292. Amplify Startups: Larry Horn on Supporting Entrepreneurship and Innovation in Louisville and Beyond

Middle Tech

In this episode, Logan Jones and Evan Knowles sit down with Larry Horn, CEO of Amplify Startups (formerly Amplify Louisville), to discuss the dynamics of the startup ecosystem in Kentucky. They explore themes like the distinction between entrepreneurship and innovation, the challenges and opportunities in Louisville, and the importance of collaboration with corporates and other organizations. Larry shares insights on Amplify's initiatives, the role of the state in supporting startups, and the future outlook for Kentucky's innovation hubs. The conversation also touches on how Amplify navigates the balance between urban and rural support and the need for affordable startup spaces in Louisville.

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00:00 Introduction and Personal Background

00:44 Welcome to Middle Tech Podcast

00:57 Interview with Larry Horn, CEO of Amplify

01:17 Discussion on Kentucky Innovation Hubs

01:38 Insights on Louisville's Startup Ecosystem

02:35 Sponsor Acknowledgements

04:40 Larry Horn's Journey into Entrepreneurship

09:26 Formation and Evolution of Amplify

13:53 Corporate Engagement in Startup Ecosystems

19:51 State Involvement in Entrepreneurial Ecosystems

25:01 Venture Capital and Tech-Enabled Businesses

25:56 State Funding and Resource Allocation

28:42 Challenges in Supporting Diverse Entrepreneurs

30:29 Urban vs. Rural Resource Centers

37:06 Amplify's Initiatives and Impact

40:47 Progress and Challenges in the Ecosystem

46:29 Future Vision and Collaboration