Securing funding is one of the biggest challenges for start-ups, but understanding your options can make all the difference. This session explores diverse funding avenues, including bootstrapping, crowdfunding, angel investments, and venture capital. Learn how to identify the right financial strategy for your business, attract investors, and position your start-up for long-term success. Whether you're launching your first venture or looking to scale, this discussion will provide practical insights and expert advice to help you navigate the fundraising landscape with confidence. Register now to gain the knowledge and connections you need to fuel your business growth!
Panelists:
Zachary Dutton, Executive Director, Auxilium Worcester
Zak has over 25 years of experience in business and entrepreneurship, primarily in the healthcare industry, including pharmaceuticals, medical foods, and dietary supplements. He most recently served as Executive Director of the Venture Forum, a nonprofit supporting early-stage entrepreneurs. Prior to that, he was the co-founder of a U.S.-based pharmaceutical company that raised over $5 million in financing and was acquired in 2019. He is also an advisor to startups and a member of The Wire Group, a Worcester-based angel group. Zak holds an Honors Bachelor of Arts from Queen’s University and an MBA from the F.W. Olin School of Business at Babson College.
Rosanna Garcia, Beswick Professor of Innovation and Entrepreneurship, WPI
Rosanna Garcia is the Paul R. Beswick Endowed Chair of Innovation and Entrepreneurship in WPI’s Business School. Dr. Garcia has a PhD in marketing from the Eli Broad Graduate School of Business at Michigan State University. She previously held associate professor positions at North Carolina State University and Northeastern University. Her research on entrepreneurism, innovation, and consumer behavior has been published in peer-reviewed journals; she is the author of the textbook Creating & Marketing New Products and Services. She co-founded Vijilent Inc., a data science company that serves the legal industry.
Benjamin F. Maitland-Lewis, SVB, Director, Startup Banking & Founder Success at
Benjamin is a purpose-driven entrepreneur and is the Director of Startup Banking & Founder Success, where he leads strategic initiatives, oversees daily operations, and works to drive growth and innovation.
Megan Marszalek, Program Director, Entrepreneurial and Regional Ecosystems, Mass Tech Collaborative
Megan Marszalek is a leader in entrepreneurship, innovation, and economic development, specializing in startup ecosystems and emerging technology clusters. As Program Director of Entrepreneurial & Regional Ecosystems at MassTech, she drives statewide initiatives to support founders and entrepreneur support organizations. She also advises on Massachusetts' robotics and AI strategies and was recently recognized by Startup Boston as a 2025 Woman Leader Shaping the New England Startup Community.
Moderator: Kristen Keane, Director, Program & Business Development, WPI
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