ETC Baltimore Appoints New Executive Director to Lead Innovation and Entrepreneurship
Baltimore’s Innovation Ecosystem Receives a Boost with Arti Santhanam’s Appointment
In a move poised to revitalize Baltimore’s entrepreneurial landscape, the Baltimore Development Corporation (BDC) and Maryland Technology Development Corporation (TEDCO) have jointly appointed Arti Santhanam as the new Executive Director of the Emerging Technology Centers (ETC) Baltimore. This strategic decision marks a significant step towards bolstering support for local tech entrepreneurs and fostering a thriving innovation ecosystem within the city.
A Leader with a Proven Track Record
Arti Santhanam brings a wealth of experience and expertise to her new role at ETC Baltimore. Her previous tenure as Executive Director of TEDCO’s Maryland Innovation Initiative (MII) showcased her ability to promote academic research commercialization across the state. Santhanam’s diverse background in startups, venture capital, and life sciences positions her as an ideal candidate to drive ETC Baltimore’s mission forward.
ETC Baltimore’s Strategic Transformation
The appointment of Santhanam coincides with ETC Baltimore’s implementation of a comprehensive strategic plan, developed in collaboration with HR&A Advisors. This plan outlines a transformative public-private operational model aimed at strengthening the organization’s support for local tech entrepreneurs. Drawing inspiration from successful initiatives like 43North, a Buffalo-based fintech startup providing funding and acceleration support, ETC Baltimore seeks to elevate its impact on the city’s innovation ecosystem.
Santhanam’s Vision for ETC Baltimore
Santhanam’s immediate focus is to engage with ecosystem partners, understand their needs, and identify gaps in resources and programming. She aims to tailor ETC Baltimore’s efforts to address these gaps and provide meaningful support to local companies and entrepreneurs. Additionally, Santhanam envisions the establishment of a venture studio under ETC Baltimore’s leadership. This venture studio will foster public-private partnerships to assist end-growth stage companies in navigating processes, increasing their valuation, and attracting better investments in subsequent rounds. The ultimate goal is to retain these companies in Baltimore, promoting their growth and success within the city.
ETC Baltimore’s Historical Significance and Ongoing Relevance
ETC Baltimore has played a pivotal role in Baltimore’s innovation community since its inception in 1999. The organization has consistently evolved to meet the changing needs of entrepreneurs, providing resources and opportunities for potential growth. Margaret Roth Falzon, ETC’s Board Chair and COO of Squadra Ventures, emphasizes the organization’s ability to remain a cornerstone of Baltimore’s innovation landscape. Paul Taylor, BDC board member and business advocate, reflects on ETC Baltimore’s pioneering role as one of the first incubators in Baltimore City, inspiring the establishment of numerous other incubators and accelerators.
A New Chapter Begins
The appointment of Arti Santhanam as Executive Director of ETC Baltimore marks a new chapter for the organization. With her expertise and strategic vision, Santhanam aims to revitalize ETC Baltimore’s mission, strengthen its support for local tech entrepreneurs, and foster a vibrant innovation ecosystem within the city. The implementation of the new strategic plan and the exploration of a venture studio hold promise for the future of ETC Baltimore and its role in driving economic growth and entrepreneurship in Baltimore.
Call to Action
Entrepreneurs, investors, and stakeholders in Baltimore’s innovation ecosystem are encouraged to connect with Arti Santhanam and ETC Baltimore to explore collaboration opportunities and contribute to the city’s growing tech community. Together, we can make Baltimore a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship, driving economic growth and creating a better future for all.