Intro

Today's episode features an interview with Mark Dobbin, founder and president of Killick Capital Inc., a private equity investment firm headquartered in St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador. It was created as a vehicle for Mark’s desire to invest in the aerospace sector as well as work and invest in his hometown. The name "Killick" refers to an anchor made of a long stone and sticks. Its effective and ingenious design has been relied on for centuries to secure boats and nets.

If you're a startup founder in Newfoundland looking to raise money, you're probably knocking on Mark's door. He's more than an investor. He's an important part of the community, connecting and building things in Newfoundland. Let his story inspire you, and I hope you enjoy this episode!

Topics:
1:10 How Mark's upbringing in Newfoundland shaped him
3:33 How his father influenced him to go into business
6:55 His desire to invest in the aerospace sector
9:42 Cultural ties between Newfoundland and Ireland
12:06 NL's balance sheet is a “mess”
15:20 Abundant and consistent supply of oil and gas in NL
18:02 People are the most important resource
24:29 Investing versus operating a business
27:18 His biggest investment failure
30:00 What characteristics does he look for in startup founders?
36:05 Creativity and Innovation
38:59 How can the GlobalNL community support each other?
42:11 Diversity and inclusion
45:58 Advice for Newfoundlanders

Connect with Mark on LinkedIn, Website