Founder Highlight: Kate Dilligan

By Allison and Maria
October 2, 2023

As we launch our new monthly series called "Leadership Redefined", our first spotlight couldn't be more timely or meaningful. This series is a cornerstone of our commitment to redefine new patterns of leadership by showcasing the unique and authentic leaders we are privileged to work with. Kicking off during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we are thrilled to introduce you to Kate, a true force of nature and the visionary founder behind Cooler Heads.

Kate's journey began with her own personal battle against breast cancer, an experience that not only profoundly shaped her but also inspired the creation of her groundbreaking med-tech company. From our first meeting, when Cooler Heads was merely an idea in a PowerPoint presentation, we knew Kate was someone extraordinary. Her relentless drive and grit aren't just admirable traits; they're qualities we've witnessed in action, especially as she's navigated numerous roadblocks.

Kate also possesses a keen business acumen and an exceptional ability to adapt to new challenges. Her growth mindset has been instrumental in taking Cooler Heads from a concept to FDA clearance and commercialization. Remarkably, the company is on track to achieve 7-digit revenue less than a year after its commercial launch. It's this unique blend of resilience, business savvy, and adaptability that makes Kate such an exceptional leader.

We're incredibly proud to work closely with her and are eager to share some of the wisdom she's accumulated along her unique journey, particularly as we honor and recognize Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

Kate Dilligan, Founder of Cooler Heads

Q: What inspired you to start your company, and how has that initial spark evolved over time?

Kate: Cooler Heads was born out of my experience as a cancer patient. I was diagnosed with Stage 2B breast cancer in October of 2016. I had no family history of breast cancer, and the diagnosis completely took me by surprise. I realized as a patient that your medical team is set up to give you outstanding care to treat the disease, but when it comes to side effect management, you're on your own. Cooler Heads is using technology to build evidence-based products, content, and services that cancer patients and survivors need to manage the complex and daunting side effects of treatment.

Q: What unique challenges have you faced, and how did you overcome them?

Kate: Having never been a founder before, it's hard to gauge whether the really tough challenges are unique to me or the company. As a solo female founder of a med-tech company who is not an engineer and didn't come from the medical tech industry, I faced skepticism early on. I've dealt with this by working hard to surround myself with subject matter experts. I don't have to have the answers, but I have the skills to go and find them, vet them, and implement them.

Q: What are some of your core values, and how have you incorporated them into the mission of your company?

Kate: Honesty is a core value I have. We've built great trust with our team, customers, investors, and end-users. When you're building products for cancer patients, being honest about what to expect is key. This honesty has been central to our success and has created a virtuous cycle of trust and credibility.

Q: What are the milestones you've achieved that you are most proud of since you started?

Kate: One of the biggest milestones for me was the day we were cleared by the FDA. Another was when our first patient went to see her medical oncologist before her final chemotherapy infusion and he was blown away that "she didn't look like a cueball." The last one I will mention here is when we won a $2M+ grant from The National Cancer Institute.

Q: Could you share some of your daily routines that keep you happy and healthy?

Kate: I'm a big fan of working out first thing in the morning. I have reprogrammed myself to go to bed and get up early. Having a workout in and a long walk with my dogs before 7 am really helps me stay grounded and attack the day.

Q: Can you highlight any initiatives your company is involved in, demonstrating your commitment to making a positive impact?

Kate: We're focused on increasing access to our technology. We work with non-profits who help offset the costs of scalp cooling for those whose insurance won't cover it and are unable to pay out of pocket. Additionally, we provide our accounts with free caps for indigent patients. We are also working hard to expand beyond Medicare coverage for scalp cooling so fewer patients face significant financial barriers to accessing this treatment. We believe all patients should have a choice as they go through chemo.

Q: What do you like about working with Crescent Ridge?

Kate: I like that I get partners in building the company who roll up their sleeves and get to work with me. It truly is more than a check - it is access to a broader network and a relationship with the principals in the firm. Startups are team sports, and I am lucky to have Allison and Maria suiting up for Cooler Heads.

Q: Is there any advice, final thoughts, or encouragement you'd like to offer to fellow founders within the Crescent Ridge community?

Kate: I would recommend that founders nurture their relationships with all their investors. Keep the lines of communication open and don't be afraid to ask for help.

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