The Art of the Startup: Turning Ideas into High-Growth Businesses Skillshare Original - Skillshare Course

Bill Reichert and I have partnered on countless new businesses over the years, guiding startups as professionals and investors. Our seed investment fund, Garage Technology Ventures, provided early support to major startups like Pandora, and we continue to meet hundreds of aspiring entrepreneurs each year. Needless to say, we've seen it all when it comes to business plans and launches. In this class, Bill and I provide access to the most powerful principles we've learned to help you take your business to the next level and attract investor interest. Every business is unique, but trust us: there are firm principles that position all new business ideas for success. Here's a hint: those who set out to create meaning are much more likely to succeed than those who set out to make money. As Apple's former chief evangelist, I know firsthand how building a company on strong meaning—democratizing personal computing—can lead to amazing success. If you have an idea for a business that you believe will make the world a better place, this class will help you organize your thoughts and make it happen. . . From the beginning. Through exclusive video lessons and tactical exercises, we will cover: Getting Started: How to position your company for success by giving meaning, asking questions, and developing a mantra. Launch: The importance of taking your product to market and telling your story. Early feedback from your customers is essential! Fundraising: What you need to know about the world of venture capital, how to clean up your act to be presentable as a company, and how to communicate what makes your company special. Pitching: How to present your business professionally by being prepared, keeping your audience engaged, and listening to feedback. Socializing. How to build a social platform for communication that your followers will appreciate. (Tip: Think like NPR!) At the end, you'll share your own 10-slide presentation package for your business and show us your "wow" factor.