How to Make Pittsburgh a Startup Hub

Paul Graham’s essay How to Make Pittsburgh a Startup Hub argues that Pittsburgh can realistically become a startup hub.

Attracting Young Talent is Foundational

“Startups are made of people, and the average age of the people in a typical startup is right in that 25 to 29 bracket.” Pittsburgh’s growing percentage of this demographic is the crucial foundation.

The Food Scene Signals Promise

The “youth-driven food boom” demonstrates appeal to young professionals. Independent restaurants create neighborhood character that attracts this demographic.

Historic Architecture as Asset

19th-century buildings offer affordable housing in a place people want to live. Strict historic preservation correlates with economic thriving.

CMU as Competitive Advantage

Unlike SF (where Stanford is suburban), Pittsburgh’s university sits downtown. CMU should become the world’s best university—talent magnetism matters more than any “innovation program.”

The Investor Gap

Pittsburgh lacks mature investors, but this matters less with cheaper startup costs, crowdfunding, and programs like Y Combinator.

My Takeaway

Success requires patience but offers no downside risks. Deepen what already makes the city attractive.

What makes your city startup-friendly? I’d love to hear at persdre@gmail.com.