The AI-Powered Future of Corporate Innovation

Founders Future

In this episode of Founders Future, with host Jae Carnacion, we sit down with Ron Brumbarger, founder of Struinova, to explore how he's redefining corporate innovation through AI-driven consulting. Drawing from his experience building and exiting multiple companies (including Apprentice University and BitWise Solutions), Ron shares why he created Struinova to help mid-market businesses navigate what he calls the "innovation estuary"—that murky space between a company and its customers where breakthrough ideas emerge. He reveals how his unique "Innovation as a Service" model combines AI tools like MEMENTO (his proprietary framework) with hands-on training to help executives develop ambidextrous organizations capable of balancing today's demands with tomorrow's opportunities.

Ron also dives into Struinova's "teaching hospital" approach—where clients actively learn innovation mindsets while building portfolios of new products and services—and why he's betting on strategic partnerships over traditional marketing. From his contrarian take on guarantees ("We can't promise outcomes, but we promise our best effort") to his global ambitions (including a potential speaking gig in Berlin), Ron offers a masterclass in building resilience through innovation. His closing advice? "The best day to plant a tree was yesterday—the second-best day is today. Go get the shovel."