Your essays suggest that startups should focus on becoming symbols for specific identity groups rather than trying to be universally superior. However, this approach seems to conflict with the traditional VC funding model, which often pushes for addressing large markets with 'universal' solutions. But in the real world, it seldom works that way.
How do you reconcile the need for identity-focused products with the pressure from VCs for broad market appeal? Have you faced this challenge in your own experiences, and if so, how did you navigate it?
Furthermore, for founders who don't belong to the identity group they're targeting, how can they navigate the inherent uncertainty in this approach? When relying on research and external insights to understand an identity group you're not part of, how can founders gain enough confidence in their product direction to commit to it, especially in the face of VC pressure for broader appeal? Are there strategies you've found effective for reducing this uncertainty and building products that authentically resonate with a specific identity group, even when you're not a member of it?
This tension between niche focus and broad appeal, coupled with the uncertainty of targeting unfamiliar identity groups, creates significant challenges for startup founders. How do you suggest entrepreneurs approach these issues?
Loving the root cause essays, Diego!
I have a couple of questions:
Your essays suggest that startups should focus on becoming symbols for specific identity groups rather than trying to be universally superior. However, this approach seems to conflict with the traditional VC funding model, which often pushes for addressing large markets with 'universal' solutions. But in the real world, it seldom works that way.
How do you reconcile the need for identity-focused products with the pressure from VCs for broad market appeal? Have you faced this challenge in your own experiences, and if so, how did you navigate it?
Furthermore, for founders who don't belong to the identity group they're targeting, how can they navigate the inherent uncertainty in this approach? When relying on research and external insights to understand an identity group you're not part of, how can founders gain enough confidence in their product direction to commit to it, especially in the face of VC pressure for broader appeal? Are there strategies you've found effective for reducing this uncertainty and building products that authentically resonate with a specific identity group, even when you're not a member of it?
This tension between niche focus and broad appeal, coupled with the uncertainty of targeting unfamiliar identity groups, creates significant challenges for startup founders. How do you suggest entrepreneurs approach these issues?