Paul Richardson
Speaker
Navigating Iowa's Entrepreneurial Eco-System to Grow Your Startup
Session Category:
Discover how Iowa’s unique ecosystem can fuel entrepreneurial success. In “Heartland Hustle: Building Big Dreams and Growing a Startup in Iowa’s Ecosystem,” Paul H. Richardson, Jr. shares his journey of founding and scaling Tumbleweed, a mission-driven startup, right here in the Hawkeye State. From leveraging local resources to building strategic partnerships, Paul reveals the opportunities and challenges of growing a business in Iowa…and why Iowa is the perfect place to turn big dreams into reality. Whether you’re a founder, investor, or community builder, this session will leave you inspired to make your mark in the Midwest. By the end of the session, attendees will feel empowered to leverage Iowa’s full potential, turning its rich resources into a launchpad for their big dreams.
About
Paul Richardson
Paul H. Richardson, Jr. is the visionary Co-Founder and CEO of Tumbleweed, a groundbreaking SaaS company that empowers families with digital tools for legacy planning and post-loss navigation. With a deep commitment to creating solutions that blend technology and human touch, Paul’s leadership is reshaping how families prepare for life’s toughest moments, helping them focus on what truly matters. Paul brings nearly 25 years of experience in healthcare, technology, and education to his role, blending expertise with an innovative mindset. His leadership has been recognized on a national stage, including being named National Educator of the Year and the JPEC Venture School Business of the Year. Throughout his career, Paul has driven initiatives that improve access, equity, and outcomes for individuals and communities, demonstrating a lifelong commitment to impactful leadership and service. Beyond his role at Tumbleweed, Paul is dedicated to fostering economic development and supporting fellow founders. He is actively engaged in building a thriving startup ecosystem, sharing insights from his journey to inspire innovation and collaboration among entrepreneurs. Paul’s work exemplifies his belief that strong communities are built by empowering individuals to turn challenges into opportunities.