What does an investor want? A conversation with Zachary Dutton

In this episode of Time To StartUp, Zachary Dutton, Executive Director of Auxilium in Worcester, joins host Ardian Preci to unpack what investors are truly looking for in early-stage startups. Moving beyond the surface-level idea, Zach emphasizes that great founders are defined by their ability to execute, adapt, and deeply understand the problem they are solving.

The conversation explores key elements that shape investment decisions: strong and coachable teams, clear problem–solution fit, and early signs of traction or real-world validation. Zach highlights that investors are not just betting on ideas, they are betting on people who can navigate uncertainty and turn vision into reality.

They also discuss the importance of how founders should think about market size and scalability, and why clarity in communication can make or break an investor’s interest. Additionally, the episode touches on the role of local entrepreneurial ecosystems, including Auxilium Worcester, in supporting founders through mentorship, connections, and resources.

Overall, the episode offers practical insights for founders looking to raise capital, helping them understand how to position themselves, their product, and their vision in a way that resonates with investors.