[author: Jared Brenner]
Some interesting links we found across the web this week:
Wristbands, velvet ropes, and more: 5 SXSW hacks for startups
Thousands of startups have descended on Austin for today’s opening of SXSW 2016. If you’re reading this post in between panels, demos and drinks, VentureBeat’s got a few networking tips for you. Bonus link: TechCrunch predicts the standout trend of this year’s conference: the on-demand economy.
Inside China’s Historic $338 Billion Tech Startup Experiment
The global startup economy can no longer ignore China, whose government more than tripled its venture funding in 2015, making it the world’s largest venture investor. Although the dramatic increase is intended to stem a recent slowdown of the Chinese economy by encouraging early-stage investment, analysts are skeptical and call for greater regulation to mitigate risk.
The Limits of the Lean Startup Method
The popular lean startup method emphasizes early customer feedback and repeated beta testing, but new research in the Harvard Business Review suggests it may not always work as advertised.
17% of startups are gunning for an IPO
2015 was a massive year for tech M&A, and relatively few companies plan for the public markets over a private exit. Take a look at the latest numbers from Silicon Valley Bank’s annual Startup Outlook Report when planning for the long haul.
Venture Capital’s Rosetta Stone
For those still learning the venture capital game, we love this breakdown from NVCA board member John Backus. The chart at the end alone is worth the click.
There’s more to early-stage funding than VC money
But don’t forget that VCs aren’t the only way to get your company off the ground. The wider ecosystem around you can be just as important, and TechCrunch breaks down these alternatives.
Foxes and Hedgehogs of the Startup World
Great thoughts on the psychology of founders from a scientist in residence at Lux Capital. Don’t miss the comment at the bottom on these ideas’ broader applicability, from Lux portfolio company Authorea.
