From Idea to Success: How to Operationalize a Startup from Zero to Exit – Seth Spergel – BSW #346
Startup founders dream of success, but it's much harder than it looks. As a former founder, I know the challenges of cultivating an idea, establishing product market fit, growing revenue, and finding the right exit. Trust me, it doesn't always end well.
In this interview, we welcome Seth Spergel, Managing Partner at Merlin Ventures, to discuss how to accelerate that journey to lead to a successful outcome. Seth will share Merlin Venture's approach to helping startups tackle the largest markets in the world, including US enterprises and federal. He will also share what success looks like.
Segment Resources: https://merlin.vc/advice-for-young-startups-eyeing-federal-what-kind-of-tech-does-the-u-s-government-need/ https://merlin.vc/we-have-liftoff/ https://merlin.vc/portfolio/ https://merlin.vc/dig-security-talon-cyber-security-acquired-by-palo-alto-networks/ https://innovationisrael.org.il/en/digital-reports/
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Guest
Seth Spergel is a Managing Partner of Merlin Ventures, where he is responsible for identifying cutting-edge companies for Merlin to partner with and invest in. Seth has more than 20 years of experience building, selling, and investing in software and startups. Most recently, Seth was VP for Infrastructure Technologies at In-Q-Tel, a strategic investment firm that invests in startups that meet the mission needs of government customers. There, he led a team of technology experts to evaluate companies and identify novel uses of their technology within In-Q-Tel’s customer set.
Prior to In-Q-Tel, Seth was the VP of Engineering for ThinkGeek, an online seller and manufacturer of “geeky” toys and clothing. He also spent 12 years at IBM in roles ranging from software developer to sales manager.
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