Trent Mano (Convoi Ventures) \\ First to find and fund Utah's next breakout founders and startups In today’s episode, I talk with Trent Mano. Trent is a General Partner at Utah-based Convoi Ventures. We dive into the Utah startup community, Convoi’s specific approach, and the growth of AI startups. Here’s a closer look at the episode: Growing up in the Bay Area and serving as a financial advisor to startup founders. Convoi’s Utah-focused venture capital fund and its unique approach. Why they want to be the first check. Diversifying investments across FinTech, consumer tech, and Utah-based companies, with a focus on early-stage companies and value-add beyond check writing. Investor-founder relationships and the importance of vulnerability. Founders struggle with fear of failure and loss of identity after shutting down their businesses. AI-powered pitch competition at Utah Startup Week. AI startups and their potential for success. Early-stage funding challenges in the current market. Fundraising environment and founder traits for successful startups. Authenticity and community in investing and life. Resources: Website: https://www.convoiventures.com/ Trent’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trentmano/ Trent Twitter: https://twitter.com/TrentMano Convoi LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/convoi-ventures/