Chapter 1: The Essence of Entrepreneurship

Why do entrepreneurs embark on their journeys? Is it merely for fame, like gracing the cover of Forbes, or is there a deeper motivation? A recent conversation with ELIXR, a venture builder, sheds light on this intriguing question.

Friend: "I'm launching a Venture Builder."

Me: "You mean a VC?"

Friend: "No, a Venture Builder."

Me: "Ah, a startup studio. What's the appeal?"

Friend: "It's more complex than it seems; let’s keep that for another time, as this dialogue is all in your mind. You can explain it to your readers later."

Me: "Sounds good, let’s roll with that." (Cue the retro commercial vibe.)

Now, why would someone start a company? An honest response might be for the financial freedom to retire comfortably. But a more profound answer could be the desire to leave a lasting legacy and positively impact lives long after they’re gone.

Consider this: the average lifespan is around 70 years. Many leave behind a few possessions for their relatives, but only a handful are truly remembered. This notion—that one can live an entire lifetime and still be forgotten by most—is sobering.

Yet, there are exceptions. Think of Einstein—68 years after his passing, his influence still resonates with millions.

For those not on the path to formulating groundbreaking theories, the entrepreneurial journey often stems from a desire to make a meaningful change. It's not simply about chasing wealth (let’s not judge those aspiring entrepreneurs).

The likes of Elon Musk and Steve Jobs will be remembered for their innovative contributions to technology and society. Musk’s work with Tesla and SpaceX, and Jobs' legacy with Apple, serve as prime examples. Even Ray Kroc, the founder of McDonald's, has left a significant mark on the world, albeit with a dose of dark humor regarding health implications.

Many entrepreneurs I’ve encountered are driven by the ambition to create transformative products, not just to amass wealth. However, it’s essential to recognize that impactful change often stems from a collective of startups rather than a solitary endeavor.

To make a global impact, one must engage with multiple initiatives. Consider the varied goals of Elon Musk—from electric vehicles to interplanetary travel, and even innovations in communication.

During a recent discussion with Catalina Valentino, a young entrepreneur I previously featured, I learned that her team is working on a venture builder named Elixr, aiming to launch an impressive eight startups.

Chapter 2: The Entrepreneurial Challenge of Global Change

Let’s imagine a scenario: you’re entrusted with $2 trillion to save the planet. What’s your first move?

Chances are, you might be tempted to indulge in luxury dining. But here’s the catch: that money isn’t yours to squander.

Elon Musk would likely invest in space exploration, while Bill Gates might focus on healthcare innovations. Meanwhile, Warren Buffet could transform that $2 trillion into an even larger fortune—potentially at the expense of the planet.

Now, back to reality. Global warming is a pressing issue, but we have flying cars on the horizon!

In my conversation with Catalina, I was intrigued by Elixr's emphasis on "ESG" (Environmental, Social, and Governance) principles. One standout feature is their domain name, planet.earth—truly fitting for their mission.

We discussed their approach as a venture builder and their ambitious goal of launching eight startups. Their strategy includes:

• Planning technologies that enhance digital twinning and human interaction.
• Utilizing LiDar technology to gather data for decarbonizing existing assets.
• Developing a specialized voting and engagement system with triple verification.
• Creating a sustainable finance platform centered on ESG investments.
• Innovating a decarbonization initiative for social media.

This integration of technology with ESG principles is quite rare among venture builders. The real challenge lies in effective implementation.

You may wonder, "Eight startups? Shouldn’t they focus on just one?"

The more I observe successful figures like Musk and Zuckerberg managing multiple ventures, the more I believe that impactful entrepreneurs often stretch their limits. The potential to run several successful companies while making a global difference is indeed achievable.

I invite you to share your thoughts on this approach. Do you lean towards the idea of achieving success one project at a time, or have you experienced success through multitasking? Let’s engage in a discussion!

I'm AL, a business consultant based in Zurich, Switzerland. I’m passionate about delivering valuable insights to you, the reader. Connect with me on social media if you're interested in more of my content.

The first video features Kareem Elsirafy discussing the venture builder model, offering insights into how this innovative approach can transform entrepreneurship.

The second video features Chamath Palihapitiya, Founder and CEO of Social Capital, as he explores the concept of money as a tool for effecting change in society.