S1E10: Winning Strategies for Hardware Startups

This episode, Joseph Mocanu, Managing Partner of Verge HealthTech Fund and Rainier Natividad, Founder & CEO of ArmasTec dives deep into the world of raising capital for medtech hardware startups. Listen in as they unravel the complexities of fundraising in a cold market, share insider tips on how to secure investment, and explore the latest trends and strategies shaping the future of medical technology.

Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur or a seasoned founder, this episode will provide you with actionable insights and inspiration to bring your medtech company to the next level. Tune in to stay ahead of the curve and unlock the secrets to thriving in the innovative market of today!

IN THIS EPISODE
(06:39) Advice for aspiring entrepreneurs only in it for the money
(08:35) Difference in fundraising between a hardware vs SaaS startup
(11:10) Strategies used to mitigate long lead times in hardware iterations
(15:00) Is removing technology risk the key to a successful fundraise
(15:52) Difference between a scientific risk vs technology risk
(19:19) Are startups limited to fundraising by proximity?
(25:50) How big should an outreach be for
(31:40) Missionary vs Mercenary archetype
(35:30) Fundraising in a cold market
(38:41) Differing advice between hot and cold markets

Joseph Mocanu | Managing Partner of VergeHealthTech Fund

Joseph is a co-founder and Managing Partner of Verge HealthTech Fund focusing on early-stage healthcare technology companies that make an impact on global health. Prior to this, Joseph was a scientist researching new cancer therapies, a medical device entrepreneur, and a management consultant for Oliver Wyman where he led life sciences and digital health across Asia. He has 19 scientific publications, 3 patents, and has made investments in 29 healthcare technology companies to date. Joseph has a PhD from the University of Toronto, and an MBA from the Richard Ivey School of Business.

Rainier Natividad | Founder & CEO of ArmasTec

Rainier Natividad is the CEO of ArmasTec, a startup known for developing the AireLevate fabric exoskeleton designed for manual labor. With over a decade of experience in creating technology that enhances human physical capabilities, Rainier holds a PhD in Biomedical Engineering from the National University of Singapore, where he specialized in soft wearable robotics.
Before moving to Singapore, he earned his Bachelor's in Mechanical Engineering from the University of the Philippines. Growing up in Manila, Rainier's experiences instilled in him a strong belief in the power of resourcefulness and innovation to achieve ambitious goals, regardless of the challenges.