Attendees at Raleigh-Durham Startup Week (RDSW) enjoyed beautiful weather and networking opportunities on the second day of the event. The day was filled with activities as attendees moved between the American Underground and the American Tobacco Campus in Durham.
Lauren McCullough speaks about early adopters in the Startup 101 track Wednesday afternoon. (Photo by Jen McFarland)
Legal, Finance, & Startup Tips
The day started with open office hours where attorneys and accountants provided guidance on startup-related questions. The “Legal & Finance” track featured sessions on trademark, IP, and brand protection, as well as advice on navigating the legal aspects of co-founding a business.
The “Startup 101” track kicked off with a discussion on building a team, led by David Spratte and Kasper Kubica, co-founders of Carpe. Following that, growth expert Lauren McCullough, co-founder of Trommel and Auroraflow, shared insights on identifying and targeting early adopters for a business.
McCullough emphasized the importance of understanding the customer’s problems and how the early adopters, who have experienced those problems intensely, can be the key to the product’s success. These initial customers, she explained, are invested in the solution as the problem deeply affects them.
“They should have scar tissue,” said McCullough.
The Startup track concluded with a panel discussion on early investment funding and a conversation with Osahon Ojeaga, founder of Aja Labs.
Tech & Society Teaches Tactics
The Tech & Society track began with a discussion on biodiversity featuring Max Rünzel of HiveTrack, Greg Robinson of Aston Labs, and Brewer Logan of Verenovo Energy.
Perry White from the Center for Advanced Hindsight spoke about using Behavioral Science to predict and influence user experiences.
White advised founders to focus on designing for the customer’s experience and actions rather than just outcomes. Understanding the user’s intentions can help in providing the right support and insights at crucial moments.
Dr. Chris Monroe talks quantum computing with Krista Covey. (Photo by Jen McFarland)
Quantum Conversations
The Tech & Society track concluded with a Fireside Chat on Quantum Computing featuring Dr. Chris Monroe, a professor at Duke and the University of Maryland, and the Chief Scientist at IonQ. The discussion was moderated by Krista Covey of First Flight Venture Center.
Dr. Monroe provided an introduction to quantum computing, explaining the unique principles behind it. He highlighted how quantum computing allows for exponentially larger storage and computing capabilities by leveraging the concept of existing in multiple states simultaneously.
Lastly, the day ended with a preview of the upcoming events in Raleigh, including a Fireside chat with RDSW co-chair Chris Heivly discussing his new book, Build the Fort: The Startup Community Builder’s Field Guide.
