Deep Future Newlab is the Deep Tech Epicenter – Scott Cohen
Oct 5, 2024
Scott Cohen, cofounder of Newlab and civic-minded connector, has built a hub for hard-technology startups in Brooklyn. He discusses Newlab’s shift toward energy and materials, how the organization builds lab infrastructure and mediates pilots with industry and government. Conversations cover community-building, scaling studios and real-world testing that helps deep tech projects move from prototype to deployment.
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Design Pilots With Partners To Decrease Friction
- Use Newlab to design pilots with industry and government partners so founders can test in-situ quickly and attract follow-on capital.
- Cohen recommends milestone-based partnerships and using Newlab's network to turn pilots into customers.
Hybrid Revenue Model Balances Space Services And Equity
- Newlab's revenue model mixes real-estate/community services, milestone-based consulting for governments/industry, and measured equity stakes in startups.
- Cohen stresses non-predatory small equity pieces and channeling patient capital into founders.
Staff For Empathy And Consultative Problem Solving
- Hire people who care and can empathize with founders, government officials, and industry — they must navigate complex stakeholder motives.
- Cohen recommends pipeline and consultative staff who obsess over technical themes and design pilot-ready conditions.
