Kostas Zhukov

Our friends from BalticVC, a media about startup and venture investment in the Baltic region, want to know more about the typical technology entrepreneurs in Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania. 🚀 More specifically, education, experience of working in startups, etc. They would like to understand the startups' needs, willingness to raise venture investment, the sales territory, and the potential to expand into other regions. This data, presented in the form of a study not only in BalticVC, but also in one of the largest European startup media, will help attract the attention of major international investors to the Baltic region. 📊 The survey takes not more than five minutes. The survey data will be generalized and used anonymously. ⏳ The survey: https://lnkd.in/dPq5U47Y 📲

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Glad to see that u.ventures (a VC fund backed by Ukraine-Moldova American Enterprise Fund) was the most active VC investor in Ukraine in H1 2024 according to Forbes Ukraine data! u.ventures made 8 investments in Ukrainian startups in H1 2024 and also two investments in Moldovan startups during that period. Among the already disclosed Ukrainian investments of u.ventures over H1 2024 are Esper Bionics , Competera Pricing Platform, Dynamiq, and a follow-on investment in OneNotary during a round led by a US VC firm, Jackson Square Ventures. As always, we are actively looking for highly promising tech companies with strong connections to Ukraine or Moldova (e.g. companies with R&D in the region) for investments from Horizon Capital’s growth fund, as well as early-stage startups with similar ties for investments from u.ventures. Andrew Sorohan Vasile Tofan Andrii Brodetskyi Link to a Forbes article in Ukrainian: https://lnkd.in/dYCTCM9M

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Here are some interesting figures: ▪️Ukraine ranks second among CEE countries in the number of IT professionals, with 307,000 specialists. AI specialists make up less than 1% of all IT professionals, but there's significant potential for growth. We expect a 330% increase in the number of AI specialists in the coming years. ▪️Over the past 10 years, the number of AI/ML specialists has grown fivefold to 5,200, with nearly 36% of them being young talents aged 21-25. ▪️Compared to other European countries, Ukraine has a higher concentration of AI startups in marketing, gaming, and business software. ▪️Ukraine ranks first among CEE countries in the number of IT graduates, with 25% of them having studied in specialized AI/ML programs. ▪️Each year, 40-80% of Ukrainian startups that raise venture capital receive funding from foreign investors. Today, we at Roosh and AI HOUSE, with the support of the Ministry of Digital Transformation of Ukraine, presented the first large-scale research of the Ukrainian AI market, titled "AI Ecosystem of Ukraine: Talents, Companies, Education." The goal is to highlight key industry trends, identify the needs of specialists, and understand Ukraine's place on the global AI map. It also aims to provide a basis for strategic decision-making at the state level. More details are available on the AI HOUSE website: https://lnkd.in/d2NXvhMu

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Optimization is a Scam This year, I was fixated on optimizing things at Persikas. I analyzed our website, checkout process, and quiz conversion numbers. I wanted to optimize every detail to achieve the best conversion rates in Lithuania. We definitely improved our conversion rates, but in the end, it didn’t matter. Why do I say this? Because anyone can improve something—spend their time, resources, and team efforts to make something 5% better. However, 5% is a very small number compared to the countless hours required to achieve such optimizations. If your ads, landing page, and checkout process are already performing well, it’s better to focus on the bigger picture. For example, how can you bring more people to your website with less effort? What if you can’t generate more leads for your website? Maybe your market is too small, and you need to expand into another market to achieve 10x growth for your business. Small optimizations won’t make your business grow. Do you agree with me ? #marketing #cro #business #life #advice #usa #trump #america #market #customers #ltu #lt #lietuva #luck #unicorn #startup #leads #growth #checkout #landingpage #quiz #scam #optimization

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Do you want to find out how to transition from consulting to a Chief of Staff role at the fastest-growing bootstrapped startup in Poland? Join us at Young Operators Vol. 4 event! Date: May 7th Place: Imaguru Startup HUB Come and listen to a talk from our special guest - Tymoteusz Rommel, Chieff of Stuff at Surfer. He will cover topics such as: 1️⃣ How to start a career in consulting? 2️⃣ What skills are most useful for landing a job as Chief of Staff? 3️⃣ What does a typical day of CoS looks like? 4️⃣ A few pieces of advice for those looking to get into startup operations. After Tymoteusz's presentation, there will be time for networking, so don't worry :) Interested in attending? Fill out the sign-up form below 👇 https://lnkd.in/d2nf7hxk P.S. Limited seats available 🤗 CC: Ilya 🚀Kris

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Concept: A Centralized Platform for Synchronized Startup Funding and Dotations in Poland **Understanding the Need:** The Polish startup ecosystem is rapidly growing, but there is a need for a more centralized and efficient platform to connect startups with potential funders, including both domestic and international investors. Such a platform would streamline the funding process, increase transparency, and facilitate collaboration between startups and funders. **Platform Features:** 1. **Comprehensive Database of Startups:** * Detailed profiles of startups, including their business plans, team members, funding needs, and progress. * Categorization of startups based on industry, stage of development, and geographical location. 2. **Centralized Repository of Funding Opportunities:** * Listings of all available funding sources, including grants, loans, equity investments, and crowdfunding campaigns. * Information on eligibility criteria, application processes, and funding amounts. * Integration with EU funding programs to provide easy access to European grants and subsidies. 3. **Investor Profiles:** * Profiles of individual and institutional investors, including their investment criteria, areas of interest, and contact information. * Matching algorithm to connect startups with suitable investors based on their profiles and needs. 4. **Synchronization and Collaboration Tools:** * A secure messaging system for communication between startups and investors. * Tools for scheduling meetings and virtual events. * Document sharing and collaboration features. 5. **Due Diligence Support:** * Access to resources and tools for conducting due diligence on potential investments. * Expert advice on legal, financial, and technical aspects of startup funding. 6. **Performance Tracking:** * Tools to track the performance of funded startups and measure the effectiveness of investment strategies. **Benefits of the Platform:** * **Increased Efficiency:** Streamlining the funding process for both startups and investors. * **Improved Transparency:** Providing a centralized platform for information sharing. * **Enhanced Collaboration:** Facilitating connections between startups and investors. * **Access to International Funding:** Connecting Polish startups with global investors. * **Support for Regional Development:** Promoting economic growth and job creation in various regions of Poland.

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What makes 2020 and beyond so intriguing.... Is how the venture capital market has evolved since the Covid-19 pandemic. Valuations have been adjusted since 2021, and the rise of AI, particularly generative AI, has transformed the way companies operate. For more insights on why this period became the focus of the investment data platform, check Dodires' resources linked in the comments. #trends #investment #research #marketresearch #data

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It's time to sum up and update my profile: First and foremost, together with partners, we successfully closed the deal, selling 100% of YCLIENTS to VK Group. It was a highly successful exit for the founders and all investors, considering YCLIENTS has been operating exclusively in Russia since the beginning of 2022. Since mid-2022, YCLIENTS has been effectively led by Igor Bronin, who impressively shaped the business growth curve in 2023 while I was finalizing the deal and preparing the business for a seamless merge with VK. I confidently step back, knowing I've left the team and more than 45K paying clients in the hands of an exceptional leader. After the deal, I had planned to take some time off, but it didn't happen. Last September, an opportunity arose to acquire the Brazilian business of Altegio from one of the partners. I've been providing extensive consulting to the team, but the local market is incredibly challenging. In February this year, the business will be relaunched, presenting a formidable challenge with no time for relaxation. Altegio emerged in 2022 immediately after the start of the war in Ukraine. Many YCLIENTS franchisees and distributors worldwide couldn't continue their operations, being dependent on the Russian business. The only viable solution at that time was to transfer the product and intellectual property rights to each franchisee, resulting in several independent businesses under a new brand with offices in Armenia, Brazil, Ukraine, Cyprus, Hungary, Serbia, Dubai, and Kazakhstan. The next significant challenge is to consolidate Altegio into a unified holding with a single management center. I plan to invest my own funds and subsequently seek external funding. I strongly believe in this story - current Altegio partners not only maintained the business without external investments but also expanded their presence. Under the challenging environment, Altegio nearly doubled it’s revenue and surpassed 8,000 active businesses in 84 countries in 2023. In conclusion: I won't be able to assist you with any inquiries related to YCLIENTS anymore. Please refer all questions to the current management of YCLIENTS. I would be delighted to hear your partnership proposals with Altegio which is exclusively operate on global markets excluding Russia and Belarus. For quite some time now, I have been living in Brazil, and I would be happy to share my experience about the local market. Later this year, I plan to initiate the venture funding round for Altegio, targeting to raise $2 million. I will be leading the round and will contribute around half a million of my own funds, ensuring strong personal commitment to Altegio. If you would like to learn more about the opportunity, please let me know.

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Public-Private Partnership for European Integration and Ukraine's Recovery. Fully rebooting Ukraine's economy is unattainable through support aimed solely at macroeconomic stability. With the adoption of the €50 billion Ukraine Facility plan, there's finally a chance to also bolster businesses. The private sector, despite suffering catastrophic losses due to the war, remains a cornerstone of the economy. Approximately €7-8 billion might be allocated for business financing, of which no more than a third will go to private companies. Thus, there is hope. Hope for extensive support and incentives for reforms that should have been implemented over the years of independence. But what must Ukraine globally undertake to achieve the anticipated benefits? The answer is recognizing weaknesses and doing everything possible to rectify them. For instance, I have spoken with European analysts who have identified three major obstacles that could complicate Ukraine's path to EU membership: a low level of industrial development with a focus on raw materials industries, low labor productivity necessitating a reevaluation of educational approaches, R&D, innovations, resolve infrustructure issues, and crucially, institutional weaknesses. The supremacy of law, independence and transparency of all branches of government, and clear and fair laws and regulations that apply to all must be the starting point. The partnership between business and state is essential. The private sector possesses deep expertise, market knowledge, and discipline. We are team players committed to building a strong, competitive Ukraine. It is time to reassess the relationship between government and business to strengthen each other. This is crucial both for quality reconstruction of Ukraine and for shaping a robust stance for the state's future integration into the European community. Read more on this topic in my column in media New Voice (NV) - https://lnkd.in/dmHsecQk. Column in English - https://lnkd.in/dMiWVNEy

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🇺🇸🇺🇦 Ukraine at TechCrunch Disrupt 2024: applications for startups are now open! From October 28 to 30, up to 12 selected startups will have the opportunity to present their projects to the largest delegation of Ukrainian startups in San Francisco, which annually brings together about 10,000 participants from 125 countries. Participation is open to the following companies:  ✔️Seed, Series A, Series B ✔️with MVP and users ✔️prepared for investment, with previous investment rounds from notable angels and / or funds ✔️using technologies created in Ukraine and/or ongoing R&D activities in Ukraine Participants will receive a spot in the Expo zone, tickets to the event, and the opportunity to take part in conference activities. The organizers will cover the costs for one representative from each startup, including participation in the conference, flight, and accommodation. The deadline for submitting applications is 11:59 PM, August 28, 2024. 💚Details: https://lnkd.in/eUFMg2Kd Courtesy of Wtech US Chat.

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Last but not least, two more startups from my pipeline invited to the pitch session on April 17th in Riga. I'm sharing the details with fellow investors — DM me to get the deck or make an intro. 🇬🇧 BNDL AI  Your personal interior designer capable of matching furniture & decor from multiple stores. Raising €450k. #AI #SaaS #Marketplaces  https://lnkd.in/d7Gib4HK 🇵🇱 mowaAI  Data companion that provides actionable insights in seconds with a simple chat interface, backed by TechStars. Raising €1.5M. #AI #SaaS  https://lnkd.in/d7bCHMJN 

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My insights from the Startup Wise Guys Growth Ukraine program For four months, the PLATMA team was immersed in a supportive #network of mentors, industry leaders, and other Ukrainian scale-ups. We received tailored guidance to refine our scaling strategy and a future-proof #business plan ready to conquer new markets. Here's what truly blew me away: Discipline matters – Don’t underestimate hometasks paired with guidance to stay on track and make strategic decisions. Learning is endless – Working with dedicated coaches is invaluable, contributing to #growth Fundraising and sales strategies prepare for #market expansion. Networking with #investors is responsible for building connections for further #success Big thanks to Startup Wise Guys for the integral contribution to PLATMA development. It's not just about the practical skills or the connections we made – it's about the community that celebrates the unique spirit of Ukrainian entrepreneurship.

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Startup Funding Bootcamp for early stage founders - if you're fundraising or just looking forward to better understanding how it works - click the link below to apply. If you're thinking "no, too little unicorns" ... definitely checkout the video below! #startups #vc #investment #unicorns #gobigorgohome

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Poland Leads AI Funding in CEE for Jan–Aug 2024! But who is next in the top? Investment decisions can be tough without a clear view of the ecosystem. If you’re a data-driven investor or a key player in the tech space, the 2024 State of AI in CEE report is essential reading. After months of in-depth analysis, we’ve uncovered the key trends and insights to guide your next strategic move: 📍 What’s the real state of AI in the CEE region? 📍 How many M&As boosted the ecosystem? 📍 Which VCs managed to raise new funds? Get early access to these insights by signing up for the report, dropping October 29th 👉 https://hubs.la/Q02TFN-Q0 #Startups #AI #VC #AIReport #Investments

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According to the 2024 StartupBlink Global Startup Ecosystem Index, the USA, the UK, and Israel have maintained their positions as the top three startup hubs for five consecutive years. Poland ranks 34th globally, with Warsaw leading its startup ecosystem. Warsaw’s score is less than three times that of Krakow, which has overtaken Wroclaw to become the second-ranked city in the country. Meanwhile, Ukraine is ranked 46th, showing resilience despite the ongoing war, which caused its ranking to drop from 34th in 2021. Encouragingly, Ukraine’s position has improved by three points compared to last year. Kyiv remains the dominant startup hub, scoring 11 times higher than Lviv. Notably, Kyiv ranks first in the SaaS industry in Eastern Europe and third in Europe. Here is the link to download the report to find more details and insights: https://lnkd.in/dsEmQHTF

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Moving to a gym? Stuck in traffic? Let’s talk CEE Venture Capital! 🤖🎙️ In the latest episode of Venture brAIn, we break down the venture capital trends in Central and Eastern Europe (CEE) for Q2 2024 based on Vestbee latest post. Total funding reached an impressive €940 million, but there’s a twist: the number of funding rounds has actually declined. What does this mean for startups and investors in the region? Key insights from the episode: 💶 The rise of big investment rounds driving market activity 📊 Which countries and industries are leading the CEE scene 💡 Notable rounds from Creatio, Rohlik, ICEYE, and FintechOS 🎧 Tune in to explore how the investment landscape is evolving and what it means for the future of funding in the CEE region. Link in the comments 👇 #venturecapital #CEE #startups #funding #VenturebrAIn #investmenttrends #innovation 🤖🎙️ How It All Comes Together: My process is fully automated and AI-driven. I use Make.com to collect daily data from various sources, filter interesting topics based on specific criteria, and then generate prompts with ChatGPT. The podcast itself is created using NotebookML, while images are crafted with Leonardo.ai and Canva. All materials are brought together via Make.com workflows, ensuring a seamless production flow, including scheduling posts directly to LinkedIn. 🚀

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27% is the percentage of companies where at least one woman is a shareholder? Which deep tech startups have the most women? What shareholdings do women own? We invite you to read the free report DEEPTECH STARTUPS POLAND 2023 👉 https://lnkd.in/dHTADgiC [EN] 👉 https://lnkd.in/dadCp3nM [PL] prepared by Taylor Economics and the author's team: Michal Przybylowski, PhD, Piotr Tamowicz PhD, Michał Bańka Ph.D, @Darek Lubomski, Anna Zamojska PhD. The report’s partners were the Polska Agencja Rozwoju Przedsiębiorczości, Accelpoint, PKO Bank Polski and the Pomorski Park Naukowo-Technologiczny Gdynia / Pomeranian Science and Technology Park Gdynia #startup #hightech #venturecapital #poland #deeptech

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