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Are startup accelerators a bad idea for immigrant tech entrepreneurs?

Accelerators assist founders with fundraising and help foster relationships with fellow entrepreneurs and mentors. But many also have toxic cultures, unrealistic expectations, relentless focus on fundraising, and simply waste your time with unproductive activities. This begs the question: Are accelerators bad for you? Mike Burtov, a star entrepreneur and founder, reflects on the dark side of the innovation ecosystem in the U.S.
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Revisit the Pivot: How international startups can “make lemonade” out of their failures in America

Many tech companies are moving to the U.S. after enjoying success in their local European, Asian, or LatAm markets. But the American reality turns out to be different than expected. Products, approaches, and sometimes business concepts that worked well at home often fail in the U.S. After pouring resources into the world’s most competitive market, many leave disappointed. But there’s a way for them to change this. Star entrepreneur Mike Burtov, who has helped multiple startups grow, recommends immigrant founders to “make lemonade out of lemons” and embrace the pivot.
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Ideas worth stealing: Advice for immigrant founders from lifelong entrepreneur Mike Burtov

The key to success in business often lies in the culture. Many immigrant entrepreneurs are struggling in the U.S. because they lack sufficient understanding of their customers’ hidden motives to drive sales and innovation. Michael Burtov, serial venture-backed founder and the author of Evergreen Startup, a book that helps entrepreneurs raise capital, recently discovered an unusual and innovative approach to consumer behavior in a cup of coffee. He shared his observations in this exclusive article for The Vertical.