Takeaways from my First Startup Weekend

First pitch for a busisness idea.

I had the opportunity to push myself 𝗼𝘂𝘁𝘀𝗶𝗱𝗲 𝗺𝘆 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗳𝗼𝗿𝘁 𝘇𝗼𝗻𝗲, participating in a 56-hour Techstars Startup Weekend with 𝟭𝟰𝟬+ 𝗯𝗿𝗶𝗹𝗹𝗶𝗮𝗻𝘁 𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗱𝘀 at the Platform Calgary. Here are my key takeaways.

Source: https://www.gen-i.co.uk/index.php/2018/09/26/simon-sinek-start-with-why/

Start with the Why

The foundation of solving any problem begins by asking “Why?”. Why does this issue exist, and why should anyone care? Don’t start with “I want to …” — instead start with “Why this problem exists and should be solved …” to empahize why it matters. Think about the consequences of leaving it unresolved and who will be most impacted. Simon Sinek’s principle rings true here: a strong “why” gives purpose to the problem-solving journey.

Source: https://www.evanderstrategy.com/resources/the-three-lenses-desirability-feasibility-viability

Validate Your Problem Statement Early

Validation is essential to ensure that you’re tackling a real, meaningful problem. Dive deep into research — whether through online resources, talking to potential customers, or running surveys — to fully understand the backstory and pain points. Find out how the problem is currently being solved, if at all. Early and fast validation helps avoid wasted time. Crucially, when talking to people, focus on their experiences and problems instead of pitching your solution.

Ross might be right! 😂

Be Ready to Pivot

Problem validation serves as a signal to either completely pivot your idea or move forward with necessary adjustments. Validation might tell you to pivot — completely or partially. This is normal and vital to avoid falling into the sunk cost fallacy. If your idea needs a shift, go back to defining the problem statement and validating again. **Ideas are cheap. Invest only in the best ones.**Don’t hesitate to pivot when needed — better late than never.

Credits: https://cwbsa.com/innovation-adoption-curve

Know Your Customer and Market

Understanding your target customer is key to any startup. Who are they, where can you find them, and how do they adopt new solutions? Only 2.5% of the market are innovators who embrace novelty quickly — most people will wait for others to prove your solution works. Ensure your offering aligns with their expectations. Assess your market’s growth, its current solutions, and whether it’s underserved. Align your product to the market and ensure your message resonates through A/B testing and feedback. Understand the product market fit and message market fit.