The StairStep method: how early-stage startups build operational leverage one step at a time
The most common mistake I see with early-stage SaaS founders isn't that they're building the wrong things operationally. It's that they're building in the wrong order. The StairStep method exists to fix that — starting with an honest diagnostic before a single thing gets built.
The five things a founder should stop doing after closing a seed round
Just closed your seed round? Here are the five things founders need to stop doing — and what to build in their place.
What a fractional COO actually does (and what they don't) at a B2B SaaS startup
What does a fractional COO actually do at a B2B SaaS startup — and what's out of scope? A plain-language breakdown for pre-seed and Series A founders.
HOW MUCH DOES TECHSTARS INVEST?
Techstars offers a substantial investment to help startups thrive. The program provides up to $120,000, comprising a $20,000 equity investment for 6% in common shares and an optional $100,000 convertible note. This funding, combined with Techstars’ extensive mentorship and network, can be a game-changer for early-stage companies. My experience with Techstars Boulder in 2020 was invaluable, providing ongoing support and additional capital, proving the investment was worth every share of equity
Most Founders suck at selling
Many founders struggle with sales, often misunderstanding key aspects of the process. This article highlights four crucial realities: prospects are primarily concerned with their own problems, not your product; your solutions should align with their needs; focus on a few features that solve their specific issues; and treat discovery as an ongoing process. Effective selling involves understanding the buyer’s needs, priorities, and the monetary impact of their problems. By mastering these elements, founders can significantly improve their sales success.
WHAT IS TECHSTARS?
Going through Techstars was a transformative experience for my startup, Gondola. This global accelerator provides founders with unparalleled resources, mentorship, and a vast network. With programs in tech hubs worldwide, Techstars has invested in over 3,500 startups, empowering entrepreneurs across diverse industries. The intensive three-month program focuses on networking, execution, and fundraising, culminating in a Demo Day where startups pitch to investors. If you’re looking to elevate your startup, Techstars could be the game-changer you need.