Stuck? Time to Improv! The Startup Launchpad

C. J. Gilbert from Jungle Studios talks about website essentials for Startups

Startup Website Goals Discussion

Mary and CJ discussed the importance of setting clear goals for a startup's website, with sales being a common objective. CJ emphasized the need to consider what the website should achieve for both the business and its customers, highlighting the value of including educational resources, information, and forms. They also touched on the process of creating and sharing content across platforms like Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube.

Domain and Website Strategy Discussion

Mary and C discussed the importance of selecting a domain related to the company and creating an ideal customer profile to target effectively. They explored the technical aspects of building a website, such as determining the website's purpose, considering e-commerce capabilities, and deciding on additional features like membership programs or protected content areas.

Benefits of Hiring Professional Web Developers

https://jungle-studios.com/meet-cj

C advises that while building a website oneself is possible, hiring a professional is often beneficial, as a poorly designed website can negatively impact perceptions of a business's professionalism. They emphasize the importance of choosing a web developer with whom one can build a good relationship, ensuring they provide necessary training and access to backend systems. Mary and C agree that while tools like Canva and YouTube tutorials can be helpful, they are not substitutes for working with a skilled web developer who understands internet marketing.

Startups' Website Control Strategy

Mary discussed the importance of startups focusing on their own websites as the primary online asset they can fully control. She emphasized that while having a presence on other platforms is valuable for reaching potential customers, these platforms ultimately belong to someone else. Mary advised startups to use their websites as a hub to bring people back to their own network and email list for direct communication.

Website Best Practices for Startups

CJ Gilbert from Jungle Studios discussed the importance of regularly updating and backing up websites, emphasizing the need for fresh backups and security fixes. He highlighted that a common mistake startups make is focusing on aesthetics over clear messaging, and he noted that websites are dynamic, allowing businesses to adapt as they grow. CJ also advised startups to create a basic website with their picture, contact information, and answers to clients' main questions. Mary Scott from Business Riff encouraged startups to book a call for further support and concluded the segment.

- FREE GIFT - CJ's Video Course - Make Your Website Work For You! - https://www.mywebsitesafari.com/

CJ’s Resources for You & Your Network:

https://jungle-studios.com/meet-cj

https://earnd.co

Randy Lieberman from Earnd talks about R&D Tax credits for Startups

Startup Tax Credits for Innovation

Mary Scott from Business Riff welcomed Randy Lieberman from Earned to discuss research and development tax credits for startups. Randy explained that these tax credits are stimuli promoting innovation in the United States, covering work from ideation to testing done by employees or contractors. He clarified that the credits can be applied against taxes, including payroll taxes, to stimulate innovation and competitiveness.

Tax Credits for Pre-Revenue Companies

Randy explained that companies can carry over tax credits for 20 years and use them to offset payroll taxes, even for pre-revenue companies. He clarified that these credits apply to wages paid to developers, independent contractors, and cloud development efforts, particularly in AI and software development. Mary understood that these credits could be valuable for companies in their fifth year of operation when profits are likely to be high.

Research Credits Application Process

Randy explained the process for applying research credits, which involves meeting with companies to assess their qualified research projects in hard sciences like AI, computer science, engineering, physics, chemistry, and biology. They help companies calculate expenses, document efforts, and coordinate with CPAs for filings, with the added benefit that companies no longer need to capitalize expenses over five years due to recent legislative changes.

Startup Tax Credits and IP Protection

Mary and Randy discussed the importance of research and development tax credits for startups and emphasized the need for employment agreements with employees and independent contractors to protect intellectual property. Randy highlighted the significance of making structuring decisions early to ensure investments are well-placed and intellectual property rights are secured. Mary encouraged startups to book a call with her for further assistance and mentioned that they would provide information about Randy's company for interested parties.

What are R&D Tax Credits and How Do They Work.

https://www.earnd.co/what-are-rd-tax-credits-and-how-do-they-work/

This article is purposely presented in a Q&A format for easy navigation. I have also attached a sector-specific Insight focused on the Software and Technology sector as an example. We have Insights focused on other industry sectors available too, covering Aerospace & Defense, Agriculture, Consumer Packaged Goods, Energy, Manufacturing, Material Science, MedTech, and Transportation. In my Nolodex profile, I have a brochure detailing my company mission, value proposition, and several customer success stories.

https://blackdogventurepartners.com/

Scott Kelly from Blackdog Venture Partners talking about what investors want.

Mary Scott interviewed Scott Kelly from Black Dog Venture Partners to discuss investor pitch preparation. Scott emphasized the importance of matching the right investors to the startup's stage and having complete documentation ready. He outlined the different stages of investment, from pre-seed to growth capital, and explained the key components of a pitch deck, including the problem being solved, solution, pricing, team, exit strategy, and funding ask. Scott also mentioned that Black Dog Venture Partners focuses on technology, software, cybersecurity, and AI companies.

You can find our startup tools including Pitch deck template here: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1Xv9J6L78iIZQDpLGqwyLe4aSMuRDy9Wx?usp=drive_link

Websites https://vcfastpitch.com/ https://emergingmanagerspodcast.com/

Social Media https://www.linkedin.com/in/blackdogceo/ https://x.com/BlackDogCEO https://www.instagram.com/blackdogceo/

Cristina Imre from Quantum Wins talking about moving fast in today's AI market.

AI Strategy Integration Insights

Mary and Cristina discussed the importance of integrating AI strategically, emphasizing that many companies have rushed into AI without proper planning, leading to poor outcomes. Cristina highlighted that small players now have an opportunity to outperform larger companies if they adopt the right strategies, focusing on shipping signals rather than just features. She explained that signals come from user interactions and provide meaningful insights, which are crucial for success in the AI landscape. Mary agreed, stressing the need for careful consideration and verification of AI outputs.

AI Startups: Focus on Specifics

Mary and Cristina discussed the approach startups should take when developing AI solutions. Cristina emphasized the importance of focusing on a single specific pain point for a small, well-defined audience rather than creating complex AI platforms. She suggested starting with agile sprints and testing for traction before investing heavily in development. Mary agreed, adding that AI should be viewed as a tool designed for a specific purpose rather than a general solution, and highlighted the potential for startups to create niche, feature-specific applications that can complement existing platforms.

AI Strategy and Team Alignment

Cristina and Mary discussed the importance of using AI effectively in business, emphasizing the need for coordinated efforts and clear KPIs to avoid waste and ensure success. Cristina highlighted the significance of aligning teams, setting measurable goals, and understanding market needs, while Mary stressed the importance of strategic planning and avoiding premature launches. They agreed on the value of learning from problem-solving experiences to tackle new challenges, and Cristina offered to answer any further questions from the audience.

Connect with Cristina LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/cristinaimre/

YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@CristinaImreOfficial

Tech Leadership Lab: https://www.youtube.com/@TechLeadershipLab

Podcast host, Mary Scott, gives practical tips on how to pitch your idea/product/service in a clear & compelling way. Very short & sweet.

https://businessriff.com

https://madestl.com

Rachel King from MADE Makerspace will talk about maker spaces

Prototyping Services at Made STL

Mary and Rachel discussed the importance of prototypes for startups and the services offered at Made STL, a makerspace in St. Louis. Rachel explained that Made STL provides a variety of equipment and classes for members to create prototypes, including 3D printing, lasers, textiles, wood, and metal shops. They also offer community classes for non-members and host social events, such as Delish on Del Mar, every third Friday. Mary encouraged viewers to visit Made STL for their prototyping needs and mentioned that Startup Week would be a good time to stop by.

https://www.facebook.com/MADEStLouis

https://fearless-accounting.com

Hailey Phillips from Fearless Accounting talks about basic accounting for startups

Startup Accounting Best Practices

Mary and Hailey discussed essential accounting practices for startups. Hailey emphasized the importance of separating personal and business finances by opening a separate business bank account and using distinct bank cards. She also stressed the need for early cash flow tracking using tools like QuickBooks or Excel to project future success and monitor business goals. Mary added that investing money into the business should be categorized separately as a "loan from owner" to track returns on investment.

Tax Tips for Small Businesses

Hailey discussed common tax mistakes made by small business owners, emphasizing the importance of early tax planning and seeking professional help. She advised business owners to work with accountants familiar with their industry to maximize deductions and avoid penalties. Hailey also recommended regular financial check-ins, using automated tools like QuickBooks, and digitizing receipts to simplify bookkeeping. Mary agreed on the importance of having a marketing person, an accountant, and a lawyer on a startup's team.

Liz Johnson from Mountain View Marketing talks about basic branding for startups

Startup Branding Strategies and Costs

Mary Scott interviewed Liz Johnson from Mountain View Marketing to discuss branding for startups. Liz explained that a successful brand is engaging, effective, and consistent, with consistent branding across all platforms potentially increasing revenue by 23%. She outlined key components of branding, including value propositions, logo, tagline, and color palette, emphasizing the importance of scientific color selection and consistent brand personality. Liz also shared that a professional branding package can cost between $3,395 and $12,000, and offered advice on authenticity, transparency, emotional connection, and platform selection for branding efforts.

For 22 years Mountain View Marketing has helped our clients brand effectively and reach or exceed their business growth goals. Serving solopreneurs through companies with 200 employees in all verticals nationwide—we’re proud that 98% of our business comes from referrals. I’m a strong proponent of collaboration and would like to learn about your business. Let’s connect and schedule a 1-1. Liz Johnson, President & Principal Consultant, Mountain View Marketing, Helping You Reach New Heights, 540.675.1201, [email protected], https://www.linkedin.com/in/mvmarketingliz/, https://mountainviewmarketingllc.com/.

https://dongleasonconsulting.com/

Don Gleason from Don Gleason Consulting talks about Unreasonable Engagement: How Startups Can Win by Doing More Than Expected

Unreasonable Engagement in Consulting

Mary and Don discussed the concept of "unreasonable engagement" in consulting, inspired by Will Guidara's transformation of a struggling restaurant into the world's top one through "unreasonable hospitality." Don explained that this approach involves leading with curiosity rather than judgment, asking questions to understand clients' needs and challenges, and providing solutions tailored to their unique situations. He emphasized that this method, which he applies to consulting for startups, focuses on giving clients more than they expect and avoiding preconceived notions about their businesses.

Flooring Company's Language Label Success

Don shared a success story about a flooring company that improved its market position by implementing a unique labeling system in multiple languages, which helped reduce mistakes and increase margins from 4% to the desired 10-12%.

Market Research for Startup Success

Don and Mary discussed the importance of market research for startups, emphasizing the need to identify and address customer pain points. They highlighted the importance of understanding the market's needs and delivering results rather than focusing solely on the process or tool. Don shared his experience of creating a software tool for consultants, which was developed after extensive market research and feedback from potential clients. They concluded that startups should prioritize customer needs and be flexible in their execution strategies.

Teamwork and Course Correction in Entrepreneurship

Don Gleason shared his sailing analogy to emphasize the importance of course correction and teamwork in entrepreneurship, highlighting that successful navigation requires adjusting to changing conditions and involving the team for better outcomes. He also introduced a personal principle of waiting for the right moment to address important conversations, comparing it to navigating shallow waters. Mary Scott encouraged startups to engage with Don for further insights and invited listeners to join future sessions for more advice on success.

Consulting Software: https://www.kingdomgrowthengine.com blog: “Unreasonable Consulting” – The Remarkable Power of Giving People More Than They Expect https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/unreasonable-consulting-don-gleason-mba-72gte

https://blkunicrn.com

Joshua Blackwell from BLK UNICRN talks about immersive marketing experiences

Immersive Experiences for Sales Enablement

Mary Scott interviewed Josh Blackwell from BLK UNICRN about immersive experiences, which combine technology, storytelling, and interactivity to create engaging audience participation. Joshua explained that immersive experiences can take various forms, including virtual reality, augmented reality, and location-based activations, and provided examples such as sales enablement training and interactive slide decks for startups. He highlighted how these experiences can help sales teams understand customer pain points and create memorable investor presentations, emphasizing the importance of capturing attention within the first 13 seconds.

Next steps

• Startups to consider incorporating immersive experiences into their marketing toolkit.
• Startups to explore the possibility of creating immersive slide decks for investor pitches.
• Interested parties to contact Josh Blackwell from Black Unicorn for more information on immersive experiences.
• Startups interested in improving their chances of success to book a call with Mary Scott at https://businessriff.com