From Concept to Market: The Journey of Startup Success in MedTech

In this enlightening episode of the Leaders, Innovators, and Big Ideas (LIBI) Podcast, host Al Del Degan talks to Kelly Mottet, Chief Operating Officer of Mach 32. Kelly takes us through the dynamic journey of developing a groundbreaking medical device—the EpiPen-like auto-injector that aims to significantly reduce bleeding deaths. She shares insights into the startup ecosystem, the critical role of non-dilutive funding, and the importance of gathering user feedback to pivot product development. This episode provides a comprehensive view of the medtech landscape and the determination required to bring a life-saving product to market.

Thank you for listening to the Leaders, Innovators and Big Ideas podcast, supported by Rainforest Alberta. The podcast that highlights those people who are contributing to and/or supporting the innovation ecosystem in Alberta. Host: Al Del Degan is a software developer and tech leader in Alberta's innovation ecosystem. He is also a Web3 enthusiast and podcaster, sharing his knowledge and passion for emerging technologies with his audience. Al is the founder and CTO of New Idea Machine, a software company dedicated to helping new developers gain hands-on experience building real-world applications. With his commitment to giving back to the community, Al is always available to offer advice on technology and business. His passion for innovation and entrepreneurship is evident in everything he does, making him a respected leader in the tech industry.

Guest: Kelly Mottet is a medical device start-up aficionado, who is passionate to bring life to new products. Kelly has a positive attitude, and always finds a way to get things done! She excels in fast-paced environments, leading the team with agility in challenging environments. MACH32 is the third medical device start-up for Kelly, with previous success in North American and European markets, and it shows. Kelly makes sound decisions and inspires the team to perform at a high level to meet her vision of success.

Kelly is a self-starter, that is comfortable with ambiguity and taking calculated risks. She has the unique ability to rapidly assess situations and provide decisive leadership. Kelly considers herself a student of leadership, constantly striving to improve and lead by example. She values relationships, integrity and transparency.

Kelly’s diverse experience in product development, business development, sales, marketing, supplier management, regulatory and quality management systems compliments the MACH32 management team.

Outside of work you can usually find Kelly playing chauffer for her children’s sporting events, she also enjoys yoga and red wine.

Show Links:

• MACH32
• Innovative Trauma Care
• Marc Curial
• Alberta Innovates
• IRAP
• The Center for the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA)
• Centre for Advanced Medical Simulation (CAMS)

Show Quotes:

"The privilege that we have in being able to get half a million dollars from friends and family is a massive privilege to be able to do." "You have to be out there sharing and being open and getting help and asking for help, and then giving back and supporting others." "Without those 3D printed prototypes, we never would've got that critical end-user feedback."

Credits... This Episode Sponsored By: New Idea Machine Episode Music: Tony Del Degan Creator & Producer: Al Del Degan