Dean Miller has been a venture capitalist for over 20 years, with particular interest in the healthcare technology and innovations space. Brought up in upstate New York, his early experiences shaped him for independence and entrepreneurship. Dean served as Managing Director at Novitas Capital, where he focused on venture capital investments across healthcare and technology. He went on to become Managing Director of the PCOM Primary Care Innovation Fund, a role he describes as not just making money for the institution but to really broaden the institution's mind around healthcare and innovation. Dean’s passion project is ultimately running Philadelphia Alliance for Capital & Technologies (PACT) as President and CEO. He shares some of his experiences with PACT, as well as the new Philadelphia Global Identity Project. Tune in to find out more.

Key Takeaways:

[3:20] Kevin does a speed round with his guest — Dean Miller.

[7:18] What was Dean's upbringing like in upstate New York?

[11:25] What was Dean's time like at Novitas?

[13:03] Dean shares his experience working with Buck Buckley.

[14:45] Dean led investments into a variety of companies. He reveals some of the highlights of the time.

[16:50] When did Dean get involved in Renal Solutions and why did he get out of it?

[18:34] What is PCOM and the Primary Care Innovation Fund?

[21:38] Why was there an inherent or potential conflict between PCOM and other research institutions?

[23:17] Dean has made eight investments in the last three years. What kind of companies does he choose to focus on?

[27:04] What is the benefit of seeking investment from PCOM?

[33:33] What is PACT and why does it exist? Dean shares some details about its creation and development.

[38:27] Dean speaks to the vision and mission of PACT.

[39:36] What are the three pillars of PACT and why are they important?

[45:59] Why is it important that the mentors get to choose their mentees?

[49:30] Philadelphia was one of the top 10 most active regions in the US for venture capital in 2018.

[56:59] On the innovation front, where are Philadelphia's bright spots?

[1:02:51] What is the Philadelphia Global Identity Project?

Links:

Dean Miller

Novitas Capital

PCOM

PCOM Primary Care Innovation Fund

Philadelphia Alliance for Capital & Technologies (PACT)

Global Identity Project

Penn Center for Innovation

Safeguard Scientifics 

VerticalNet

Matt Hagen CEO of Vertical Net

Agile Therapeutics

Cernostics, Inc.

Renal Solutions

Incurrent Solutions

VIPDesk Tango Belt

Venture Connect

MIT

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