TechCrunch+ Roundup: Prompt engineering, web3 gaming survey, how to spend $10K on paid ads
In the world of venture capital, unit economics are a vital part of the evaluation process. VCs are typically not experts in machine learning or building deep learning frameworks, but they excel at understanding the financial aspects of a business. This is why they are particularly interested in the tech stack of generative AI.
Generative AI encompasses various aspects, including infrastructure, middleware, and applications. VCs are looking for founders who can build robust defenses and dominate their respective markets. With the increasing commoditization of AI models, the true value proposition of AI companies lies within the underlying datasets.
Leonard Wossnig, CTO of LabGenius, a biopharmaceutical startup, emphasizes the importance of data quality in AI companies. He provides questions that nontechnical VCs can ask to gauge a company’s data quality and assess potential risks associated with poor data.
At TechCrunch Disrupt 2023, investors and founders came together to discuss the latest trends and insights in the tech industry. It was a lively event, filled with informative discussions and valuable networking opportunities. The TechCrunch team is currently working on recaps of the event and will be sharing them soon.
One of the challenges that startups face is how to allocate their budget for paid marketing campaigns. In a recent TC+ column, growth marketer Jonathan Martinez explores the best ways to spend a hypothetical $10,000 marketing budget for a startup. He provides insights into choosing the right channels, creating an effective budget, and conducting meaningful tests to optimize results.
For startups in the era of generative AI, the question of whether to build or buy is a crucial one. Building a machine learning model from scratch can be expensive, and modifying an existing model can also require significant resources. However, prompt architecting offers an alternative approach. It involves leveraging existing models by using a series of prompts to deliver consistent outputs. This approach can save time and resources for startups.
In the “Ask Sophie” column, immigration attorney Sophie Alcorn addresses questions regarding the H-1B visa and EB-2 green card transfer process. She provides guidance for startups that are navigating the immigration system for the first time and explores the implications of recent changes in the “Visa Bulletin.”
Deep tech founders often face unique challenges in securing early-stage funding. The monetization of new technologies can take time, and there is a limited pool of VCs with the relevant expertise and interest. French photonics company Cailabs managed to secure seed funding during a downturn in the market. In a TC+ article, founder and CEO Jean-François Morizur shares the lessons learned from this experience and offers advice for other deep tech founders seeking funding in challenging times.
Web3 gaming, which incorporates NFTs and cryptocurrency, has gained attention from investors and developers. However, there are still significant hurdles to overcome before it reaches mainstream adoption. Jacquelyn Melinek explores these challenges and opportunities in a recent article.
Finally, in the world of pitch decks, founders are often tempted to use dynamic elements like animations to capture investors’ attention. However, Haje Jan Kamps advises against using these elements, as they rarely add value and can distract from the core message of the pitch.
Overall, the world of AI startups is evolving rapidly, and it’s essential for founders to understand the perspectives and expectations of VCs. By focusing on unit economics and building strong defenses, AI startups can position themselves for success in this competitive landscape.
