The Growth Pod #59: What it takes to build a successful startup – with Antler GP Jussi Kallasvuo
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Apr 3, 2025 Jussi Kallasvuo is a General Partner at Antler, an early-stage investor renowned for its focus on AI. He shares insights on what makes a startup thrive, emphasizing the importance of grit and problem-first thinking. The discussion dives into common pitfalls founders face and the nuanced dynamics of startup culture across Finland, Sweden, and Estonia. Jussi also highlights how AI is radically changing company formation, enabling innovations like single-person startups and elevating traditional business models.
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Problem-First Approach
- Validate a real, urgent problem before developing solutions.
- Deeply understand the problem and find rudimentary solutions with client feedback.
Product over Fundraising
- Focus on building a desirable product, not fundraising.
- Traction and product-market fit attract funding organically.
Founder Commitment
- Founders should commit to intense work, especially in the first year.
- Early-stage success relies on founder effort, not procrastination.