In this hyperconnected world we live in, it’s easier than ever to send feedback to the companies we patronize. But just because businesses offer more ways to get in touch doesn’t mean they’re poring over every comment. According to a 2020 survey from Productboard, 90% of companies fail to successfully capture feedback from all channels. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

A new company is emerging from stealth today with backing from Google’s AI-focused venture fund to help businesses compile their open-source AI infrastructure and reduce their engineering overheads. Cake integrates and secures more than 100 components for enterprises. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Yurts has secured an impressive $40 million in funding to develop AI solutions for the Department of Defense. The discussion includes the inspiring journey of a military veteran who launched an AI integration platform tailored for high-security clients. Listeners will gain insight into the complexities of securing funding and navigating the competitive enterprise AI landscape. The ambitions surrounding artificial intelligence in military applications are explored, highlighting how innovation meets national security needs.

The podcast dives into the alarming rise of cancer among younger adults and the staggering failure rates of new drug compounds in clinical trials. Fanny Jaulin discusses the need for innovative trial designs to improve outcomes. It highlights how a startup is leveraging AI to revolutionize drug discovery by tailoring treatments to individual patient profiles, particularly for colorectal and pancreatic cancers. Their recent funding successes signal a promising advance in the realm of precision medicine.

Jonathan Cohen, Co-founder and CEO of Joco, shares harrowing tales of their near-failure and dramatic rebirth as an e-bike startup focused on delivery workers. He discusses the innovative facilities built for gig workers and their successful shift from consumer bike-sharing to catering specifically to NYC delivery riders. Cohen also unveils the strategic partnerships that propelled Joco into profitability and hints at ambitious plans for future expansion, all while navigating the fast-paced world of urban logistics.

Sir Chris Hoy, a six-time Olympic gold medalist track cyclist and investor in Skarper, discusses the exciting potential of transforming traditional bikes into e-bikes. He challenges the stigma around e-bikes not being 'real bikes' and shares insights into Skarper's innovative conversion system. Hoy elaborates on the benefits and challenges of e-bike adoption, emphasizing how this technology could revolutionize cycling for everyday riders. His passion for cycling and groundbreaking ideas make this conversation both inspiring and enlightening.

India is emerging as a bright spot in the global IPO landscape, defying trends that challenge other markets. The podcast delves into the flourishing tech sector, with a notable focus on upcoming public offerings like Swiggy. A significant wave of IPOs is anticipated in 2025, showcasing India's resilience and potential. This rapid growth positions the nation as a key player in the startup world, ready to capitalize on shifting economic tides.

Manuel Rios, Co-founder of Deep Blue Biotech and former VP of sustainable design at Unilever, dives into the future of eco-friendly skincare. He reveals how his startup harnesses genetically engineered cyanobacteria to revolutionize chemical production. The discussion highlights the environmental benefits of sustainable biomanufacturing, particularly in creating hyaluronic acid for beauty products. Rios also shares insights on their innovative strategies, including modular photobioreactors, and the significant commercial potential for these green alternatives.

A startup named Volta is revolutionizing B2B sales with a new platform similar to Shopify, focusing on European markets. Recently securing a €6 million pre-seed round, the team is eager to innovate catalog management and streamline transactions. The conversation highlights the founders' motivations and the significance of their ambitious funding. Listeners will be intrigued by the potential impact of Volta on the B2B landscape!

The European Union is on a mission to help startups thrive. Ursula von der Leyen emphasizes the need to scale these businesses effectively. She discusses plans to reduce regulatory challenges and boost private investment. The goal is to close the innovation gap within Europe and support a vibrant startup ecosystem. This strategic focus aims to empower entrepreneurs and drive economic growth across the continent.