There are 5 pillars of a resilient entrepreneurial ecosystem - government, risk capital, universities, corporate connections and entrepreneurs. Corporate connections are important because they are often first customers, source of risk capital, and talent incubators. Today's story takes us inside one of the region's corporate pillars, one that was a one-person startup 146 years ago, and provides a look not often seen by those on the outside.
Thank you, Tej, for inviting Gary to share this incredible look back at Principal’s technology journey. And thank you, Gary, for the rich history and insights. Your story captures just how foundational Principal has been not only in building its own innovation-driven culture but also in shaping Iowa’s broader startup and entrepreneurial ecosystem. It’s inspiring to see how Principal drew from its own history, starting as a scrappy challenger in 1879, to support and invest in the next generation of builders and entrepreneurs. I learned a great deal!
Your reflections highlight the crucial point that large, established companies have a responsibility and a unique opportunity to foster innovation by supporting startups, sharing expertise, and building infrastructure that benefits the entire community.
Appreciate you shining a light on this important piece of Iowa’s startup story!
Great job, Gary on telling the origin story beginning with Edward Temple! I use the Principal story whenever I'm talking with both startups and corporates on how the two are more connected than we know.
What a great trip down memory lane!
Thank you, Tej, for inviting Gary to share this incredible look back at Principal’s technology journey. And thank you, Gary, for the rich history and insights. Your story captures just how foundational Principal has been not only in building its own innovation-driven culture but also in shaping Iowa’s broader startup and entrepreneurial ecosystem. It’s inspiring to see how Principal drew from its own history, starting as a scrappy challenger in 1879, to support and invest in the next generation of builders and entrepreneurs. I learned a great deal!
Your reflections highlight the crucial point that large, established companies have a responsibility and a unique opportunity to foster innovation by supporting startups, sharing expertise, and building infrastructure that benefits the entire community.
Appreciate you shining a light on this important piece of Iowa’s startup story!
Great job, Gary on telling the origin story beginning with Edward Temple! I use the Principal story whenever I'm talking with both startups and corporates on how the two are more connected than we know.
Great article about a great company born and raised in Iowa.
Who knew? Thanks Tej and Gary for this story.