EP3.

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To share insights and learnings from startup program experiences to help improve support for founders across New Zealand.

Founder Backgrounds

• Thomas went through Young Enterprise in high school which led to Velocity at uni and then creative HQ's Venture Up program
• He has since worked at various startups and is now starting his own automated manufacturing business
• Lucy built an ethical fashion marketplace startup called Oni and went through Te Ōhaka's accelerator program
• She is now co-founder of an AI startup called Contented that is building tools for journalists

Q&A

Metrics for measuring startup program success beyond investment raised

• What are some metrics beyond investment raised that we can use to measure the value of startup programs?
  • Lucy suggests looking at metrics related to customer discovery and validation, such as the number of customer interviews conducted. Getting founders to talk to users is key.
  • Thomas suggests looking at roadmap planning and execution, such as days to deliver on planned tasks. This shows founder commitment and execution ability.

Support older investors can provide young founders

• What are some ways an older investor cohort can support young founders?
  • Lucy suggests providing tools and resources to make building easier, like templates, introductions to low-code platforms, and discounted business services.
  • Thomas suggests leveraging industry connections, like executives in incumbent industries being disrupted, to provide feedback and validation.

Ideal accelerator program for experienced founders

• What would an ideal accelerator program look like for experienced founders? (Mason Bleakley)
  • Thomas wants collaborators to bounce ideas off of and provide constructive feedback. A program should connect experienced founders with relevant domain experts.
  • Lucy wants hyper-focused programs with founders at similar stages. She suggests more workshops on practical skills like design and marketing versus startup theory.

Fostering community for founders after programs

• How can programs foster ongoing founder communities after the program ends? (Mason Bleakley)
  • Thomas emphasizes the need for relatable contacts who understand startups. A strong network provides support and future opportunities.
  • Lucy values brutal honesty from someone who pushes her thinking. She wants introductions to domain experts when needed.

Supporting professionals transitioning into startups