As part of Global Entrepreneurship Week, Founder Factory 2024 brought together entrepreneurs, investors, and innovators for a vibrant day of insights and networking in Philadelphia on Wednesday. Hosted by Philly Startup Leaders (PSL), the event began with an inspiring welcome from PSL CEO Isabelle Kent, who shared the organization’s vision for 2025. The program set the stage for thought-provoking conversations on essential startup topics, specifically Modern Startups / Modern Models, emphasizing the importance of embracing modern startups and innovative business models to navigate today’s rapidly evolving entrepreneurial landscape.
Industry experts shared valuable insights through a series of 15-minute sessions, covering government funding with Jennifer Leinbach, Executive Director of the PA Department of Community & Economic Development, angel and venture capital investing with Ellen Weber, Executive Director of Robin Hood Ventures, and private wealth strategies with Jason Ray of Zenith Wealth Partners and Mike Crossey of Cozen O'Connor. Additional sessions explored strategic acquisitions, accelerators, open innovation, and commercializing intellectual property, with leaders like Katie Teuber of Comcast Lift Labs sharing expertise on how founders can develop products by partnering with business leaders to address core and immediate pain points while effectively navigating and adapting to the pace of larger corporations.
Mark Hijar, PSL's Chief Operating Officer, delivered a compelling session on intentional innovation and managing accidental intellectual property in AI, highlighting key considerations for startups in the tech space. Shannon Morales, Founder + CEO of Tribaja, closed the day with an impactful talk on diversifying markets through diversity of thought in hiring practices and startup company culture built for retention. Networking opportunities throughout the event allowed participants to build valuable connections, highlighting PSL’s role as a key driver of the region’s entrepreneurial ecosystem and a vital network to engage with, support, and follow for future innovation.