Entrepreneurs 2 | The Vertical

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Are startups overly dependent on Big Tech? A case for digital sovereignty.

- Entrepreneurs
- Ideas

Startups have always been entwined in a complex web of reliance on tech giants. But this dependence seems to be growing as the global tech industry matures, writes serial entrepreneur Michael Burtov. What risks might immigrant entrepreneurs expect to face in the U.S.?

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Underfunded, Underrepresented: Latinx founders forge paths in the U.S. venture ecosystem

- Entrepreneurs
- Funding

Latinx-owned businesses are the fastest-growing demographic among all U.S. entrepreneurs, according to reports. However, less than 1% of funds from the top 25 venture capital and private equity firms have invested in Latinx-led enterprises. Why does this lack of Latinx-led business funding persist?

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“We regret to inform you: You don’t fit into the box.” Which U.S. visa is best for immigrant techpreneurs?

- Entrepreneurs
- Immigration

For years, lawmakers have discussed the Startup Visa Act. Unfortunately, such a policy is still non-existent, leaving international tech founders without a clear immigration path to follow. Here’s how to fit into the right immigration box and improve the likelihood of an approved application, according to Michael Catalotti, an immigration lawyer.

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Why Uber is actually a law firm: How stealth business models shape the U.S. tech industry

In the highly saturated U.S. market, hidden narratives are shaping the competitive landscape. Many innovative tech companies are not what you think they are. Immigrant founders should learn to rewrite the rules of the game, recommends lifelong entrepreneur and startup consultant Michael Burtov.

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5 AI companies started by immigrant entrepreneurs

- Entrepreneurs
- Ideas

In “2019 AI 50”, the Forbes list of the most promising AI startups in the U.S., about 66% of the companies had at least one immigrant founder. How did these entrepreneurs make their way in the tech world and pioneer the future of AI?

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Failing is good: Why a high failure rate is a sign of a healthy startup ecosystem

- Entrepreneurs

In the U.S., about 90% of startups fail, and only 1.5% of tech companies have a successful exit. In a mature startup ecosystem, failure is the expected and necessary outcome. And yet, it’s benefits are seldom ever discussed. Lifelong entrepreneur and consultant Michael Burtov elaborates on the taboo topic of failure and lessons for immigrant founders.

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She who rules the data: 3 immigrant female entrepreneurs in Big Data

- Entrepreneurs
- Ideas

These immigrant women entrepreneurs are leaders in one of the world’s most significant, fastest-growing industries. The global big data market is projected to reach more than $473 billion by 2030.

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Innovation in disguise: How “off-label” thinking fuels success

- Entrepreneurs

Most people are familiar with "off-label" drug use. Applying the same concept, with its ingenuity and problem-solving capabilities, to innovation could help immigrant entrepreneurs to succeed. But this mindset has potential drawbacks, says serial entrepreneur Michael Burtov.

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The second mouse gets the cheese: The myth of “first-mover advantage.”

Startups from Asia and Eastern Europe have been borrowing and successfully localizing ideas from their U.S. counterparts for years. In fact, there are advantages to being a “second mover”, says serial entrepreneur Michael Burtov. This strategy can be especially beneficial for startups founded by immigrants.

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3 Tips to help founders build productive bonds with mentors

Great mentorship is often a game-changer for international founders launching a new business in unfamiliar terrain. Whether you are looking for an expert in your industry or someone who appreciates the nuances of your immigrant background, you need the right strategy. Katja Wald, an expert in coaching programs for entrepreneurs, shares three tips for building exceptional synergy with a mentor.