Post by Estelle A. Gateau

A few months ago, I took the risk and applied to the Founder Institute #Switzerland spring cohort. Honestly? I had no idea what I was getting myself into. I am building Focus Foundations, a service that trains professionals in early education on how to build focus and self-regulation. I have spent years conducting research, but how to turn it into a viable business? That is a completely different skill set. And that is exactly where I needed help. What I discovered was a programme that doesn't let you hide behind your ideas or your excuses. Every week, you have to show up, do the work, and face questions you would rather avoid. Who exactly is your customer? How will you actually make money? What problem are you really solving? It is clearly uncomfortable and incredibly valuable. But the real magic is the people. The mentors don't just give advice: they genuinely care. They challenge you, they encourage you, and they share insights that only come from real experience. I have learned more in these few weeks than I could have in years on my own. A huge thank you to: Ben Stacey Charlotte Christensen Pamela Wolf Helena Frumson Sush B. Barbara Van Lodensteijn Gregor Zehetner Natasha Drapeau Thomas Walbert Ingeborg Gasser-Kriss Stephan Kreiger Kasia Sadowska Lilla Peczely Dominique Dufour and to my working group, Sergio Dani Abhijeet Satam Nico Asha Venkataramani and Stefan Wuethrich. We made this journey possible together. And hey, I still have so much to learn, and I will bring it so far as I can. Thank you, Founder Institute. #FounderInstitute #StartupJourney #FocusFoundations #EarlyChildhood #Entrepreneurship #Switzerland