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SAFE for VCs, not so safe for startups

In recent years, “SAFE” notes have become one of the most common ways for early-stage startups to raise capital in the U.S. Still, most international founders have never heard of them. Lifelong entrepreneur and innovation consultant Michael Burtov explains the challenges these notes present to startups and angel investors.
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Using Middle-out innovation strategy, Steve Jobs and Jeff Bezos became tech moguls

Rather than trying to break into their target markets with limited resources, immigrant founders can “build bridges” — create platforms, communities, and shared tools. According to lifelong entrepreneur and mentor Michael Burtov, this “middle-out” approach empowers broader innovation. That’s what Steve Jobs and Jeff Bezos did, turning obstacles into opportunities.
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Failing is good: Why a high failure rate is a sign of a healthy startup ecosystem

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

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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Do investors steal the ideas you pitch them? Yes, all the time, and here’s why.

Tales about devious investors conniving to take advantage of aspiring entrepreneurs have been circulating in the tech community for a while. Most founders dismiss such stories as urban legends, but in fact, some VCs do steal ideas from early stage startups in order to boost their own struggling portfolio companies. Immigrant entrepreneurs, who have limited access to capital and are often overly eager to find an investor, should approach fundraising with caution, warns Michael Burtov, a star mentor and lifelong entrepreneur.
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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.
Pitching on Zoom

Pitching in the time of corona: How to succeed on Zoom

The COVID-19 pandemic has influenced the traditional ways in which businesses raise investment and acquire new clients. Although tech savvy founders are likely to have adjusted quickly, online communication isn’t always easy. How can you make the most of this time?