Sergey Kondratenko: innovative technologies in financing startups
New models of financial and investment support for startups have become a key stage in the global economy and business. According to fintech expert Sergey Kondratenko, the rapid development of technology and changes in investor preferences have led to the emergence of innovative approaches to attracting and distributing financial resources. It is important for investors and entrepreneurs to stay aware of these changes and adapt to new trends.
The specialist states that in the field of fintech 7.1% of all new startup projects. It is followed by projects from the healthcare sector - 6.8% of the market, and artificial intelligence - 5%. Gaming accounts for 4.7% of startups, AdTech (Advertising technologies) for 3.3%, and EdTech (Educational technologies) for 2.8%. The United States ranks first in terms of startup activity. There are the largest number of them here. India is in second place, followed by the UK.
Sergey Kondratenko emphasizes that modern companies are actively attracting digital technologies at all phases of their development. At the investment stage, new digital financial models are also being applied.
Sergey Kondratenko is a recognized specialist in a wide range of e-commerce services with experience for many years.
The evolution of startup financing: from crowdfunding to digital investments
Crowdfunding and crowdinvesting are key tools in the field of startup financing. They provide entrepreneurs with unique opportunities to raise funds through online platforms.
Thus, these financial instruments not only stimulate entrepreneurial development but also create an effective bridge between talented innovators and a diverse world of investors.
Angel investing is usually associated with individuals or groups who invest their own funds in promising companies in their early stages. Sergey Kondratenko clarifies that these investors not only provide financial support but also share valuable knowledge, experience, and business connections. They are willing to take increased risks in the hope of potentially high returns from the successful development of a startup.
Startup incubators are focused on providing support to companies at the initial stages of their development. Incubators often form partnerships with universities or government agencies and may specialize in specific industries or business types. For them, the main task is to help startups create a successful business model and prepare them for entering the market, explains Sergey Kondratenko.
Startup accelerators are focused on providing intensive but short-term support. They typically work with established startups that need additional support to effectively scale their business. Accelerators may offer services in exchange for an equity stake in the company.
Sergey Kondratenko: ICO & STO investments
In recent years, blockchain and cryptocurrencies have radically changed the model for investing in startups. As Sergey Kondratenko emphasizes, these technologies offer unique advantages that can revolutionize traditional approaches to investing and financing.
- Initial Coin Offerings (ICOs) have become a widespread method of raising funds for startups. Instead of conducting a sale of shares or shares in a company, startups prefer to issue their tokens or cryptocurrencies, available for purchase by investors. This innovative method allows you to quickly raise significant funds, bypassing traditional investment structures.
The idea is that a startup issues its own cryptocurrency and offers it for sale to investors. In exchange for investments, investors receive tokens. You can use them to purchase startups or exchange them on the stock exchange in future. Such opportunities make it an attractive option for financing new projects.
- Security Token Offerings (STO) represent a different approach to asset tokenization, notes Sergey Kondratenko. Unlike ICOs, STOs involve the issuance of digital tokens. These are real assets or shares in a company, which gives them greater legal force and protection.
Unlike ICO, STO strives to comply with laws and regulations. According to the rules of this technology, the sale of cryptocurrency is allowed only to those investors who meet certain requirements. These criteria may include having a sufficient level of investment, relevant experience and expertise in the field. This approach contributes to the establishment of a more transparent and regulated process for attracting investments. - Sergey Kondratenko shares his expert opinion.
The specialist states that any financial model has its pros and cons, and the choice depends on many factors. For example, an ICO may be the best option for innovative startups that face difficulties in obtaining investment in the traditional way. On the other hand, STO is closer to those who seek to comply with laws and regulations.
Sergey Kondratenko is convinced that regardless of the chosen model, one of the key criteria remains the overall stability, uniqueness, and prospects of the project. Reliability and transparency play a significant role in attracting investors. Ultimately, participation in startup financing becomes not only a matter of choosing a model but also trust in the project and its team.
The expert emphasizes that these innovations in the field of startup financing provide new opportunities for investors and entrepreneurs. They redefine standards and stimulate the development of new forms of business.