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Welcome to another episode of Category Visionaries — the show that explores GTM stories from tech’s most innovative B2B founders. In today’s episode, we’re speaking with Mike Long, CEO and Founder of Kosli, a DevOps tool that automates the collection of evidence for compliance and auditing, and has raised $3.5 million in funding.
Key topics discussed in this episode:
While companies in regulated sectors often believe they have unique compliance challenges, Mike found that the underlying problems were remarkably similar. By focusing on these common pain points, such as the need for process adherence and audit readiness, founders can develop solutions with broad applicability and appeal.
In industries dominated by conservative and traditional approaches, adopting a colorful, fun, and unconventional brand identity can help you stand out and attract attention. Don't be afraid to challenge the status quo and inject some personality into your marketing and design.
Mike identified a lack of dedicated communities and events for professionals working on compliance and security issues within DevOps. By taking the initiative to foster these communities, even in the absence of established conferences or forums, founders can position themselves as thought leaders and gather valuable insights and feedback.
While the pressure to secure funding can be intense, especially in a challenging economic climate, it's crucial to take the time to find investors who genuinely understand and support your vision. Rushing into a relationship with the wrong investors can lead to misaligned expectations and strategic missteps down the road.
Despite the hype around other emerging tech hubs, Silicon Valley remains unparalleled in terms of the concentration of experienced professionals, the ease of face-to-face networking, and the culture of paying it forward. Founders who can tap into this ecosystem, even if it means relocating, can benefit from accelerated learning, serendipitous connections, and access to a deep pool of talent and resources.
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