# Paul Damato

> Paul D’Amato is the Grand Rapids-based CEO and founding partner of Michigan Capital Network. A former retail-chain owner with computer engineering and MBA degrees, he has participated in more than 100 venture capital transactions and supports early-stage companies through venture funds, angel-investor networks and portfolio board roles.

- **Role:** Chief Executive Officer & Founding Partner at Michigan Capital Network
- **Organizations:** Michigan Capital Network, Grand Angels, Trout Creek Ventures
- **Education:** Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, MBA, with emphasis on M&A and analytical decision modeling, Northwestern University, Kellogg School of Management
- **Known for:** Built and sold a Midwest retail chain., Participated in more than 100 venture capital transactions, according to his Detroit Regional Chamber biography., Recognized in the investor category of the 2026 M&A Deals and Dealmakers Awards, as listed by Mercantile Bank.

## Career timeline

- **—** — Built a Midwest retail chain through organic growth and acquisitions and sold it to a strategic acquirer after fifteen years.
- **2020** — ACG biography identifies him as managing director of Grand Angels Venture Funds II and III and Trout Creek Ventures.
- **2021** — Became CEO of Michigan Capital Network in May, according to his Crunchbase profile.
- **2024** — MCN announced its affiliation with New Community Transformation Fund.
- **2025** — MCN and NAMC announced a strategic partnership for dual-use technology commercialization.
- **2026** — Participated in the Mackinac Policy Conference session on Michigan’s defense transformation.

## Achievements

- Built and sold a Midwest retail chain.
- Participated in more than 100 venture capital transactions, according to his Detroit Regional Chamber biography.
- Recognized in the investor category of the 2026 M&A Deals and Dealmakers Awards, as listed by Mercantile Bank.

## Latest updates

- **2026-02** — MCN welcomed Capital Community Angels and appointed Emily Sarata president of its Angel Association.
- **2026-03** — MCN promoted Meagan Malm to partner; D’Amato praised her investment instincts and organizational skills.
- **2026-05** — D’Amato spoke at the Mackinac Policy Conference about Michigan’s defense technology commercialization needs.

## Links

- Website: https://michigancapitalnetwork.com/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-damato-405536a/

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Profile page: https://yespress.io/paul-damato
Published by YesPress — https://yespress.io
Last updated: 2026-10-09