Andry Tanusdjaja
From Newcomer to Startup Advisor: Andry's Entrepreneurial Journey in Canada
The world of startups can be daunting, especially for newcomers to a country. Recently, Settlefast had the privilege of hosting an insightful interview with Andry, a serial entrepreneur and startup advisor, who shared his experiences navigating the Canadian entrepreneurial landscape. His journey is a testament to resilience, resourcefulness, and the power of leveraging one's unique background.
Meet Andre: From Corporate Accounting to Startup Visionary
Andre's story is far from conventional. With a commerce degree from UBC, he initially pursued a career in corporate accounting. However, the desire to make a more significant impact fueled his transition into the dynamic world of entrepreneurship. He's the co-founder of several ventures, including News Find and Ipex Capital, showcasing his ability to identify opportunities and build successful businesses.
Navigating the Startup Journey: Lessons Learned
Andre's entrepreneurial path hasn't been without its challenges. He candidly discusses the hurdles of fundraising and the sheer determination required to build a startup from the ground up. He emphasizes that resourcefulness and resilience are paramount for any aspiring founder.
One of the most valuable insights Andre shared was his perspective on fundraising. He views it as an art, not a science, stressing the importance of building genuine relationships with potential investors. He also highlights the need to tailor your approach to different investor types, recognizing that each may have unique priorities and expectations.
Advice for Newcomers: Leverage Your Unique Perspective
For newcomers looking to break into the Canadian startup scene, Andre offers invaluable advice. He encourages them to leverage their unique backgrounds and international connections, which can be significant assets. He also stresses the importance of understanding the Canadian business environment and asking the crucial question, "Why me?" before launching a venture.
The Importance of Mentorship and Support
Andre candidly addresses the challenges of mental health and the importance of social support for founders. He emphasizes the need to maintain balance and seek support from family, friends, and other entrepreneurs. He also highlights the abundance of resources available for finding mentors and connecting with like-minded individuals, including online events, communities, and incubator/accelerator programs.
Key Takeaways for Aspiring Founders
Andre's advice for aspiring founders is clear and concise:
- Ask "Why": Understand the problem you're solving and ensure there's a genuine need for your solution.
- Embrace the Long Haul: Building a successful startup is a marathon, not a sprint. Be prepared for a long-term commitment.
- Seek Knowledge: Andre recommends the book "Messy Middles" for navigating the inevitable challenges of the startup journey.
- Ipex Capital: Andre’s new company, Ipex Capital, helps companies and individuals unlock the value of their intangible assets.
Final Words of Wisdom
Andre's final piece of advice for newcomers is to pursue their passions consistently and consider starting a business as a side project while maintaining stability. His journey serves as a powerful reminder that with determination, resourcefulness, and a willingness to learn, anyone can achieve their entrepreneurial dreams.
Andre's story is an inspiration to anyone looking to make their mark in the world of startups, particularly newcomers to Canada. His insights offer valuable guidance and encouragement to those embarking on their own entrepreneurial adventures.