The hottest Entrepreneurship Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top Business Topics

Is Y Combinator worth the money (equity)? Brutally honest review of W22 batch experience

Oleksii Sidorov • 815 HN points • 29 Mar 23
💼 Business Entrepreneurship
  1. The Y Combinator program tends to treat all companies similarly, despite differences in stage and industry.
  2. The networking opportunities within the program may be limited due to the large number of companies and lack of common ground.
  3. The main value of participating in Y Combinator often revolves around fundraising, but the benefits may vary depending on the specific situation of the company.
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The New Gold Rush: Asteroid Mining

Space Ambition • 279 implied HN points • 16 Dec 22
🕹 Technology Entrepreneurship
  1. Asteroid mining could help solve the problem of limited Earth resources. Some asteroids are worth tons of money and could provide materials crucial for technology.
  2. Mining in space isn't just about precious metals; water is a key resource that astronauts can use for drinking and rocket fuel. It also opens up possibilities for farming in space.
  3. There are many challenges to asteroid mining, like developing the right tools and overcoming technical issues. But with innovation, it could become a reality, and the first trillionaire might be a space miner.

Focus

Mountain Labs Newsletter • 39 implied HN points • 21 Mar 24
💼 Business Entrepreneurship
  1. The new product, ODAK, is a CO2 detector that helps keep track of air quality and cognitive performance during work sessions. It also features a built-in time-boxing tool and LED notifications.
  2. Building hardware products offers unique challenges and benefits compared to software. Physical products can create a stronger connection with users because they can be seen and used without relying on ads.
  3. Having a clear strategy is crucial for product development. It's important to learn from past experiences and focus on a vision that aligns personal values with business goals.

New applied metascience lab - Future House announced + some thoughts on UK applied metascience

James W. Phillips' Newsletter • 98 implied HN points • 01 Nov 23
🕹 Technology Entrepreneurship
  1. A new applied metascience lab called Future House has been announced, with a focus on using AI to accelerate scientific research.
  2. Future House aims to create an 'AI scientist' that can independently develop hypotheses by analyzing scientific papers.
  3. The UK needs to prioritize initiatives like Future House to orient to new opportunities and empower quality talent in research.

You don’t have to be an engineer to become a founder of a space tech start-up

Space Ambition • 239 implied HN points • 20 Jan 23
🕹 Technology Entrepreneurship
  1. You don't need to be an engineer to start a space tech company. Many successful founders come from different backgrounds and experiences.
  2. The space tech industry includes a diverse range of founders, such as experts with technical knowledge, entrepreneurs who were successful in other fields, and dreamers who are passionate about space.
  3. Many successful space tech founders show that with passion, determination, and the right team, anyone can make their space exploration dreams a reality.

Narratives of business models

Product Identity • 59 implied HN points • 14 Feb 24
💼 Business Entrepreneurship
  1. Business models are crucial for companies and can greatly affect their success. There are many debates about which model is the best, like subscription versus ads.
  2. Telegram's business model is unique because it relies on user subscriptions rather than ads. This approach has helped them gain a large number of paying customers and a positive image.
  3. Different business models create different emotional connections with customers. The way a company charges can reflect its values and how much it cares about its users.

Øyster Hunting, Elon book, Agency Math, Ditching ClickUp

Play Permissionless • 99 implied HN points • 26 Oct 23
💼 Business Entrepreneurship
  1. Ditching ClickUp for Airtable improved task management by consolidating data and tasks in one place, leading to a more efficient workflow.
  2. The Elon Musk biography by Walter Isaacson was found to be a bit boring with more focus on celebrity gossip than insights into how Elon Musk operates.
  3. Understanding the mathematical reasons behind agencies getting stuck at $50k MRR can help in strategizing ways to break through the revenue plateau.

OnlyFans Sticky Business Model

SatPost by Trung Phan • 127 implied HN points • 14 Feb 25
💼 Business Entrepreneurship
  1. OnlyFans has grown rapidly, with many creators and subscribers, making billions in revenue. The platform allows creators to earn money through subscriptions and direct messaging.
  2. The business model of OnlyFans is unique. Creators can earn more by keeping subscription prices low and upselling personalized content through DMs, rather than relying mainly on subscription fees.
  3. The success of OnlyFans raises questions about the nature of online connections. While it provides income for many, it sometimes sacrifices genuine connection and quality of interaction.

How to find industry problem as young founder

Recontact • 39 implied HN points • 15 Mar 24
💼 Business Entrepreneurship
  1. Start by finding a common interest field, building hypotheses around it, and validating them. It helps provide direction in problem-solving.
  2. When searching for industry problems, focus on non-core issues that companies face. This approach can lead to valuable insights and potential solutions.
  3. Conduct interviews with a variety of people in the industry, from executives to lower-level employees, to gather a diverse set of perspectives and understand the depth of the problem. It can help in identifying the right problem to tackle.

the power of nested focus

Tiny Empires • 183 implied HN points • 06 Nov 24
💼 Business Entrepreneurship
  1. Focus on one business at a time to give it the attention it needs. Trying to juggle multiple businesses can lead to poor performance and burnout.
  2. Limit yourself to two revenue streams within your business. This way, you can dedicate your efforts to making them successful, instead of spreading yourself too thin with too many options.
  3. Rely on just two marketing channels to reach your audience. Mastering a couple of channels is more effective than attempting to be everywhere without clear engagement.

The VC Corner 📰 #2

The VC Corner • 79 implied HN points • 01 Dec 23
💼 Business Entrepreneurship
  1. The VC Corner is a newsletter that shares news and resources for people involved in startups and venture capital. It's helpful for both new and experienced investors.
  2. The newsletter is written by Ruben Dominguez Ibar, who also works on an investment team at Mundi Ventures. He aims to provide valuable insights through his writing.
  3. Readers can sign up for a free trial to access more content and get a deeper understanding of venture capital topics.

The Key Traits of High-Performing (Conscious) Entrepreneurs

The Leadership Lab • 78 implied HN points • 03 Dec 23
💼 Business Entrepreneurship
  1. High-performing entrepreneurs have a patient, long-term view alongside short-term impatience, balancing dedication over years with quick action now.
  2. Successful entrepreneurs are relentless learners, using every moment to gather information and grow, focusing on intentional learning to serve their broader purpose.
  3. Top entrepreneurs take 100% responsibility, avoiding blame and focusing on self-improvement by continuously coming back to the mindset of a creator.

So, you found a co-founder. Now what?

The Founder Memo • 19 implied HN points • 12 Jun 24
💼 Business Entrepreneurship
  1. It's really important to discuss how you'll split equity with your co-founder before diving into your startup. This helps avoid confusion and potential disputes later on.
  2. You should clarify each person's roles and responsibilities right from the start. Knowing who does what can prevent misunderstandings as you work together.
  3. Taking the time to talk about your motivations for starting the business will keep you aligned on goals. It's vital to be on the same page about why you're building this company together.

Five steps to get and evaluate startup ideas

A Bit Gamey • 13 implied HN points • 30 Nov 25
💼 Business Entrepreneurship
  1. Start with a problem instead of an idea. This helps you understand what people really need and keeps you motivated.
  2. Find people to discuss problems with. Collaborating with others can sharpen your ideas and potentially lead to great partnerships.
  3. Create a simple version of your product first. This way, you can learn quickly from real users and improve it based on their feedback.

Mr. Haltiwanger and the Austrians

Bet On It • 140 implied HN points • 09 Jan 25
💼 Business Entrepreneurship
  1. Austrian economists should pay more attention to John Haltiwanger’s research on creative destruction. His work shows how important entrepreneurial growth is to the economy.
  2. Entrepreneurs help move resources to better uses by discovering opportunities and improving efficiency. This competition helps the economy grow and evolve.
  3. Measuring how resources are reallocated can show if markets are really working well. If more productive firms gain market share, it indicates a healthy, dynamic economy.

Learning From the French Revolution In Startups

Japan Economy Watch • 179 implied HN points • 02 Feb 23
💼 Business Entrepreneurship
  1. Using tax incentives to direct investments towards startup companies can have positive effects on entrepreneurship drive.
  2. Professional management of angel funds can help reduce risks for retail investors interested in startups.
  3. Models like France's tax incentive plan have successfully supported the growth of startups and innovation in a country.

Links to Consider

In My Tribe • 394 implied HN points • 22 Jan 24
💼 Business Entrepreneurship
  1. American colleges and universities have traditionally been prestigious, but recent actions have diminished their value, creating opportunities for disruption.
  2. The surge in new business formation in the US, following the pandemic, showcases the adaptability and innovation of American capitalism.
  3. Complex social problems require precise knowledge for effective solutions, and both government interventions and social activism may fall short in addressing them.

10 Years of Solo Consulting

burkhardstubert • 159 implied HN points • 01 Jun 23
💼 Business Entrepreneurship
  1. Going solo as a consultant can be a great decision, leading to better income, work-life balance, and personal fulfillment. It allows for more freedom and opportunities to enjoy life outside of work.
  2. Positioning your services based on expertise rather than price is essential. It helps attract the right clients and reduces competition by showcasing what makes you unique.
  3. Listening to client needs is crucial for success. Asking open-ended questions about their future goals helps identify how you can provide the most value.

Is it SAFE?

The Founder Memo • 39 implied HN points • 29 Mar 24
💼 Business Entrepreneurship
  1. Using Safes for fundraising can lead to founders selling too much of their company without realizing it. This often happens when multiple Safes stack up over time, causing unexpected dilution.
  2. Legal issues can pile up with Safes because many founders don't do thorough due diligence early on. When they finally need legal help for a priced round, hidden problems can cost them more to fix.
  3. It may be better for founders to consider priced rounds instead of Safes, especially for larger raises. This can help maintain ownership and reduce complexity in legal documents.

Permission to be Not Good Yet | #30

The Pole • 99 implied HN points • 02 Sep 23
💼 Business Entrepreneurship
  1. Giving yourself permission to not be good yet is essential for growth and learning.
  2. It's okay to have moments of being rambly or imperfect in your work, as long as you keep showing up.
  3. Developing skills takes time and iteration, so allowing yourself to suck at first is part of the process.

3 hard truths from Nigeria's top VCs

Afridigest • 43 implied HN points • 03 Aug 25
💼 Business Entrepreneurship
  1. Understanding local markets is key for startup success in Africa. Knowing what customers want can make or break a business.
  2. Access to funding is often a challenge for startups. Many businesses struggle to find investors willing to take risks.
  3. Building a strong team is essential. A good team can adapt to challenges and drive the company forward.

10 Years of Solo Consulting (Part 3)

burkhardstubert • 119 implied HN points • 07 Aug 23
💼 Business Entrepreneurship
  1. Working solo allows you to empower clients and make them self-sufficient, rather than keeping them dependent on your services. This helps clients gain control and improves their development processes.
  2. Choosing the right business structure, like staying freelance or incorporating a company, can greatly affect your taxes and financial management. It's important to understand these options early and adapt as needed.
  3. Maintaining a healthy work-life balance is crucial for avoiding burnout. Engaging in activities like hiking helps relieve stress and provides a mental break from work.

Unscalable *and* effective ⛰

The SaaS Baton • 98 implied HN points • 12 Apr 23
💼 Business Entrepreneurship
  1. Not everything needs to be scalable, doing unscalable things can still be effective in startups
  2. Hiring a finance executive early on can bring valuable insights and help with key financial tasks
  3. Monetizing an open-source product through SaaS can present challenges but also lead to product maturity for different use cases

You don't have to go it alone

Aurora's Almanac • 98 implied HN points • 11 Jun 23
💼 Business Entrepreneurship
  1. Mentorship provides benefits to both mentors and mentees, fostering growth and learning.
  2. The Fast Track program emphasizes the importance of Clarity, Confidence, Critique, Community, and Continuous Learning for mentors.
  3. Mentorship programs like Fast Track offer structured support, resources, and networking opportunities for personal and professional development.