Whether you’re a founder, investor, or ecosystem builder working in tech, you’ve likely heard of, and been influenced by Brad Feld’s thinking. Co-founder of two venture capital firms, Foundry Group and Mobius Venture Capital, and multiple companies, including Techstars, Brad is a prolific writer, thinker, and instigator — in the very best way.
We had the pleasure of hosting Brad at the High Alpha office to discuss his newest book, Give First: The Power of Mentorship. Here are a handful of takeaways from the fireside chat with High Alpha Co-Founder and Managing Partner Scott Dorsey and the legendary Brad Feld.
The Philosophy of Give First
At its core, “Give First” challenges us to approach relationships and ecosystems with a mindset of contribution. This involves putting energy into a system without knowing exactly how or when you’ll receive something in return. Unlike “pay it forward,” which can feel hierarchical or obligatory, “Give First” emphasizes mutual value, non-transactional relationships, and a deep commitment to community building.
The philosophy isn’t just about altruism. It’s about creating a flywheel of energy and opportunity. As Brad shared, “If enough people in a startup community adopt this mindset, magic starts to happen. A flywheel forms, and the community becomes self-sustaining.” This is not to be understated. Whether it’s simply being accessible, actively listening, or helping others succeed, the give first philosophy invites each of us to contribute in ways that resonate with our own strengths and passions.
Startup Communities: Leadership, Evolution, and Impact
Brad’s work in building startup communities has shaped how we think about entrepreneurial ecosystems today. During the conversation, he revisited the core principles of his Startup Communities framework, which continues to guide cities and regions around the world.
1. Leadership by Founders and Instigators
Startup communities thrive when led by individuals, including current or former founders and instigators who actively engage others. While organizations like universities, corporations, and governments play critical roles, they cannot lead — hard stop. Leadership must come from individuals who are directly connected to the entrepreneurial journey.
2. Long-Term Vision
Building a startup community takes time. To put an actual number to it, 20 years or more. Brad encourages leaders to always look 20 years into the future, focusing on sustained growth and renewal rather than short-term wins.
3. Inclusivity
Startup communities must welcome anyone who wants to engage, regardless of background, experience, or identity. Inclusive communities foster diversity, collaboration, and innovation.
4. Continuous Engagement
A vibrant community is marked by continuous activities and events that connect people. Success happens when there’s so much happening that no one can attend everything. This is a sign of critical mass.
Startup Communities ≠ Entrepreneurial Ecosystems
After a few questions about roles organizations and individuals can play in the startup community, Brad reiterated that there’s a clear distinction between startup communities and entrepreneurial ecosystems. While the startup community’s sole purpose is to help founders succeed, the entrepreneurial ecosystem encompasses a broader range of institutions with multiple goals. For example, a university can play a part in the entrepreneurial ecosystem, but because the main goal is not helping founders (and rather, educating), it sits outside of the startup community. The two must work in harmony, but the startup community should always remain founder-led and tightly focused.
The Role of Place in Innovation
A recurring theme in Brad’s work is the importance of “topophilia,” or love of place. Every city has its own identity and potential for innovation, and startup communities play a vital role in ensuring long-term economic health and vibrancy.
While COVID-19 and the rise of remote work have shifted how we think about geography, Brad emphasized that place still matters. Whether it’s revitalizing downtowns, fostering connections in physical spaces, or creating virtual hubs of energy, startup communities must adapt while maintaining their connection to place. Innovation and renewal are essential to keeping cities dynamic and thriving.
Embracing AI and the Future of Work
When asked whether AI will displace workers, Brad offered a pragmatic perspective: AI is simply the next phase of software evolution. Rather than succumbing to the hype (or the fear), Brad’s advice is to instead focus on how these tools change workflows. While AI is undoubtedly reshaping the nature of work, it’s not about wholesale job replacement. Rather, it’s about adapting to new roles and responsibilities.
Today, it’s critical to evaluate how AI tools impact your daily work. Are they genuinely improving productivity, or are they simply adding noise? By thoughtfully integrating technology, we can harness its potential while staying grounded in human creativity and connection.
Words of Wisdom: Life, Leadership, and Giving First
Brad closed the evening with reflections on life’s finite nature and the importance of living with intention. “This is the moment,” he shared. “Life is full of challenges, heartbreak, and failure, but it’s also filled with opportunity. Focus on what matters to you. Define your own meaning. And don’t miss the chance to contribute to something greater.”
It was a heartfelt moment in a room absolutely packed with founders, investors, and ecosystem builders. Brad’s advice for those who want to help build startup communities is both practical and profound — prioritize relationships, foster inclusivity, and embrace the philosophy of Give First. By doing so, we can create ecosystems that not only support founders but also uplift entire communities.
We’re incredibly grateful to Brad for sharing his time, insights, and passion with us. His work continues to inspire entrepreneurs and community builders around the world, and we’re proud to have hosted this unforgettable event at High Alpha.
For those who missed the event, be sure to grab a copy of Give First: The Power of Mentorship. It’s a must-read for anyone looking to make a meaningful impact in their community and beyond.
