5 takeaways from a deep tech startup Founder—6 months of runway behind

We have been working with our data platform for a while now. Software development is progressing extremely well, as well is our business development. When starting from scratch there are however certain pain points we have also encountered. Here is a list of takeaways, that have helped us.

1. Team is everything. It starts with recruiting the right mixture in terms of skills and mindset. I always vote for attitude and motivation. And while working together there is always someone to talk to and get a different viewpoint. It is simple and at the same time challenging. It is about people with with feelings and emotions.
2. Ask for help. Nobody can know what is going on unless it is spoken out. I have gotten so much support from our Board of Directors, Customers, Advisories, Partners and friends. And of course our whole team is always there to help. Support is available and good deeds are rewarded, in one way or another.
3. Business is brutal. Therefore it is essential to deeply love what you are doing. Otherwise it will surely not work out in the mid-long term. Revenues and cash are needed and you’ll need to work your ass off to grab your share of those.
4. Be open. There is always a new opportunity waiting for realisation. New tech is coming and old one is abandoned. New companies are formed and some are dying. Generally you’ll need to be there where movement happens. I have got great leads and emerging partnerships in random places. Being open and alertive is the key.
5. Keep your act together. Sleep, exercise, eat well. Pay attention to details while moving with your vision and goals. Listen what is being said and what is not being said. There are disappointments along the way, it is all part of this game. And when successes arise, enjoy them together.

This is a good list of energy providers for our company. I will update new insights regularly here as it is also good to have a testimony for us. This vehicle is moving so fast that self-reflection needs to be slighly enforced. We believe in sharing as good things come out from communties and networks.