Dcode’s Post

Last week I got to spend time at the Stanford Research Institute where ARPANET sent the first message over the web from UCLA to Stanford. At that time each computer was the size of a small house and the simple message “LOGIN” apparently crashed the network. Stanford only received the first two letters. Look how far we’ve come… I couldn’t help but feel like we’re on the verge of another massive shift with the advancement of AI. Just as they were back then, we’re in the midst of another historic push forward. Michael Downing and his team at MSDV along with Revere brought together 200 emerging GPs and LPs to talk about the future of venture capital. Some takeaways (that I think are broadly applicable): 1. In this environment, jumping on a plane and meeting an investor/prospect face to face is invaluable and can be what sets you apart from your competition. 2. It’s not enough to simply have capital anymore, just like start-ups, you need a rock solid differentiation. What’s your capital (+)? 3. People are bullish on technology accelerating us out of this down market (we’ll innovate our way out). 4. If you’ve found a way to succeed over the last year, you’ll reap the rewards over the next 5-10. 5. As channels continue to get busier, network introductions are the name of the game. Many folks said they won’t take a meeting with a GP or a new vendor unless it comes recommended from someone they know, respect and trust. Thanks to all who organizers for a great event and shout out to the panellists: Amit S Bhatti, Anup Swamy, Katie Kelly, Pete Soderling, Suzanne Fletcher and Rishi Taparia - well done 👏

Yesterday, I had the privilege of moderating a “think tank” discussion with the Austin Venture Association and Linnify on the pulse of “innovation” in Austin. Hosted at the University of Texas’ Engineering School’s Innovation Center, the room was abuzz with insights, excitement, and differing perspectives. In attendance were leaders of diverse backgrounds: from company leaders, industry consultants, investors, and bright minds from UT’s Engineering School and Business School. The dialogue focused around Austin’s legacy as a cradle of innovation, tracing back the origins of our tech boom and examining our present-day success stories. A significant revelation was the nuanced way companies, depending on their stage - be it startup, growth phase, or well-established corporations - perceive and harness innovation. It’s important to recognize that we don’t function as a single tech community like in the past. But this diversity sectors, company size, and leadership styles in thought and action is our strength. As our local tech companies innovate, so does our community, continually adapting and thriving. But there was talk about a looming recession (still on the minds of investors and companies) and how that could reset some of the norms in tech over the past decade. There was also talk about the legendary civic leaders like George Kozmetsky, Pike Power, and others who were always innovating, looking ahead, being accessible, and showing up at community functions. The question was asked “who are the men and women of the next generation of civic leaders?” It is exciting to realize that as Austin’s tech community, we’ve not just grown, but evolved. And in this evolution lies our promise for an even brighter, innovative future. As I work to plan the Austin Technology Council’s “CEO/C-Suite Summit” on November 6th…. We will be talking about a lot of theses same topics. I am asking my friends in Austin tech company leadership (you know who you are!!) to please sign up for this event. We need your voice to be part of these conversations. #austin #austintech #innovation #community

Are accelerators actually worth it? 🤔 I left Google to join ZINC. The biggest benefits for me were: #1 Being around those who have taken the plunge: there's one thing being around like-minds, it's another being around those who are seriously committed. Everyone has left established and well-paid jobs. They have to make it work. #2 Sense of structure: when you're starting out, there is sooo much to do. It can be overwhelming. You don't know where to start. Being in a formal programme helps you think about what needs to be done, step by step. #3 Access to mentors - whether through workshops or 1:1s, growth programmes like Virgin StartUp, The NEF+ Programme - Centre for Entrepreneurs and ZINC, give you incredible access to people who have been there and done it. Mentors you probably wouldn't have access to. They open the door to domain and sector experts. However, accelerators aren't for everyone. I spoke to Tim Bailey(CEO of The NEF+ Programme - Centre for Entrepreneurs) and Saalim Chowdhury (MD of Techstars) to discuss both perspectives. The link is in the comments. I'm Harish, the founder of Goodspeed, we design and develop digital products without code 📩

"Delighted to announce that I've successfully completed the Professional Diploma in Product Led Growth with Silicon Valley Veteran Dekker! 🚀💼 This intensive program has deepened my understanding of product-led strategies and equipped me with invaluable insights from industry experts. Excited to leverage this knowledge to drive growth and innovation in my career. #ProductLedGrowth #ProfessionalDevelopment #SiliconValley"

As a scientist aiming to be an entrepreneur, I, as a diverse and empowered female founder in Northern Ireland, have embarked on a mission to revolutionize the world of science and business with my innovative venture, Gran Lab. Buckle up, because here are my first 5 uber-cool learnings I've gained along the way: 💯 Embrace Your Scientific Superpowers: Science is my secret weapon! As a founder, my scientific background has infused Gran Lab with a magic blend of creativity and data-driven prowess that sets us apart. 💯 Lab Coat & Laptop: Rocking both lab coats and laptops has become my signature style! From conducting groundbreaking experiments to crafting compelling pitches, versatility is the name of the game. 💯 Grant Competitions are the New Science Showdowns: Winning grant competitions has been an exhilarating science showdown where we showcase our innovative ideas and secure crucial funding to fuel our quest for greatness! 💯 Accelerate at Warp Speed: Local and national accelerators have accelerated Gran Lab at warp speed. Surrounding ourselves with brilliant minds and disruptive ideas has turbocharged our journey to success, and hopefully, we will continue on this trajectory. 💯 Data is the Trending Accessory: Data is not just a buzzword; it's the hottest accessory in town! Analyzing metrics, customer feedback, and market trends keeps us ahead of the competition. 💯 Diversity is Our Superpower: Embracing diversity isn't just trendy; it's our secret superpower! Different perspectives bring a kaleidoscope of ideas that unleash the full potential of Gran Lab. 💯 Experiment, Iterate, Succeed: Like a true scientist, I've learned that experimentation is the key to innovation. We iterate fearlessly, knowing that each iteration brings us closer to achieving greatness. As a scientist-turned-founder, these trendy learnings have propelled Gran Lab to new heights, but our journey is far from over, and with a dash of innovation, a pinch of scientific flair, and an unwavering spirit, we're destined to conquer new frontiers and make a profound impact on the world! #womeninstem #diversefounders #femalefounders

📅 Save the Date On 14 March 2024, dive with us into the world of Entrepreneurial Universities and their impact on regional development. 🌐 Discover how universities are reshaping their roles, fostering innovation, and contributing to society. Don't miss the insights on tech transfer and innovative practices! 🚀 Register now👉https://bit.ly/3uiBulV

#interregeurope #webinar 'On 14 March 2024, the Policy Learning Platform is hosting a webinar on the topic of entrepreneurial universities: spinoffs and technology transfer. During this webinar, we will explore how public policies can contribute to spinoffs and the commercialisation of research results. This will be done through good practices on entrepreneurial universities and explore the latest policy findings from policymakers and experts."

The Unicorn Kingdom: Pathfinder Awards (UKPA) are now open to #startup companies specialising in Artificial Intelligence (AI), Connected & Automated Mobility (CAM) Technology, Cyber Security and Digital Trade Solutions from across Africa. Winners will receive a tailormade programme to help scale up and grow their business in the UK, including industry meetings, VIP events and expert business growth support.   Officially announced by the Secretary of State for DBT, Rt Hon Kemi Badenoch MP, at London Tech Week on 13 June 2023, the Awards builds on the success of the previous Tech Rocketship Awards (TRAs). The last Awards generated an incredible turnout of applicants and Plan A, Swapcard, and SeeTrue AI are just a few of the remarkable companies that have participated and have gone on to establish thriving operations in the UK!   Start-up companies with ambitions to grow globally in the AI, Connected & Automated Mobility (CAM) Technology, Cyber Security and Digital Trade Solutions sectors are eligible to apply for a chance to pave their way into the UK’s thriving tech sector, valued at $1 trillion. Who is eligible to apply? We invite scale-up companies with #technology solutions that address real-world problems to register. What are the Categories for Entry? #ArtificialIntelligence (AI) #CyberSecurity Connected and Automated Mobility (CAM) Technology #Digital Trade Solutions What are the benefits?   Businesses who are successfully shortlisted will have access to DBT’s Global Entrepreneurs Programme who will deliver a series of masterclass sessions looking at pitching, category deep dives and insights on what operating in the UK is really like. As a winner in your category, you'll not only receive a tailor-made programme to help launch your business in the UK, including introductions and meetings with industry experts and government sector specialists organised by the DBT, you'll also receive exposure and recognition through promotional activities run by the DBT to accelerate your growth.  What is the submission period? The UKPA closes on the 30th of April 2024 at 11:59pm (GMT). Participation in the awards is free. How to register? To register your interest and learn more about the Unicorn Kingdom: Pathfinder Awards, please visit the campaign site at great.gov.uk/ukpa Don't miss this opportunity to showcase your business and launch your technology on a global stage!

Silicon Valley Syndrome: Silicon Valley, synonymous with booming tech and venture capital, isn't just a hub of innovation—it's also a case study in economic impact. A recent study delves deep into how the high-tech sector's growth affects regional economies, echoing phenomena like the Dutch Disease. Key insights include: 1) The influx of venture capital in Silicon Valley often leads to fewer establishments and jobs in traditional sectors. 2) There's a marked increase in non-trade sectors like local services due to higher disposable incomes. 3) Despite economic growth, there's a significant rise in income inequality and living costs. PS. check out 🔔 for a winning pitch deck the template created by Silicon Valley legend, Peter Thiel https://lnkd.in/ejp-Bhnu

📣 2.0 DROP ALERT: for those of you who couldn’t make our workshop last week at Austin Startup Week OR for those of you wanting more! :arrow_down: we’ve dropped two limited time accelerators – a time boxed collective push to get to your 2.0 🚀 CAREER CLIQUE: this is for you if ⤵️ 👥 you’re looking to find more alignment in your career 👥 you want to be more intentional with your career moves in 2024 👥 you’re a seasoned professional looking for your next passion project REDEFINE the SEARCH: for those on the job hunt ⤵️ ⚡️ you feel totally stuck where you are ⚡️ the job search feels like a series of dead ends ⚡️ you are quick applying to jobs on LinkedIn intentionally curated by our co-founders + career strategists with your needs in mind – s/o Lynn Luong + Garrett Evans give us 90 min each week after work for 4 weeks and we’ll show you just how much is possible 💫 to learn more check out our site: https://www.the20.co/drops #austinstartupweek #the20collective #accelerator #jobsearch #opentowork #passionproject #careeradvice