Zachary Dutton is Executive Director of The Venture Forum in Worcester, which plays a crucial role in assisting early-stage entrepreneurs in launching and scaling their businesses. He’s also been a successful entrepreneur, and he brings that experience to work every day. He told us about the Worcester startup ecosystem and some of the companies he and his team are working with.
Q: What new or interesting programming is The Venture Forum currently involved in?
A: In 2022, we were fortunate to receive a grant from Mass Tech Collaborative aimed at strengthening our entrepreneurial ecosystem. As part of this initiative, we’ve been working on curating and centralizing resources for entrepreneurs. Rather than doing this on our website, we’ve partnered with a company called EcoMaps out of Baltimore to create a platform called Launch Worcester. With Launch Worcester, entrepreneurs can easily find and access the resources they need at any stage of their journey. What’s also important is that EcoMaps keeps the site constantly updated, solving the challenge of outdated information that often plagues similar platforms.
We are also developing a cohort based mentoring program that we plan on rolling out in early 2024. The goal of the program is to provide support to budding entrepreneurs by pairing them with experienced mentors who will guide them through an 8-week journey of hands-on mentoring, aiding in the development of their business plans, successful company launches, and efficient capital raising.
Q: What kinds of founders are you working with, and what big ideas are they pursuing?
A: Central Massachusetts is notable for its focus on biotech manufacturing, particularly led by organizations like Massachusetts Biomedical Initiatives. However, we also see a significant presence of advanced manufacturing and technology companies emerging in the region.
For instance, one standout startup is called Valis, which spun out of Worcester Polytechnic Institute. They work with scrap metal recycling companies, helping them operate more efficiently and profitably, contributing to the circular economy. Another noteworthy company, Embue, based in Worcester, focuses on optimizing multifamily housing units with technology and sensors to enhance environmental sustainability and cost-effectiveness.
Q: What’s your background, and what does it mean to you to be doing this work?
A: My background is in the pharmaceutical industry, where I worked with several small, early-stage companies. I’ve also been a co-founder of a startup that was acquired in 2019. This experience in both small startups and established companies gave me insight into the challenges entrepreneurs face. Joining The Venture Forum as Executive Director allowed me to remain connected with the entrepreneurial world and contribute to the exciting changes happening in Worcester.
Q: Worcester does seem to be gaining a reputation as a hub for innovation. What’s your take on it?
A: Worcester has indeed been gaining visibility, particularly for those outside the state. While the city is still working on shedding some historical misconceptions within Massachusetts, it’s becoming a vibrant hub for innovation.
Q: Many individuals in the Massachusetts entrepreneur support ecosystem have experience as founders or co-founders. How do you think that contributes to the ecosystem’s success?
A: It’s certainly valuable. While not a strict requirement, having entrepreneur experience brings a unique perspective. It allows us to empathize with entrepreneurs, having walked in their shoes and faced similar challenges.
