Why Idea to MVP Programs Are Critical? - Panel Discussion Recap

I was honored to be part of the panel discussion during?LEAPandInnovate?hosted by?Misk Entrepreneurship?labeled "Why Idea to MVP Programs Are Critical?". I was delighted to share my thoughts alongside dear friends;?Omar Al-Shabaan?and?Abdulaziz Alnowaisser, where we?discussed the importance of joining startup programs that leverage the real value and impact whilst supporting the long-term validation, growth, and acceleration journeys of startups. The grand takeaways and thoughts we shared are the following:

? Access to real supportive startup communities that have direct and indirect linkages to founders, VCs, ecosystem partners, public sector leaders, and private sector players is not available to everyone. These programs offer that sort of bridge if they are built by entrepreneurs and experts in the industry within a founder-to-founder model.?

? The valuable programs will give entrepreneurs two things in my opinion. Firstly, they will accelerate a sense of urgency which is very important for startups! Secondly, they circulate shortcuts within the ecosystem to validate customers and supporters at all levels.

? Being around entrepreneurs participating in these programs means you are building friendships on a life-long basis. Life-long relationships mean continuous access to knowledge, tools, techniques, leadership inspirations, industry insights, and most importantly ambassadors that form your own backbone as a founder and team.

? These programs give you as a founder the needed dose of a reality check. You will accept that the product you like might not be attractive to the target audience or even players in your industry. Deep diving into the fundamentals of pivoting and understanding behind flexibility is the takeaway here.?

? People work with their friends ONLY. And, these programs are the stop shop for such quality friends and healthy interactions (not only found there, of course).

? We as founders can not make it alone. We need a support system of people who understand where we are and what we feel, and at least share the same ambition and experience. It also is key to an infinite amount of A-level talents.

However, despite all advantages offered at the doorstep of such programs, I will forever be?in favor of the idea that entrepreneurship?as a notion is not meant for everyone and should never be for everyone. You are all great, impactful, and resourceful for what you do best regardless of the location, position, field, or place you are in or work for.?

All that matters, in the end, is for you to try and make the greatest value and genuinely support others to get to their best potential when surrounding you. You are already GREAT despite it all!?

PARACHUTE16 is an ecosystem enabler that builds high-quality acceleration programs and services for growth purposes. Reach out to schedule a meet-up over coffee and build impact together through our e-mail: [email protected]!