The Established Podcast

Author: Established

The Established Podcast continues to raise the bar for innovators and founders while expanding its lens to include the builders, investors, and changemakers shaping what's next. Each episode shines a light on standout startups, ideas, and trends from the Established network and beyond, uncovering the stories and lessons behind how remarkable people and companies become established.
Be a guest on this podcast

Language: en

Genres: Business, Investing

Contact email: Get it

Feed URL: Get it

iTunes ID: Get it

Get all podcast data

Listen Now...

#0155 – Cait Brumme, CEO of MassChallenge, on Backing Founders, Finding Customers & Building Companies That Matter
Thursday, 8 October, 2026

Cait Brumme, CEO of MassChallenge, joins Frank Gruber for a conversation about what it takes to build companies that matter. MassChallenge is a global nonprofit accelerator supporting early-stage entrepreneurs without taking equity. MassChallenge was ranked by TIME as one of the Best Incubators and Accelerators of 2026, recognizing its continued leadership in helping high-potential startups scale and succeed. Cait shares lessons on what makes founders worth backing, why customer discovery is critical, how entrepreneurs should think about funding and team building, and how the right relationships can unlock customers, capital, and expertise. Frank and Cait also explore dual-use technology, SBIR and STTR funding, enterprise sales, and the evolving role of artificial intelligence in startups. They discuss where AI can make teams more efficient while emphasizing that customer relationships, trust, and human connection remain essential. Cait also reflects on her transition into the CEO role and shares the story of MassChallenge alum Propella, whose technology is helping address neonatal opioid exposure. Throughout the conversation, Cait offers practical advice for founders—including why entrepreneurs should seek honest, specific feedback rather than simply surrounding themselves with cheerleaders. Learn more about MassChallenge at: https://masschallenge.org Get involved with the Established Network: https://established.network Watch the episode on YouTube: https://soty.link/ESTYouTube