development, economic mobility, and inclusive growth