BestStartup.ca’s Post

#Startups are not just participants but pioneers in the intersection between #blockchain and Web3 technologies 💡 For those trying out these waters 🔦 the journey ahead involves much more than #innovation —it’s about ensuring the long-term economic 💲 viability of their ventures. ✔ Read more about growing economically sustainable startups in #Web3 here: https://lnkd.in/dNbvhZRm

Investors don’t always know what’s best for the founder. I spoke with a founder today who shared some insightful clashes with a VC that had reached out to them. Here are a couple of key points 👀 : A VC told them not to bother with applying for a grant and aim for VC money instead. The initial end-users they wanted to target didn’t align with what the VC wanted. The founder wanted to be incremental, moving from A → B → C. The VC, on the other hand, wanted to go immediately to C with solely capital and technical advisors. Here's the reality: VCs are investors, not founders. Most VCs have never "been there, done that" and don’t understand what a founder’s problems actually are. VCs want rapid growth, but the majority of startups aren’t able to provide that. For VCs, it’s a gamble game where they are fine with just 1 out of 10 startups succeeding. For founders, it’s probably not a gambling game. In reality, solely monetary capital isn’t enough to ensure the success of a company – as we know that 70% of funded startups fail. More than just monetary support is needed for startups. This is exactly what we're doing at Nytrogen, E11evate, and Borderless Blockchain Alliance

📈 As a founder, the odds are against you 👇 Great article summarizing statistics around startup failure: https://lnkd.in/g3R2tkmc Some less-known takeaways: 1️⃣ 20% startups fail after 12 month, 30% after 2 years, 50% after 5 years and 70% after 10 years 2️⃣ Failure rate depends on the country the startup is created and developed: 60% failure rate in UK vs. 90% in Canada and India 3️⃣ Failure rate varies per industry: 50%-53% failure rate for gaming, retail, construction and manufacturing vs. 95% for blockchain and crypto 4️⃣ Fundraising: 60% of those who secure pre-seed funding fall short while only 1% of those who go all the way to series C fail. But fundraising call also leave founders with no cash out.... 58% of startup launch with less than $25K Would you pick a startup idea to optimize your odds, or follow your passion against them? Leave a comment below 👇

In 2022, an ambitious Web3 startup emerged with the goal of transforming the digital landscape. Founded by a group of passionate blockchain enthusiasts, they aimed to create a decentralized platform for exchanging digital assets and services. With a compelling vision and solid investor backing, they successfully raised $5 million in initial funding. ▶ A Promising Start The launch of the platform was met with great enthusiasm. Its innovative approach and user-friendly interface quickly attracted over 100,000 users within the first few months. The team worked tirelessly to enhance features and secure new partnerships, fostering a thriving user base. ▶Challenges in User Retention Despite the initial success, the startup soon encountered significant challenges. Users began to notice that the platform lacked unique features compared to competitors. Key functionalities like integration with popular wallets and robust security measures were missing, leading to user dissatisfaction and attrition. ▶Struggling with Monetization Although the startup experienced a strong initial influx of users, the team failed to establish a sustainable monetization model. Attempts to introduce premium subscriptions and transaction fees fell short of expectations. Consequently, the revenue generated was insufficient to cover operational costs and support further development. ▶The Closure By the end of 2023, the startup announced its closure. Despite substantial investments and early triumphs, it couldn't retain its user base or achieve financial sustainability. The founders expressed hope that their journey would serve as a cautionary tale for other Web3 startups. ▶Lessons from this Startup: 🔴Innovation and Uniqueness: Ensure your platform offers unique and valuable features. 🔴Security: Prioritize high levels of data and transaction security. 🔴Monetization: Develop a sustainable revenue model from the outset. 🔴User Retention: Actively listen to user feedback and address issues promptly. Join the Conversation! Share your stories of success and failure in the Web3 world. Use our insights to avoid the pitfalls that this startup faced. Your experiences can inspire others and help build the successful projects of the future. #Web3 #Startup #Innovation #Blockchain #Decentralization #FutureOfInternet

↳ Discovering the Keys to Crypto Startup Success with Palcoin Building a successful startup isn’t just about an idea; it’s about combining the right elements to stand the test of time. At Palcoin, we’re dedicated to supporting crypto ventures with the resources, funding, and community backing they need to thrive. Here’s what we’ve found are the key factors for success and how we work to empower promising projects from the ground up. ↳ Strong Team & Leadership Behind every breakthrough project is a solid team with visionary leadership. Palcoin connects with startups led by experts who understand the crypto landscape, enabling them to drive innovation and navigate challenges. ↳ Innovative Technology Technology in the crypto world changes fast. Staying ahead requires more than just a good idea — it needs continuous innovation. Palcoin backs projects that push technological boundaries, allowing our investors to stay at the forefront of blockchain advancements. Sustainable Business Model Success in crypto isn’t only about rapid growth; it’s about building models that last. Palcoin looks for projects with robust business structures, ensuring they’re set for long-term success and capable of adapting to future market shifts. ↳ Community Support A strong community is invaluable to any project. At Palcoin, we believe in giving startups access to a community of engaged supporters and investors, creating a powerful network that champions their journey. ↳ Strategic Partnerships Palcoin helps startups form strategic alliances, amplifying their reach and resilience. These partnerships provide essential resources, helping startups expand sustainably in a competitive environment. Join Palcoin, and discover the next big thing in crypto as we support projects designed to shape the future. Invest with purpose, and let’s build something transformative together.

In the world of Web3, are we fooling ourselves? 🤔 Every other day, a new Web3 startup shows up, claiming to revolutionize their industry. But let’s cut to the chase. Many of these so-called "game-changers" are drowning in hype and delusional promises. They rely on flashy giveaways to gain user counts. Once those airdropped tokens hit wallets, they're quickly cashed out. No loyalty, no belief in the vision. Investors? Often misled by impressive metrics. A million Twitter followers or a large user base can be misleading. Without the lure of tokens, will these fair-weather users stick around? Let's be honest. Sadly, Web3 and DeFi have become more about quick profits than genuine innovation. Yes, there are a few sincere projects, but they’re rare gems in a sea of schemes. As investors, we need to demand honesty and transparency. The focus can’t just be on impressive numbers. Show us your business model! What’s the plan after the tokens are distributed? How will you sustain revenue and keep users engaged? Here's my advice to these Web3 startups: Stop the pretense. We don’t need more tokens without real use cases or blockchain solutions in search of problems. The world is ready for true innovators who can look beyond tokenomics and deliver lasting value. It's time to elevate the game! Or will you make way for the genuine players? I'd love to hear about your experiences with these issues. Have you encountered any Web3 startups that defied the norm and provided real value? Share your thoughts in the comments below. #web3 #startups

Tired of blockchain buzz? Let's make it work for your startup! ↓ Hey Entrepreneurs! Are you tired of hearing the word "blockchain" thrown around like it's some secret club you're not cool enough to be a part of? Well, buckle up because we're about to spill the beans and make you the coolest kid on the entrepreneurial block! First off, blockchain isn't just for the tech wizards or the finance gurus. It's like a LEGO set for your startup – it's what you make of it that counts. This magical tool is all about making transactions (of all kinds) quicker, cheaper, and, let's face it, way cooler. Imagine a world where you don't have to wait for ages to get things approved or pay a small fortune in fees just to move your own money. Blockchain is like your entrepreneurial fairy godmother, but instead of turning pumpkins into carriages, it turns your efficiency nightmares into a dream come true. "Why should I care?" I hear you ask. Well, because it's like upgrading from a flip phone to a smartphone. Sure, you can make calls with both, but can you really live without your apps and camera? Blockchain technology gives your startup superpowers: transparency, security, and speed. Still thinking it's too complicated? Think of it as a potluck dinner. Everyone brings a dish (data), and it's all laid out on the table (the blockchain) for guests (users) to enjoy. No one can tamper with the food because, well, everyone is watching. Simple, right? So, before you go back to the Stone Age of doing business, remember that blockchain is not just a buzzword; it's a ticket to the efficiency express. And who doesn't want to ride first class? Ready to transform your startup with blockchain but don't know where to start? Fear not! Visit www.solutionvalley.com for the ABCs of blockchain for businesses. Your startup journey is about to get a whole lot smoother. Let's demystify the tech and make it work for you. Dive in now at www.solutionvalley.com #theentrepreneurmindset #productdevelopment #startuptips #MVPs #innovations #entrepreneurship #webdevelopment #AppDevelopmentTips #businessowner #itoutsourcing #technologynews #innovationleadership #AI #powertools #uiuxdesign #designinspiration #learningstyles #startupstories #EntrepreneurshipJourney #FoundersDay #solutionvalley #SaaS #blockchain

Is European tech funding favoring big-name sectors while ignoring emerging innovators? 😤 1️⃣ The EU has just granted €1.8 million to 15 startups to combat online misinformation using blockchain. This is excellent for firms like AI-MetaBloQ and Compellio, but what about other emerging fields? Full details available: https://lnkd.in/eKfrwU2h 2️⃣ NGI Sargasso will fund over 90 projects with up to €100,000 each. Their OnCampus program includes business guidance and access to a network of major stakeholders. Will this holistic support actually drive innovation, or is it just more red tape? Catch the info here: https://lnkd.in/dtU4CHZE 3️⃣ According to the EU Funding Portal, several calls for startups in energy-intensive industries aim to enhance competitiveness. Opportunities range from Social Economy SMEs to AI and health solutions. But are these broad calls making it harder for niche startups to stand out? More info: https://lnkd.in/e7A7ZMwF 4️⃣ Cascade Funding program supports innovative solutions in the Next Generation Internet field. Selected projects could receive up to €150,000. Is this enough for groundbreaking advancements, or are they just spreading the funds too thin? Read more: https://lnkd.in/ezRVRjdZ 5️⃣ Germany's startup DC Connected Car secured €2.1M, while Dcubed landed €4.4M. Is Germany hogging the funding pie? Time for other regions to get their share of investment. More on funding rounds here: https://lnkd.in/dPbQmjqt Will you pivot your startup to tap into these funds? 🧐 Your thoughts? Share below! 👇 🫡 𝐁𝐮𝐢𝐥𝐝 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐮𝐩 𝐧𝐨𝐰: https://femaleswitch.app 🔈🔈🔈 🫵 𝐅𝐨𝐫 𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐮𝐩 𝐚𝐝𝐯𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐟𝐢𝐫𝐬𝐭 𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐞 𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐩𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐮𝐫𝐬, 𝐡𝐢𝐭 𝐅𝐎𝐋𝐋𝐎𝐖 #startups #femalentrepreneur #zerocode #ai

Here are the 15 fastest-growing open-source startups in Europe, according to Runa Capital. Runa Capital publishes quarterly the top trending open-source startups by star growth at GitHub. This methodology, the Runa Open Source Startup (ROSS) Index, has stayed the same since 2020 and is usually a good predictor of new VC rounds. I reviewed all four indexes released in 2023 and selected the top 15 European startups from the list. Here are five things I learned: 1️⃣ France and Germany provided the most significant number of startups (4 each), followed by the UK (3). 2️⃣ Most projects are AI-related, either leveraging AI or used to power AI applications. 3️⃣ Blockchain projects are still growing. 4️⃣ Croatia is home to two projects, showing that you can start OSS from everywhere in Europe. 5️⃣ Y Combinator is the number 1 investor when the startups raise funding. Ping tldraw, Pythagora (YC W24), Nextcloud, Sismo, Qdrant, Wasp, bloop, NetBird, Nebuly, Windmill, Manticore Search, ZITADEL, Massa Labs, Lago, Terramate

💰💰💰💰 👇 💰Crypto Startups Thrive: Record 860M in VC Funding in October, +30% from September- Infrastructure accounts for $609m, up 30% and gaming up 75% to $110m. https://lnkd.in/d7PDhwa2 💰Dune, the crypto analytics platform,  acquires a16z-backed smlXL to expand real-time blockchain data offering https://lnkd.in/erXwKwX9 💰Crypto-AI startup 0G Labs raises $40 million seed and receives $250 million token purchase commitment Zero Gravity Labs (0G Labs or 0GL), a crypto-AI startup developing infrastructure for a decentralized AI system - funding included a $40 million seed round raised by the Labs and a $250 million token purchase commitment received by the 0G Foundation, the independent governance body for the 0G Protocol.   Investors include Hack VC, Delphi Digital, OKX Ventures, Samsung Next, Bankless Ventures, Animoca Brands and many others https://lnkd.in/ehWb2cUz 💰REKT Raises $1.5M Seed Round Backed by Angels and Community, Following Sell-Out Success of Rekt Drinks Funded exclusively by angel investors and the community without institutional venture capital, ie. a loyal and growing network. https://lnkd.in/eWXA9zQm   💰Interesting read: Snowden Sounds Alarm: Is Venture Capital Stifling Crypto’s Decentralization? https://lnkd.in/gU4pzn_j 💰Crypto-AI startup Pond raises $7.5 million in seed funding Pond develops a decentralized AI model layer for the crypto space raised $7.5 million in seed funding   by Archetype, Coinbase Ventures, Near Foundation and others. https://lnkd.in/eUxGnfPH 💰Bitcoin Rollup Citrea Aims to Make BTC a Programmable Asset With ZK Proofs, Raises $14M Series A ..allowing greater utility on the Bitcoin blockchain is one of almost existential importance https://lnkd.in/dJX8Z58Y 💰Privacy-Focused Project Nillion Secures $25 Million Funding Led by Hack VC https://lnkd.in/dpEPn5gT 💰Layer 1 blockchain developer Pharos raises $8 million in seed funding ..led by Lightspeed Faction and Hack VC.   .. is building a new Layer 1 blockchain tailored to fintech use cases, such as real-time payments and real-world assets. https://lnkd.in/ecb_CHuH 💰Binance Labs ventures into DeSci with BIO Protocol investment The decentralized science DAO supports healthcare efforts that might otherwise not attract sufficient funding and gives stakeholders a say in their management.  https://lnkd.in/e4XAabKY 💰vlayer Labs raises $10 million in pre-seed funding to build Ethereum's 'Solidity 2.0' ..from a16z CSX, Credo Ventures, BlockTower etc.   Developer of “verifiable data infrastructure” or “Solidity 2.0,” which will introduce new functions to Ethereum’s programming language. https://lnkd.in/eE9FEsYW 💰Bitwise Inc acquires Ethereum staking provider Attestant and its $4 billion in staked assets The acquisition brings total Bitwise client assets above $10 billion. Attestant specializes in providing non-custodial Ethereum staking for financial institutions, family offices, HNWI https://lnkd.in/eT45fDBX