2019 Startup Spotlight | Columbus
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We are a wireless power company with an advantaged far-field technology that converts radio frequency (RF) energy into direct current (DC) power. We believe that wireless power, along with ubiquitous internet, will define what it means to live and work in the 21st century.
If you were to invest in one thing in Columbus (aspect, infrastructure, etc.) what would it be? Why?
Will: A fund that writes meaningful seed stage checks ($250k - $1 million) with speed. We have to take more risk to back entrepreneurs in the early days. The pipeline to scaling great technology companies in our region is choked if founders can’t access the capital needed in the early days.
It would appear that there is more buzz surrounding the Columbus entrepreneurial and startup community than ever before. What key factors are driving this growth? What’s missing?
Will: I attribute much of this buzz to a larger macro trend around startup/ tech communities being built in non-traditional regions such as the Midwest. I believe this overall very good for the innovation economy in the US.
Columbus has done a great job so far in participating in this trend. We have also benefited from a few key events including winning the Smart City Grant, Drive Capital decision to HQ in Columbus and more. The momentum created has potential to not only allow us to participate in the trend, but to become a dominant force in the Midwest and beyond. But there is plenty of work to do:
• We need more resident investment funds focused on early stage investing.
• Commercialize more technology from research institutions like Ohio State. The model of Ikove Capital is good for everyone to take a look at.
• Develop more entrepreneurs - this is a cultural evolution. Entrepreneurs are the lifeblood of a startup community and we need to encourage more young
women and men to take a chance on their business dreams, provide support for growth and win, lose or draw, encourage them to start again.
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