How startup investment works
In uncertain economic times, building a startup might sound reckless. But Paul Krutko, CEO of Ann Arbor Spark, says that’s precisely when innovation should bloom. In this energising episode of Visionary, recorded at Here East and hosted by Georgina Godwin, Krutko lays out a blueprint for regions that want to grow from within rather than hope for the next Silicon Valley to land on their doorstep.
Drawing on decades of experience and a portfolio of over 450 early-stage investments, Krutko argues that thriving economies are built through long-term thinking, cross-sector collaboration, and what he calls “gardening” — nurturing many ideas rather than betting on one big winner. “Real innovation doesn’t start with a building,” he says. “It starts with a plan.”
What you’ll learn in this episode:
Why growing startups locally often beats chasing outside investment.
How to match smart tech with smart business skills — and avoid early-stage failure.
What it takes to build a regional economy rooted in innovation, not imitation.
Watch the episode on YouTube below, or listen via your preferred podcast app.
