The Three Keys to Building a Unicorn: Access to Capital, Operational Expertise, and Networks

Gary A. Fowler
3 min readMar 22, 2024

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Introduction

Have you ever wondered what it takes to build a unicorn company? Those rare, mythical startups that are valued at over a billion dollars? Well, it’s not just about a groundbreaking idea or a charismatic founder. It’s about three critical elements: Access to Capital, Operational Expertise, and Networks. And let’s not forget the icing on the cake: a flexible and resilient team.

What’s a Unicorn and Why Aim for It?

What exactly is a unicorn in the business world? It’s a startup that defies the odds, growing to a valuation of over a billion dollars. But why chase this elusive goal? Because achieving unicorn status is not just about the money; it’s a testament to innovation, resilience, and strategic prowess.

Access to Capital: The Fuel for Growth

Just as a car needs fuel to move, startups need capital to grow. But it’s not just about getting funding; it’s about smart funding. We’ll delve into how securing the right investment can be a game-changer for your startup.

Operational Expertise: The Navigational Map

Imagine embarking on a journey without a map. Operational expertise is your map in the startup journey, guiding you through the complex terrain of business management. We’ll explore why this expertise is crucial for scaling your startup.

Networks and Contacts: The Secret Sauce

Ever heard the saying, “It’s not what you know, but who you know”? In the startup world, this rings especially true. Networks and contacts can open doors that would otherwise remain closed. Let’s find out how.

The Role of a Flexible and Resilient Team

A ship is only as good as its crew. A flexible and resilient team can weather the storms of the startup world and steer the ship to success. We’ll look at why your team’s adaptability and resilience are key to building a unicorn.

The Journey from Startup to Unicorn

It’s a path filled with ups and downs, but what does the journey from a humble startup to a unicorn actually look like? We’ll take you through this thrilling ride.

Case Studies: Unicorn Success Stories

Learning from those who’ve done it is always inspiring. We’ll dive into some unicorn success stories, dissecting what made them successful.

The Challenges on the Road to a Billion

The road to becoming a unicorn is not without its hurdles. From funding challenges to market uncertainties, we’ll discuss what obstacles you might face and how to overcome them.

The Future of Unicorn Startups

What does the future hold for unicorn startups? Are we going to see more of them, or is the landscape changing? Let’s speculate on the future of these billion-dollar companies.

Conclusion: Your Path to Unicorn Status

So, are you ready to embark on your journey to building a unicorn startup? Remember, it’s about a lot more than just a great idea. It’s about capital, expertise, networks, and a stellar team.

FAQs

  • What defines a unicorn startup?
    A unicorn startup is a private company with a valuation of over a billion dollars. This status is rare and signifies a high level of success and innovation.
  • How important is access to capital in building a unicorn?
    Access to capital is crucial. It’s the fuel that powers growth, expansion, and the scaling of operations. However, smart capital management is just as important as obtaining funding.
  • Can a startup become a unicorn without strong networks and contacts?While it’s theoretically possible, networks and contacts significantly increase the chances of success. They provide opportunities, advice, and valuable partnerships

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Gary A. Fowler
Gary A. Fowler

Written by Gary A. Fowler

Founder & CEO of GSDVS, Generative AI Guy, Speaker, Author, Investor and Venture Scaler

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