The Front Door to Innovation with 20Fathoms

Season 2 Episode 3:

In this episode, David Washburn talks with Craig Wesley, Executive Director of 20Fathoms in Traverse City, about how northern Michigan is cultivating a vibrant entrepreneurial community and expanding opportunities for early-stage founders across a 10-county region.

Craig shares his path from Michigan State University to two decades in Silicon Valley and back to Traverse City, and how that experience shaped his vision for building an environment where innovators can thrive. He discusses the evolution of 20Fathoms from a local coworking hub to a regional catalyst for startup activity, along with emerging strengths in freshwater research, fisheries innovation, and drone technology. Craig and Dave also explore how statewide partnerships, new research facilities, and collaborations like PitchMI and Conquer Accelerator are creating more pathways for entrepreneurs across northern Michigan.

Host: David Washburn
Guest: Craig Wesley (Executive Director, 20Fathoms)

Producers: Jenna McNamara and Doug Snitgen

Music: “Devil on Your Shoulder” by Will Harrison, licensed via Epidemic Sound

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