In this episode of The Innovators & Investors Podcast, host Kristian Marquez sits down with Andrew Duffell, President of Research Park at Florida Atlantic University, to explore how the park fosters innovation and entrepreneurship in South Florida.

They discuss the park’s 40-year history, its unique focus on supporting second-stage companies beyond the typical startup phase, and its role in bridging university research with real-world business growth. Andrew highlights key initiatives like Tech Runway, which helps student entrepreneurs develop viable products and attract investors, and shares success stories such as ModMed, a healthcare tech company that grew from a small startup into a billion-dollar enterprise within the park’s ecosystem.

The conversation also delves into the evolving landscape of higher education’s embrace of entrepreneurship, the importance of local mentorship, and the challenges and opportunities in building infrastructure like wet lab space and scientific cores to attract life science ventures.

Andrew provides valuable perspective on fostering long-term economic development through strong community ties, thoughtful policy engagement, and a focus on sustainable growth rather than quick wins. This episode offers a comprehensive look at how a university-affiliated research park can be a powerful catalyst for regional innovation, job creation, and retaining talent in a competitive economic environment.

Listeners gain a nuanced understanding of the strategic efforts behind nurturing startups into mature companies that contribute meaningfully to their local economy.

Learn more about FAUs Research Park at: https://researchparkfau.com/

Connect with Andrew Duffel on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewduffell/

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Want to learn more about Kristian Marquez's work?

Check out his website at https://finstratmgmt.com