In a collaborative effort, 15 European tech leaders have pooled their expertise to outline key recommendations for startup founders in 2024

TOP THREE ADVICE – FROM FOUNDERS

1. Balancing growth and profitability

2. Cultivating revenue growth from existing customer base

3. Investing in product and continuous iteration for customer satisfaction

TOP THREE ADVICE – FROM INVESTORS

1. Balancing growth and profitability

2. (Re)structuring to prepare for emerging opportunities

3. Rigorous tracking of data and metrics

COMMON POINTS

BETWEEN FOUNDERS AND INVESTORS:

• Balancing growth and profitability

• Ensuring sufficient runway (18+ months)

• Adopting a “talent density” approach

• Prioritising efficiency

• Preparing for emerging opportunities through (re)structuring

WHAT INVESTORS ADVISE

BUT FOUNDERS DON’T MENTION:

• Integrating AI into product strategy

• Prioritizing fewer strategic objectives (Executing 2 to 5 max. objectives at once)

• Being diligent with data and metrics, incorporating highly data-driven mindset

• Engaging with ecosystem stakeholders

WHAT FOUNDERS ADVISE

BUT INVESTORS DON’T MENTION:

• Carving out niche markets and refining positioning for them

• Investing in product and continuous iteration

• Expanding through existing customer base

• Enhancing employer branding and talent acquisition

NEW OPPORTUNITIES FOR MONITORING THIS YEAR:

• Emerging technologies

• Consideration of competitor acquisition

• Exploration of evolving markets and niche segments for hidden opportunities