Episode Description
Ever wondered how startups turn bold ideas into industry-shaping innovations? In this episode, we team up with Plug and Play, a global accelerator powerhouse, to uncover the secrets behind their success in driving breakthroughs across agricultural technology, animal health, and beyond. Hear from visionary founder Saeed Amidi, the Plug and Play Topeka team, and trailblazing entrepreneur Rich Kelleman as they share how Plug and Play transforms ambitious dreams into thriving businesses. Plus, stick around for an exciting announcement about how this collaboration will continue in 2025!
Helpful Links
Learn more about Plug and Play: https://www.plugandplaytechcenter.com/
Embroker’s 106 Must-Know Startup Statistics for 2024: https://www.embroker.com/blog/startup-statistics/
Understanding the Stages of Venture Capital from Silicon Valley Bank: https://www.svb.com/startup-insights/vc-relations/stages-of-venture-capital/
Learn more about Bond Pet Foods: https://www.petfoodprocessing.net/articles/17131-food-is-science-and-science-is-food-at-bond-pet-foods
Follow BSM Partners on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram to stay up to date about future episodes, including our co-branded podcast collaboration with Plug and Play.
Show Notes
00:00 – Inside the Episode
02:45 – Meet Saeed Amidi, Serial Entrepreneur and Visionary Founder of Plug and Play
08:18 – What is a Unicorn?
10:48 – Building a Solution-Minded Community
15:38 – Meet the Plug and Play Topeka Team
17:01 – Breaking Down the Jargon
22:05 – Supporting Long-Term Innovation
24:00 – How Plug and Play Selects Startups for its Programs
27:02 – The Value Proposition
30:12 – Behind the Scenes of a Plug and Play Program
35:35 – Meet Rich Kelleman, Founder of Bond Pet Foods
36:56 – Rich’s Plug and Play Experience
46:43 – A Message for Fellow Founders
47:30 – When Impact Trumps Profit
49:55 – An Exciting Announcement!
50:45 – Conclusion and Farewell