The ups and downs of entrepreneurship: Story of SAAply

SAAply is an acronym for Search Access Apply, a LinkedIn newsletter that covers open calls for funding, grants, and innovation challenges for startups, entrepreneurs, students, and academia. It is open to Indian and global applicants.

As the founder of SAAply, I wanted to help people find the right call for funding at the right time, all in one place. While working with innovators, they found it challenging to find open grants, as there were so many websites to visit, and sometimes the information was incomplete. After leaving Innovation-Technology Transfer Office Foundation for Innovation Technology Transfer , I contemplated working on this issue.

Later, during a talk, I mentioned this was one of the challenges, and the host suggested that I should find a solution to the problem. This was the trigger that led me to run a survey with startups, entrepreneurs, and ecosystem enablers to understand key problems and what kind of solution was required. I received a lot of feedback and took the first step by launching the first newsletter in August 2022. However, I was slow in gathering information and posting it. I was pulled in different directions, I was considering building a platform, but the investment in terms of time and resources made me put it on hold.

I received varied advice and input on whether to build LinkedIn first before moving to the platform or vice versa. Some even advised posting on all media platforms. Over time, I realized that focusing on one media was essential. I started small with a LinkedIn newsletter and have been iterating and improving it over time. The goal is still to build a comprehensive platform, but I am taking it one step at a time and learning as I go.

Despite facing numerous challenges, I have remained resilient and focused on the unique value proposition. One instance that stands out is when a subscriber to SAAply started a similar initiative and began growing faster. To make matters worse, someone pointed out that I was doing the same thing as the other person. This left me feeling defeated and demotivated, causing me to stop posting for a while.

However, after two weeks of silence, I started receiving messages from people who appreciated my work and were eagerly awaiting the next newsletter. Some even reached out to inquire about open grants, while others motivated me by sharing my story and acknowledging my efforts. A few entrepreneurs even said that while others may copy my idea, they couldn't replicate the approach or plans.

This encouragement gave me the boost I needed to stand up again and resume posting regularly. I now only look at the bright side: doing my bit not what others are doing. I also have collaborated to broaden the access to SAAply, thank you to my collaborators who have supported me in this journey and bringing the open grants and funding opportunities to their network. Information on grants and funding opportunities in addition to SAAply's LinkedIn is also available through TeamStrategize - Investingintalent 's Newsletter and through reformingtimes .

Current status is that SAAply's subscriber base is growing, and I am now only focusing on growing the SAAply. I have been receiving compliments from people who want to post their grants on SAAply.

👉 Here are some important takeaways from SAAply's journey:

1. Perfection is the enemy of progress: Start small and iterate over time, rather than waiting for a perfect platform.

2. Resilience is key: Despite feeling defeated and demotivated, keep going, and working hard.

3. Focus on your unique value proposition: Even if others copy your idea, your approach and plans set you apart.

4. Build a community: Your growth and impact are a result of building a community of subscribers who appreciate the value you provide.

5. Don't be afraid to ask for help: Seek feedback, advice, and support when needed.

As a founder, I have made a tangible difference, and that is a truly fulfilling experience.Share your story of entrepreneurship, motivation and resilience! Let's build together.

Next Month's Newsletters will be talking about two important stakeholders of the technology transfer ecosystem. Stay Tuned!

Do you have a grant and want me to add to the Newsletter. Get in touch to discuss.

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