EP9 | Money is Important but Not Everything in a Biotech Startup | Kavitha

May 2, 2025

Money and Startup

In this episode of Mentor Konnect, we welcome Kavitha Iyer Rodrigues, Co-founder & CEO of Zumutor Biologics Inc. With extensive experience in biotech innovation and leadership, Kavitha shares her insights on navigating the challenges of building a biotech startup, securing funding (Money), and the importance of experience over credentials.

🔍 Key Takeaways:
✔️ Earning in biotech takes time—initial funding (Moeny) is crucial before seeing results.
✔️ Incubator ecosystems play a vital role in launching a startup.
✔️ Whether or not you have a PhD, experience in a lab or company is invaluable.
✔️ Transitioning from scientist to entrepreneur requires strategic planning.

❓ Key Questions Discussed:
1️⃣ What strategies helped in transitioning from scientist to entrepreneur?
2️⃣ Is an MBA essential for a successful startup?
3️⃣ What was the biggest challenge in securing investor funding?
4️⃣ Is a PhD necessary for a scientist role in a biotech company?

📌 Connect with Kavitha Iyer Rodrigues on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kavitha-iyer-rodrigues-8b8b29b/

🎤 Session facilitated by: Narendra Chirmule, CEO at SymphonyTech Biologics

📺 Watch Now: https://youtu.be/u42ScK1UtQg

🔖 #MentorKonnect #Entrepreneurship #BiotechStartup #Funding #Leadership #Mentorship

About Mentor Konnect

🎓 Inspiring Minds. Connecting Journeys.

Mentor Konnect is a storytelling and mentorship series by
BioPatrika, designed to bridge the gap between aspiring scientists, professionals, and accomplished leaders across diverse fields—spanning biotech, physics, academia, industry, and beyond.

Each episode features an in-depth conversation with a trailblazer who shares personal career journeys, pivotal mentorship moments, challenges faced, and the mindset needed to navigate growth and transitions.

Whether you’re a student, researcher, postdoc, or industry professional, Mentor Konnect offers a unique blend of wisdom, warmth, and real-world guidance to help you carve your own path with confidence.