Founder Institute Italy’s Post

Do startup founders need mentors? Yes or No? I’ve been mentoring startups for years now, without even realising it. However I was doing it always under the umbrella of either my businesses or startup accelerators where I worked in London in the past. Never did I put myself out there as Alina Nilsson, mentor for startups. At the beginning of this year one of my professional goals was to become a mentor as an individual. I even added a task on my todo list (and never actually completed it) Call it universe, serendipity, magic, but soon I started getting requests. First from my network for individual sessions. And then from actual accelerators. So far I signed up with 3 programmes, and today I want to mention one of them. I’ve started my collaboration with ULTRA.VC team over a year ago, when they joined my conference EMERGE as a partner. Back then I did a workshop for their first cohort about fundraising and pitch decks, and 6 months later I offered expert’s office hours for their next cohort. I’ve known the team behind Ultra VC probably for at least 5 years (ex Rockstart) and can highly recommend them. Guys focus on verticals that can make a significant impact on people's quality of life: - Personal & Mental Wellbeing - Education and Lifelong Learning - Future of Work - New Governance - FinTech with Impact - Ethical use of AI Applications are still open until 11 August. And I am happy to say that I will be mentoring one of the startups this time. Programme is held online. If you have any questions about the programme, ping Daria Reutovich, Yury Shlahanau or Nikita Yuriev. #mentor #startup #accelerator 

Avra Capital is quietly becoming the go-to program for scaling startups, helping founders tackle growth challenges through tailored, top-tier mentorship. 🎓 Elite founder school: Avra offers a highly selective program for post-Series A startups, focusing on executive hiring, fast scaling, and long-term strategy. 📚 Y Combinator roots: Founded by Anu Hariharan, Avra’s team built on lessons learned from YC Continuity, creating a unique growth-stage education program. 💼 Tactical expertise: Instructors are experienced CEOs who guide founders on scaling teams, maintaining fast shipping, and planning financial strategies. 🏆 No-strings approach: Companies join Avra without investment obligations, though Avra is positioned to fund promising alumni based on their performance. 💰 Revolutionizing venture capital: Avra monetizes through VC but flips the script by proving its value to startups before making investments. #startups #venturecapital #leadership 🌍 Global reach: Avra sources startups globally through AI-driven tools, selecting companies from regions like Europe, India, and Latin America. 💡 Focused on scaling: Avra’s curriculum targets growth-phase challenges, such as executive team building, maintaining rapid shipping, and financial preparation for public markets. 🏅 Exclusive mentorship: Founders learn directly from top-tier executives in an off-the-record environment, ensuring candid lessons from real-world experience. 📊 Mini S-1 project: Startups complete a mini S-1 filing to sharpen their understanding of scaling, market positioning, and long-term growth potential. 🔁 Ongoing support: Even after the program, Avra alumni benefit from resources like private sessions, curated content, and access to a growing network of peers and experts. ♻️ Repost if you enjoyed this post and follow me, César Beltrán Miralles, for more curated content about leadership! Inside the Secret School for the World’s Best Founders https://lnkd.in/gvV3a_Fm

Greetings Connections! Two months ago I attended my first EDP session. Dr Aparajita Prasad, Founder and Director of MetaConnect Consulting and also Vice President at StartUp Buddy Services. She is an investor and mentor to start-ups and on advisory board of many incubators and accelerators. She also takes many leadership training sessions. She Heads the Women Entrepreneurs Network (WEN) in India and is on Board of Directors for IIMSociety.org. She is a well-known speaker and panellist at major events. Learning Highlights: Starting with the common question that arises after hearing the word "STARTUP": What is a Startup? A startup is a new business venture in its carly stages of development. typically founded by one or more entrepreneurs to develop a unique product or service and bring it to market. Startups often aim for rapid growth innovation, usually with the help of investors. Main Key takeaways: 1. Insights into Entrepreneurship. 2. Building a Startup Ecosystem. 3. Identifying Problems. 4. Creating and Validating Ideas. 5. Business Planning. 6. Financial Planning. 7. Go-To-Market Strategies. 8. Pricing Strategy. 9. Effective Pitching Techniques. 10. Understanding Incubators. 11. Learning about Accelerators. The most important lesson: "Your Network is Your Networth!"

🚀 Unlock Your Startup’s Potential: The Power of Accelerator Programs For startups looking to fast-track their growth and increase their visibility in a crowded market, joining an accelerator program can be a game-changer. Here’s why these programs are invaluable: 1. Expert Mentorship: Accelerators provide access to seasoned entrepreneurs and industry experts who offer mentorship, guidance, and invaluable insights that can help refine your business strategy and operations. 2. Capital Injection: Many accelerator programs offer seed investment in exchange for equity. This immediate financial boost can be critical for early-stage startups needing to scale operations quickly. 3. Networking Opportunities: Being part of an accelerator puts you in a community of fellow entrepreneurs, investors, and potential partners. The networking opportunities can lead to collaborations, additional funding, and new customer leads. 4. Structured Growth: Accelerators typically have a structured program that can help you focus on growth areas that are otherwise challenging to prioritize in the day-to-day running of a startup. 5. Increased Credibility: Graduating from a reputable accelerator program can significantly enhance your startup’s credibility, attracting further attention from investors and media. 6. Demo Days: Most accelerators culminate in a demo day where startups present their business to a room full of investors and industry leaders. This is a unique opportunity to attract funding and press attention. 7. Tailored Resources: Beyond funding and mentorship, accelerators often provide startups with resources like co-working spaces, tech support, and legal counsel, which can be costly for a new business. 8. Learning Curve Reduction: Accelerators help you navigate common startup pitfalls, reducing your learning curve and helping you avoid costly mistakes. Joining an accelerator can dramatically alter the trajectory of your startup by providing the tools, resources, and networks needed to succeed. If you’re ready to accelerate your growth, explore which program aligns best with your business vision and goals. 🔗 Are you considering an accelerator for your startup, or have you graduated from one? I’d love to hear about your experiences and discuss how to maximize the benefits! If you are still looking for funding, we, at A1 Advisory can help. Simply fill in this form and we'll get back to you in 5 working days (more likely, less) - https://lnkd.in/dAJm-TYJ #StartupGrowth #BusinessAccelerator #StartupFunding #Entrepreneurship #BusinessMentorship #Networking #StartupLife #Innovation #FundingOpportunity

The startup ecosystem is undeniably more complex than traditional business models, presenting its own set of unique challenges. In my experience, one of the most effective ways to support startups is by fostering active communities that promote genuine collaboration among founders.

🚀 Just wrapped up an enlightening session by Nidhi Kachhawa, CEO of AIC-JKLU, on **startups** and the **startup ecosystem**! Here are my key takeaways: 🤔 1. **What defines a startup** and its unique characteristics 📝 2. Key components of the ecosystem: incubators, accelerators, investors, and mentors 🤝 3. **Challenges for startups**: funding, talent acquisition, and market validation 📊 4. The role of **innovation, scalability, and sustainability** in a startup’s success 💡 5. **Government support** and initiatives for startups 🏛️ 💬 Nidhi Kachhawa shared invaluable insights on key topics: 🚀 1. Navigating the startup journey from **ideation to scaling** 🚀 2. **Building a strong team** through skills, culture, and leadership 👥 3. Effective strategies for **pitching and fundraising** 💸 4. Using technology to gain a **competitive edge** 📈 5. Adapting to evolving **market trends** and consumer needs 📊 🎉 Highlights from the session included: 🎉 - An engaging **Q&A** with Nidhi Kachhawa 🤔 - Real-world examples of successful startups and their journeys 📈 - Networking opportunities with entrepreneurs and industry leaders 🤝 💡 Here are some **actionable tips** from the session: 💡 1. **Validate your idea** through market research and feedback 📊 2. Create a **solid business plan** with financial projections 📝 3. Prioritize **customer acquisition and retention** 📈 4. Stay **agile** in a rapidly evolving market 🔄 5. Build **strategic partnerships and collaborations** 🤝 #startups #startupecosystem #entrepreneurship #innovation #governmentinitiatives #leadership #fundraising #marketvalidation #networking #marketresearch #financialprojections #customeracquisition #agility #edp #strategicpartnerships #collaborations JECRC University

🌟 Unlock Your Potential with the DST-GDC Incubate Program! 🚀 Attention Innovators and Future Leaders! 📢 Are you ready to take your entrepreneurial dreams to the next level? The DST-GDC Incubate Program is inviting applications for its latest cohort! This is your chance to gain access to invaluable resources, mentorship, and funding opportunities that can turn your groundbreaking ideas into reality. 🔍 What they Offer: - Expert Mentorship: Work alongside industry leaders who are eager to share their insights and guide you through the startup landscape. - Networking Opportunities: Connect with like-minded entrepreneurs and expand your professional network. - Funding Support: Gain access to financial resources that can help kickstart your venture. - Workshops & Training: Enhance your skills through specialized workshops designed to equip you for success. At Bharat Consultings, we are dedicated to empowering the next generation of innovators. We believe that with the right support and guidance, anyone can turn their vision into a successful venture. 🗓️ Apply Now! Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity. Click the link to learn more and submit your application today. Let’s build a brighter future together! 💡✨ #DSTGDC #IncubateProgram #Innovation #Entrepreneurship #Startups #Mentorship #FutureLeaders #BharatConsultings

𝑾𝒉𝒚 𝑱𝒐𝒊𝒏 𝒂𝒏 𝑰𝒏𝒄𝒖𝒃𝒂𝒕𝒐𝒓? 𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝑰𝒎𝒑𝒂𝒄𝒕 𝒐𝒏 𝑺𝒕𝒂𝒓𝒕𝒖𝒑𝒔 Startup incubators are the launchpads for success, providing the resources and expertise to turn innovative ideas into sustainable businesses. Here’s why joining an incubator, like ours at ILLUMINATION Consulting Ltd., can be a game-changer: 🔹 Structured Growth Incubators help you develop a clear roadmap, from ideation to execution, avoiding common pitfalls that derail startups. 🔹 Access to Capital Finding funding can be challenging. Incubators connect you with investors who believe in your vision. 🔹 Skill Development Learn critical business skills: financial management, strategic planning, product development, and more. 🔹 Networking Opportunities Join a community of like-minded entrepreneurs, mentors, and industry leaders. 🔹 Enhanced Credibility Being part of a reputed incubator boosts your startup's reputation, making it easier to attract partners and customers. 🔹 Focus on Innovation With operational and logistical support, you can focus on what matters: building a great product or service. Your dream deserves a strong foundation, and that’s exactly what an incubator provides. At ILLUMINATION Consulting Ltd., we partner with entrepreneurs to unlock their full potential. 📩 Ready to start your journey? Let’s innovate together. #StartupGrowth #IncubatorBenefits #Entrepreneurship #InnovationJourney #ILLUMINATIONConsultingLtd

📍 Berlin @ Vali - Entrepreneurship Hub at ESMT ⏯️ How do we build startup ecosystems? And Why doing it? Today i had the pleasure to talk in front of 60+ Aspiring entrepreneurs based in Albania & Bosnia and Herzegovina & Ukraine (https://lnkd.in/eNtrTPzN) I shared why ecosystems matter more than ever in today’s business world. Whether you’re a startup, academic, or corporate leader, thriving ecosystems create unparalleled opportunities for innovation and growth. Sharing my story in Silicon Valley and of course citing this quote: 💡 “Silicon Valley isn’t just a location—it’s a mindset.” - Reid Hoffman 📈 Take Boston as a case study: In 2007, it faced hurdles like limited VC funding, a lack of startup-friendly policies, and fragmented innovation efforts. Fast forward to 2016, it became the #1 life sciences ecosystem globally, generating $2.7 billion in matching private investment and 15,000 jobs! 🚀 ✨ What made this transformation possible? 1️⃣ Bridging Gaps: Programs to train talent, support early-stage startups, and foster collaboration across stakeholders. 2️⃣ Big Thinking: A $1 billion investment catalyzed academia, industry, and government collaboration. 3️⃣ Orchestrating Ecosystems: Strategic convening spaces and grant programs cultivated a shared vision. 🤝 The Takeaway: Building networks isn’t optional; it’s essential. Time all organizations and founders need to be strategic about building its ecosystems and it start by identifying its gaps. (see ecosystem paper Thriving Innovation Ecosystem Paper.pdf: https://lnkd.in/eefYSqhs) 🔗 How are you building your ecosystem? Let’s share strategies and stories below! ⬇️ Btw, great learning what you guys are doing better Baris Efe Cc: Blendi Shima Kerim Šabić Sanja Miovcic Ekrem Nurovic Armela Duka Sanja Miovcic Gerald Dogani Blendi Shima Kushtrim Shala Ned Lomigora Hannah Whitlow Emir Osmanspahić Elvir Bećirović Elton Kërçiku Danish Adeel Tea Aleksi Thanks for invitation Ron SIBB and great working with you Nicola Filzmoser