Meet the Fellows: Michael Aft

Michael Aft

Co-CEO, The New Paper

We’re excited to welcome Michael to MDLF! Michael is the Co-CEO of The New Paper and lives in Indianapolis.

About Michael:

I'm a proud Hoosier, a Chicago-style pizza enthusiast, and an extremely mediocre basketball player. Professionally, I'm the co-founder and co-CEO of a venture-backed digital media startup that aims to overcome sensationalism in the news. Personally, I love spending time with family and friends, exploring new cities, and somehow convincing my wife that she's not way out of my league.

What's your vision for Indiana? How does this relate to your decision to join the program?

The Midwestern US is, broadly speaking, primed to drive the next wave of historic growth in the US economy. With its combination of best-in-class talent, an unrivaled work ethic, a rapidly growing private sector, and a highly motivated public sector, Indiana is uniquely positioned to be at the forefront of that growth. I decided to join the MDLF because I believe that down to my core, and I want to help Indiana capitalize on the unbelievable breadth of opportunities in front of us.

What's your favorite quote?

“Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity”

What's something you're reading now?

Wait But Why, on the future of Artificial Intelligence.

Check out our blog to see more about our newest class of Fellows.