What is your favorite example of a successful start-up discussed in this book and why?

This is a discussion forum for the April 2024 Book of the Month, "Launchpad Republic: America's Entrepreneurial Edge and Why It Matters" by Howard Wolk and John Landry
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Olga Markova
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What is your favorite example of a successful start-up discussed in this book and why?

Post by Olga Markova »

I particularly liked the example of Uber as a start-up that disrupted incumbent taxi companies, because of its tremendous success, and especially because it did not give up when renewal of its licence was refused, and came back to the UK market after winning a dispute with Transport for London to operate as a ride-hailing company.
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Post by Sheen jenny »

Travis Kalanick and Andrew Carnegie are my favourite examples. They are entrepreneurs who didn't let obstacles stand in their way. In 2010, even though taxi drivers and regulations stood in Uber's way, Kalanick pushed ahead and built a great company. On the other hand, Carnegie grew up in poverty; he had a vision for the steel industry and made it happen. Both of these men showed that grit and determination can pay off.
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Post by Christine Catarino »

I was fascinated by how Landry and Wolk used Hamilton and Jefferson as examples of how long the U.S. has been paving the way for entrepreneurs. The way they showcased Hamilton's initial failures, yet he never gave up and eventually was successful.
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Jones Mwaniki
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Post by Jones Mwaniki »

Though it was brief, I liked when the authors mentioned Facebook to explain how a startup that becomes like an incumbent can maintain its power by taking control over other startups that threaten its consumer hold. It was a most recent example that was eye-opening.
Savina Visintin
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Post by Savina Visintin »

I have always been interested in Andrew Carnegie because, despite being born into a poor family, he became one of the richest men in the world; It is his story that particularly inspired me in this book.
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Post by Christian_ James »

Christine Catarino wrote: 09 Apr 2024, 13:57 I was fascinated by how Landry and Wolk used Hamilton and Jefferson as examples of how long the U.S. has been paving the way for entrepreneurs. The way they showcased Hamilton's initial failures, yet he never gave up and eventually was successful.
I agree. Landry and Wolk's use of Hamilton and Jefferson is a great illustration of the long-standing American spirit of entrepreneurship. Hamilton's perseverance through initial failures is a powerful message, which is the ability to bounce back is a key trait for any entrepreneur.
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Ray Thompson
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Post by Ray Thompson »

Olga Markova wrote: 01 Apr 2024, 14:15 I particularly liked the example of Uber as a start-up that disrupted incumbent taxi companies, because of its tremendous success, and especially because it did not give up when renewal of its licence was refused, and came back to the UK market after winning a dispute with Transport for London to operate as a ride-hailing company.
I also loved this example, but I loved it because this start-up was something very simple. It was not complex at all, and taught me a lot. This start-up actually opened my eyes and broadened my horizon.
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Post by Udeh N »

Of course! Airbnb, a standout example from "Launchpad Republic: America's Entrepreneurial Edge and Why It Matters" by Howard Wolk, is a captivating success story. Originating from humble beginnings of renting air mattresses in their apartment, Airbnb evolved into a global platform reshaping the travel industry. What sets it apart is the transformative power of its idea, turning ordinary spaces into sought-after accommodations. Airbnb's journey showcases the essence of entrepreneurship—creativity, adaptability, and relentless pursuit of innovation. It serves as an inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs, highlighting the potential to disrupt established industries through ingenuity and determination.
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Post by Onuoha Joy »

What sets it apart is the transformative power of its idea, turning ordinary spaces into sought-after accommodations.
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Emeka JohnObi
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Post by Emeka JohnObi »

The most fascinating one I can think of is the Facebook one. I say this because everybody uses Facebook. To see how it has grown over a couple years is wonderful.
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Post by Mary IJ »

Even though it was short, I appreciated when the authors brought up Facebook to show how a startup that becomes dominant can stay powerful by acquiring other startups that challenge its position with consumers. It was a recent example that really made me think
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Post by Neha Shakya »

My favorite example is from "Launchpad Republic: America's Entrepreneurial Edge and Why It Matters." is also Uber. Uber's success as a disruptive start-up compared to established cab businesses is astounding. Uber's fortitude, notably when it faced license renewal refusal and won a dispute with Transport for London, demonstrates its tenacity and strategic skill. This story demonstrates the value of perseverance, ingenuity, and the ability to manage regulatory hurdles in achieving entrepreneurial success.
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Nathaniel Bassey 1
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Post by Nathaniel Bassey 1 »

My favorite examples are Travis Kalanick and Andrew Carnegie. Kalanick overcame regulatory obstacles to build Uber, while Carnegie rose from poverty to revolutionize the steel industry. Both demonstrated that grit and determination lead to success.
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Nathaniel Bassey 1
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Post by Nathaniel Bassey 1 »

I love loads of other examples including how Landry and Wolk highlighted the long history of U.S.
Ada Obi 1
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Post by Ada Obi 1 »

Of all the examples that I can think of, the most fascinating one is Facebook. That is why it is commonly used by practically everyone. This has really grown over the past few years, which is quite amazing.
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