Post by Jacqueline Jones

While technology accelerates opportunity, human connection still matters deeply. Our team co-hosted “Founders x Funders” Breakfast during NY Tech Week with Microsoft, Serena Ventures The goal was simple….we created an intentional space where venture-backed founders, funders, operators, and ecosystem builders could connect in a meaningful way. This engagement also allowed members of our ERGs and Product groups across Marketing, Product and LinkedIn Marketing Solutions to engage with Founders representing many different backgrounds as we continue building a network that works for everyone. During the event, we highlighted insights from LinkedIn’s report on “How Small Business Can Win in 2026. A few highlights from the report … ➡️ LinkedIn members adding ‘founder’ to their profile jumped 60% year-over-year! ➡️ We are seeing entrepreneurship surging globally, fueled by AI, new models of connection, and the growing ability for builders to scale faster than ever before. ➡️ Three major growth engines are shaping the future for founders: * AI + technology for speed and scale * Brand credibility for trust and visibility * Networks that turn attention into opportunity To address this surge, LinkedIn created Premium All‑in‑One: a single subscription that brings together the most important tools for growth via a centralized dashboard for sales, marketing & hiring. Daniela Bayon highlighted that subscribers are already seeing 60% increase in replies from suggested prospects and 40% more profile views. That’s why I was especially excited about partnerships like this one between LinkedIn, Microsoft for Startups, and Serena Ventures.  TOGETHER, we created practical access points for founders — from strategic networking, to AI and platform expertise, to conversations that can unlock customers, capital, hiring, and long-term growth. Thank you for your partnership Lora ANIS HANNA, Olivia Griffian, Tiffany Johnson Let’s keep building a future where innovation and opportunity are more accessible to everyone. Thank you Chelsea Snow for leading the amazing LinkedIn cohort – Daniela Bayon, D'Andra Moss, PhD , Moza Anthony, Tyrona Heath, Chantal St.Louis Augustin, Tonya Garrett, Desiree Perez, Osayd Qatu, Tina Shoulders, Joy S., Fatoumata Diallo, Jessica Ly