Mind The Chat podcast hosted Tzahi Weisfeld, VP and GM at Intel Ignite, to discuss the role of open innovation in business, and the accelerator’s innovative strategy to empower startups.
Intel Ignite connects startup founders with practitioners instead of consultants and introduces them to some of the best disruptors in the deep tech world, creating value without taking equity.
Intel Ignite provides intensive support over 12 weeks, through mentorship from Intel employees and industry experts, as well as private weekly sessions called Founder Circles, where founders come together to discuss common challenges.
Founders in the program are guided in identifying roles that maximize their strengths. “[Often] we’ve sat in front of a founder and CEO of a startup and said, hey, you’re great, but you don’t fit the CEO role. You love doing certain things in tech, or you love doing certain things in sales, etc. Let’s help you find a person that will join you and increase the value of your company, so you can focus on what you’re really good at.”
Corporate accelerator success depends not just on the right leadership, but also on strategic tools like venture funds, acquisitions, and partnerships. Tzahi pointed out that these investments, while significant, are essential for companies to remain competitive and survive.
For more insight into open innovation and the Intel Ignite program, hear Tzahi’s full interview on Mind The Chat.
