{"id":272294,"date":"2023-03-29T09:22:39","date_gmt":"2023-03-29T08:22:39","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.strategytools.io\/?p=272294"},"modified":"2023-03-29T09:22:39","modified_gmt":"2023-03-29T08:22:39","slug":"nir-melamud-thinkzone","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.strategytools.io\/blog\/nir-melamud-thinkzone\/","title":{"rendered":"Partner Spotlight: How Nir Melamud is Supercharging the Vietnamese Scale Up Ecosystem Together with Thinkzone"},"content":{"rendered":"

[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”Section” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ hover_enabled=”0″ custom_css_main_element=”Text-align:left;||||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_css_main_element_last_edited=”on|desktop” custom_css_main_element__hover_enabled=”off|desktop” custom_css_main_element_tablet=”Text-align:left;||||” custom_css_main_element_phone=”Text-align:left;||||” sticky_enabled=”0″][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_4,3_4″ _builder_version=”4.18.0″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” custom_padding=”||32px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.18.0″ header_text_align=”left” header_2_font=”|600|||||||” header_2_text_color=”#E09900″ header_3_font=”|600|||||||” header_3_text_align=”right” header_3_text_color=”#595959″ header_3_font_size=”16px” background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Strategy Tools:<\/h3>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”|600|on||||||” text_text_color=”#727272″ header_4_font=”|600|on||||||” header_4_text_color=”#515151″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

It\u2019s been a while since our last check-in – could you share a bit about your latest activities?<\/h4>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_4,3_4″ _builder_version=”4.18.0″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” custom_padding=”||32px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.18.0″ header_text_align=”left” header_2_font=”|600|||||||” header_2_text_color=”#E09900″ header_3_font=”|600|||||||” header_3_text_align=”right” header_3_text_color=”#494fe6″ header_3_font_size=”16px” background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” header_text_align_tablet=”left” header_text_align_phone=”left” header_text_align_last_edited=”on|phone” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Nir Melamud:<\/h3>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

At FreshStart, we work with startups and investments, with a focus on early-mid-stage startups as part of my day-to-day work, mostly on their investor readiness, GTM methods & strategy.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

In addition, I\u2019ve been engaged with some business schools in Israel (Tel Aviv University, Raichman University, and others) to embed parts of our Investor Readiness programs we run in their curriculum. This is one of those long-term projects I hope will get realized very soon. <\/span><\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_4,3_4″ _builder_version=”4.18.0″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” custom_padding=”||32px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.18.0″ header_text_align=”left” header_2_font=”|600|||||||” header_2_text_color=”#E09900″ header_3_font=”|600|||||||” header_3_text_align=”right” header_3_text_color=”#40420b” header_3_font_size=”16px” background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Strategy Tools:<\/h3>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”|600|on||||||” text_text_color=”#727272″ header_4_font=”|600|on||||||” header_4_text_color=”#515151″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

You have been one of Strategy Tools\u2019 most active members in terms of learning new skills (Scale Up Coach<\/a>, simulations, etc), as well as jumping on new projects in collaboration with us – could you share how your experience on the Strategy Tools Master Trainer<\/a> program in Sep 2023 has helped shaped your role in Strategy Tools, as well as your expertise?<\/h4>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_4,3_4″ _builder_version=”4.18.0″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” custom_padding=”||32px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text content_tablet=”<\/p>\n

Nir Melamud:<\/h3>\n

” content_phone=”<\/p>\n

Nir Melamud:<\/h3>\n

” content_last_edited=”on|desktop” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ header_2_font=”|600|||||||” header_2_text_color=”#E09900″ header_3_font=”|600|||||||” header_3_text_align=”right” header_3_text_color=”#494fe6″ header_3_font_size=”16px” background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Nir Melamud:<\/h3>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

The Master Trainer program is a unique experience. It\u2019s not for beginners and ideally, you should have a decent (some may say thorough) understanding of a variety of strategic domains, such as Corporate & Innovation Strategy, Startups & Venture Capital financing, Clusters & Innovation Ecosystems, and others.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

During the 2.5 years prior to STMT, I dived into the Strategy Tools methodologies, toolkits, and canvases, uplifting my strategic skill set significantly. It was a combination of enrolling in the different Strategy Tools academic courses as well as collaborating through real client projects.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The STMT helped connect the dots. Everything in Strategy Tools is linked together. Once you understand how startups and venture capital play a significant role in corporates\u2019 innovation strategy, or how clusters attract key stakeholders, such as startups, VCs & corporates – your ability to deliver a much broader solution to the different parties – increases significantly.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

As Strategy Tools grows, broader projects are coming to life, and I\u2019m happy to enhance my collaboration with Strategy Tools as a partner. <\/span><\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/www.strategytools.io\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/thinkzone-vietnam-3.jpg” title_text=”thinkzone vietnam 3″ _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_4,3_4″ _builder_version=”4.18.0″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” custom_padding=”||32px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.18.0″ header_text_align=”left” header_2_font=”|600|||||||” header_2_text_color=”#E09900″ header_3_font=”|600|||||||” header_3_text_align=”right” header_3_text_color=”#40420b” header_3_font_size=”16px” background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Strategy Tools:<\/h3>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”|600|on||||||” text_text_color=”#727272″ header_4_font=”|600|on||||||” header_4_text_color=”#515151″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

You recently travelled on behalf of ST to Vietnam for a week to work with ThinkZone, VN\u2019s most active VC. I\u2019d like to go more in-depth about your experience there:<\/h4>\n

How was the experience facilitating Scale Up! for a VC team across the globe?<\/h4>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_4,3_4″ _builder_version=”4.18.0″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” custom_padding=”||32px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.18.0″ header_text_align=”left” header_2_font=”|600|||||||” header_2_text_color=”#E09900″ header_3_font=”|600|||||||” header_3_text_align=”right” header_3_text_color=”#494fe6″ header_3_font_size=”16px” background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Nir Melamud:<\/h3>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

We have been delivering Scale-Up! Masterclasses across the globe for over 3 years now, mostly due to our ability to deliver it 100% digital. So the global aspect is not new.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

What we see more and more lately are global in-person engagements, and once everything is planned and executed accordingly – the Scale-Up! experience just works.<\/span><\/p>\n

In short, the masterclass consists of the Scale-Up! Simulation run, with deep dives into beginners, intermediate, and advanced fundraising topics and tools, in a very high-paced, steep learning curve engagement.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

All participants were active throughout the entire masterclass and shared their challenges, ideas, questions, and insights.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Me, as a facilitator, I always aim for one thing: to significantly change and impact participants’ mindsets. In ThinkZone’s case, to acknowledge the participants with a global mindset, \u2018think big\u2019 mentality, and long-term value creation planning.<\/span><\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/www.strategytools.io\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/thinkzone-vietnam-4.jpg” title_text=”thinkzone vietnam 4″ _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_4,3_4″ _builder_version=”4.18.0″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” custom_padding=”||32px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.18.0″ header_text_align=”left” header_2_font=”|600|||||||” header_2_text_color=”#E09900″ header_3_font=”|600|||||||” header_3_text_align=”right” header_3_text_color=”#40420b” header_3_font_size=”16px” background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Strategy Tools:<\/h3>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”|600|on||||||” text_text_color=”#727272″ header_4_font=”|600|on||||||” header_4_text_color=”#515151″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

How did the participants \/ client experience the masterclass?<\/h4>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_4,3_4″ _builder_version=”4.18.0″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” custom_padding=”||32px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.18.0″ header_text_align=”left” header_2_font=”|600|||||||” header_2_text_color=”#E09900″ header_3_font=”|600|||||||” header_3_text_align=”right” header_3_text_color=”#494fe6″ header_3_font_size=”16px” background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Nir Melamud:<\/h3>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

During the sessions, the founders had the chance to experience a full \u2018Idea to Exit\u2019 journey, deal with real-life early-stage & growth stage investors, practice their deal-making skills, and create value for their venture and their investors.<\/p>\n

\u201cMind-changing\u201d, \u201cStress\u201d, and \u201cValuable\u201d,… were some of the keywords from the startup founders\u2019 feedback. I\u2019ll add one more quote from the session itself: \u201c I think I played the wrong fundraising game until now\u2026\u201d.<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_4,3_4″ _builder_version=”4.18.0″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” custom_padding=”||32px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.18.0″ header_text_align=”left” header_2_font=”|600|||||||” header_2_text_color=”#E09900″ header_3_font=”|600|||||||” header_3_text_align=”right” header_3_text_color=”#40420b” header_3_font_size=”16px” background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Strategy Tools:<\/h3>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”|600|on||||||” text_text_color=”#727272″ header_4_font=”|600|on||||||” header_4_text_color=”#515151″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

What were the key outcomes of your one week in Vietnam with ThinkZone?<\/h4>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_4,3_4″ _builder_version=”4.18.0″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” custom_padding=”||32px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.18.0″ header_text_align=”left” header_2_font=”|600|||||||” header_2_text_color=”#E09900″ header_3_font=”|600|||||||” header_3_text_align=”right” header_3_text_color=”#494fe6″ header_3_font_size=”16px” background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Nir Melamud:<\/h3>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

First, running a full in-person Scale-Up! Simulation is a great facilitation experience I advise partners to have in their toolboxes. It just brings on more opportunities.<\/p>\n

I\u2019ve got the chance to meet great key stakeholders in Vietnam, like SwissEP partners, AWS leaders, economic developers, and others. I\u2019ve learned that the Vietnamese ecosystem is active, both in Hanoi & Ho Chi Minh City, and there\u2019s an immense interest in uplifting the local competencies, to make Vietnam a global leader in various fields.<\/p>\n

I truly believe that this engagement is the first of many to come, in Vietnam & Southeast Asia.<\/p>\n

Finally, I\u2019d like to thank ThinkZone & SwissEP (our supportive partners) for bringing this masterclass to Vietnam, thus promoting the Vietnamese ecosystem.<\/p>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/www.strategytools.io\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/03\/thinkzone-vietnam-2.jpg” title_text=”thinkzone vietnam 2″ _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_4,3_4″ _builder_version=”4.18.0″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” custom_padding=”||32px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.18.0″ header_text_align=”left” header_2_font=”|600|||||||” header_2_text_color=”#E09900″ header_3_font=”|600|||||||” header_3_text_align=”right” header_3_text_color=”#40420b” header_3_font_size=”16px” background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Strategy Tools:<\/h3>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”|600|on||||||” text_text_color=”#727272″ header_4_font=”|600|on||||||” header_4_text_color=”#515151″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

What were your key takeaways as a Scale-Up! facilitator?<\/h4>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_4,3_4″ _builder_version=”4.18.0″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” custom_padding=”||32px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.18.0″ header_text_align=”left” header_2_font=”|600|||||||” header_2_text_color=”#E09900″ header_3_font=”|600|||||||” header_3_text_align=”right” header_3_text_color=”#494fe6″ header_3_font_size=”16px” background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

Nir Melamud:<\/h3>\n

[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

    \n
  1. Planning the Scale-Up! Masterclass A to Z – is a must.<\/li>\n
  2. Be flexible and adjust according to participants’ level & needs<\/li>\n
  3. Scale-Up! Simulation is not about rolling dices. It\u2019s about the content.<\/li>\n
  4. Each Card\/Content holds a real-life story. Take advantage of it to make impact.<\/li>\n
  5. Always keep in mind the participants’ level of knowledge and help balance it.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n

    [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_4,3_4″ _builder_version=”4.18.0″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” custom_padding=”||32px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.18.0″ header_text_align=”left” header_2_font=”|600|||||||” header_2_text_color=”#E09900″ header_3_font=”|600|||||||” header_3_text_align=”right” header_3_text_color=”#40420b” header_3_font_size=”16px” background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

    Strategy Tools:<\/h3>\n

    [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”|600|on||||||” text_text_color=”#727272″ header_4_font=”|600|on||||||” header_4_text_color=”#515151″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

    How do you think your experience with Strategy Tools Master Trainer, Scale Up Coach and Strategy Tools in general helped prepare you for a project like this?<\/h4>\n

    [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_4,3_4″ _builder_version=”4.18.0″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” custom_padding=”||32px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.18.0″ header_text_align=”left” header_2_font=”|600|||||||” header_2_text_color=”#E09900″ header_3_font=”|600|||||||” header_3_text_align=”right” header_3_text_color=”#494fe6″ header_3_font_size=”16px” background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

    Nir Melamud:<\/h3>\n

    [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

    As in most academic courses or bootcamps, you attend, you are handed a handful of methodologies and tools to do your job better. The same goes with Strategy Tools. It\u2019s up to you, as a partner, to decide how you take it further.<\/p>\n

    This project was all about ST\u2019s products & toolkit. My previous engagements as a co-facilitator with Chris helped me understand the logic behind the workflow of Scale-Up!, and practice facilitation techniques. Without it – I couldn\u2019t have run a full in-person simulation alone.<\/p>\n

    It requires time & effort, but it benefits you in the long-term.<\/p>\n

    [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_4,3_4″ _builder_version=”4.18.0″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” custom_padding=”||32px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.18.0″ header_text_align=”left” header_2_font=”|600|||||||” header_2_text_color=”#E09900″ header_3_font=”|600|||||||” header_3_text_align=”right” header_3_text_color=”#40420b” header_3_font_size=”16px” background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

    Strategy Tools:<\/h3>\n

    [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” text_font=”|600|on||||||” text_text_color=”#727272″ header_4_font=”|600|on||||||” header_4_text_color=”#515151″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

    For other partners, with less experience than yourself, that are just getting started, how would you recommend them getting started on their partner journey?<\/h4>\n

    [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_4,3_4″ _builder_version=”4.18.0″ background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” custom_padding=”||32px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.18.0″ header_text_align=”left” header_2_font=”|600|||||||” header_2_text_color=”#E09900″ header_3_font=”|600|||||||” header_3_text_align=”right” header_3_text_color=”#494fe6″ header_3_font_size=”16px” background_size=”initial” background_position=”top_left” background_repeat=”repeat” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

    Nir Melamud:<\/h3>\n

    [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.16″ custom_padding=”|||” global_colors_info=”{}” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

    Collaboration with Strategy Tools can come in many shapes and forms. Some come to add more gunpowder to their weapons. Some come to learn facilitation approaches. Some come for business development, while some are embedding content into their academy curriculum.<\/p>\n

    Regardless of the reason, being active is a key ingredient. Once you\u2019re active, things happen. I\u2019ll give you an example: Chris and ST\u2019s team create about 10-15 new tools a month. I\u2019m usually one of those partners who get access to these tools very early on.<\/p>\n

    Why? Because I am happy to share feedback (regardless of good or bad), after experiencing it with my clients. So this is mutually beneficial for Strategy Tools and myself.<\/p>\n

    The same goes for sharing ideas in the partner group or having collaborations with other ST partners. It creates confidence between parties and brings on more opportunities.<\/p>\n

    [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”rgba(158,198,255,0.2)” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row column_structure=”2_5,3_5″ _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”40px||42px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”2_5″ _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_image src=”https:\/\/www.strategytools.io\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/07\/Nir-480-x-600.jpg” title_text=”Nir (480 x 600)” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_image][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”3_5″ _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

    Nir Melamud<\/h2>\n

    Located at the heart of the Israeli entrepreneurial ecosystem scene, Nir has been working with some of the most disruptive B2B & B2C Israeli ventures for almost a decade now. His background in Marketing & GTM strategies, combined with mastering the fundraising process \u2013 creates unique valuable expertise for early-stage companies.<\/p>\n

    In his work with accelerators, incubators and innovation hubs, Nir provides \u2018Investor Readiness\u2019 solutions & services, workshops & simulations facilitation, side-by-side with strategic advisory.<\/p>\n

    Nir also acts as the managing partner of Tech Investor Club, where he assesses 100s of global startups a year and invests in a few, keeping long-lasting, value-creation-oriented relationships with them.<\/p>\n

    Connect on LinkedIn<\/a><\/p>\n

    [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”#404fe6″ global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” header_2_text_align=”center” header_2_text_color=”#FFFFFF” custom_padding=”42px||0px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n

    Kickstart your journey with Strategy Tools, learn how you can partner with us.<\/h2>\n

    [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_button button_url=”https:\/\/beta.strategytools.io\/partner\/” url_new_window=”on” button_text=”Learn More” button_alignment=”center” _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” custom_button=”on” button_text_color=”#404fe6″ button_bg_color=”#43ffcf” button_border_color=”RGBA(255,255,255,0)” button_use_icon=”off” custom_margin=”||46px||false|false” custom_padding=”||9px||false|false” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_button][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ _builder_version=”4.18.0″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_section]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

    Strategy Tools: It\u2019s been a while since our last check-in – could you share a bit about your latest activities? Nir Melamud: At FreshStart, we work with startups and investments, with a focus on early-mid-stage startups as part of my day-to-day work, mostly on their investor readiness, GTM methods & strategy.\u00a0 In addition, I\u2019ve been […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":272323,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_et_pb_use_builder":"on","_et_pb_old_content":"

    ST:<\/h2>

    It\u2019s been a while since our last check-in - could you share a bit about your latest activities with your company FreshStart?<\/p>

    Nir:<\/h2>


    At FreshStart, we work with startups and investments, with a premiere focus on early-mid-stage startups as part of my day-to-day work, mostly on their investor readiness, GTM methods & strategy.
    In addition, I\u2019ve been engaged with some business schools in Israel (Tel Aviv University, Raichman University, and others) to embed parts of our Investor Readiness programs we run in their curriculum. This is one of those long-term projects I hope will get realized very soon.<\/p>


    You have been one of ST\u2019s most active members in terms of learning new skills (SUCO, simulations, etc), as well as jumping on new projects in collaboration with us - could you share how your experience on the STMT program in Sep 2023 has helped shaped your role in ST as well as your expertise?
    The Master Trainer program is a unique experience. It\u2019s not for beginners and ideally, you should have a decent (some may say thoroughly) understanding of a variety of strategic domains, such as Corporate & Innovation Strategy, Startups & Venture Capital financing, Clusters & Innovation Ecosystems, and others.
    During the 2.5 years prior to STMT, I dived into the Strategy Tools methodologies, toolkits, and canvases, uplifting my strategic skill set significantly. It was a combination of enrolling the different academic ST\u2019s courses and collaborating through real client projects.
    The STMT helped connect the dots. Everything in StrategyTools is linked together. Once you understand how startups and venture capital play a significant role in corporates\u2019 innovation strategy, or how clusters attract key stakeholders, as startups, VCs & corporates - your ability to deliver a much broader solution to the different parties - increases significantly.
    As Strategy Tools grows, broader projects are coming to life, and I\u2019m happy to enhance my collaboration with Strategy Tools as a partner.<\/p>


    You recently travelled on behalf of ST to Vietnam for a week to work with ThinkZone, VN\u2019s most active VC. I\u2019d like to go more in-depth about your experience there:<\/p>

    How was the experience facilitating Scale Up! for a VC team across the globe?<\/p>

    We are delivering Scale-Up! Masterclasses across the globe to many clients for more than 3 years now, mostly due to our ability to deliver it 100% digital. So the global aspect is not new.<\/p>


    What we see more and more lately are global in-person engagements, and once everything is planned and executed accordingly - the Scale-Up! experience just works.<\/p>


    In short, the masterclass consists of the Scale-Up! Simulation run, with deep dives into beginners, Intermediate, and advanced fundraising topics and tools, in a very high-paced, steep learning curve engagement.<\/p>


    All participants were active throughout the entire masterclass and shared their challenges, ideas, questions, and insights.<\/p>


    Me, as a facilitator, I always aim for one thing: to significantly change and impact participants' mindsets. In the ThinkZone case, to acknowledge the participants with a global mindset, \u2018think big\u2019 mentality, and long-term value creation planning.<\/p>

    \u00a0<\/p>


    How did the participants \/ client experienced the masterclass?<\/p>

    During the sessions, the founders had the chance to experience a full \u2018Idea to Exit\u2019 journey, deal with real-life early-stage & growth stage investors, practice their deal-making skills, and create value for their venture and their investors.<\/p>


    \u201cMind-changing\u201d, \u201cStress\u201d, and \u201cValuable\u201d,... were some of the keywords from the startup founders\u2019 feedback. I\u2019ll add one more quote from the session itself: \u201c I think I played the wrong fundraising game until now\u2026\u201d.<\/p>

    \u00a0<\/p>

    What were the key outcomes of your one week in VN?<\/p>

    First, running a full in-person Scale-Up! Simulation is a great facilitation experience I advise partners to have in their toolboxes. It just brings on more opportunities.<\/p>


    I\u2019ve got the chance to meet great key stakeholders in Vietnam. Out SwissEP partners, AWS leaders, economic developers, and others. I\u2019ve learned that the Vietnamese ecosystem is active, both in Hanoi & Ho Chi Minh City, and there\u2019s an immense interest in uplifting the local competencies, to make Vietnam a global leader in various fields.<\/p>


    I truly believe that this engagement is the first of many to come, in Vietnam & SE Asia.<\/p>

    Finally, I\u2019d like to thank ThinkZone & SwissEP (our supportive partners) for bringing this masterclass to Vietnam, thus promoting the Vietnamese ecosystem.<\/p>

    \u00a0<\/p>

    \u00a0<\/p>


    What were your key takeaways as a Scale-Up! facilitator?<\/p>


    Plan the Scale-Up! Masterclass A to Z - is a must.
    Be flexible and adjust according to participants level & needs
    Scale-Up! Simulation is not about rolling dices. It\u2019s about the content.
    Each Card\/Content holds a real-life story. Take advantage of it to make impact.
    Always keep in mind the participants level of knowledge and help balance it.<\/p>

    \u00a0<\/p>

    How do you think your experience with STMT, SUCO and ST in general helped prepare you for a project like this?<\/p>

    As in most academic courses or boot-camps, you attend, you are handed a handful of methodologies and tools to do your job better. The same goes with Strategy tools (SUCO, STMT) but it\u2019s up to you, as a partner, to decide how you take it further.<\/p>


    This project was all about ST\u2019s products & toolkit. My previous engagements as a co-facilitator with Chris helped me understand the logic behind the workflow of Scale-Up!, and practice facilitation techniques. Without it - I couldn\u2019t run a full in-person simulation, alone.<\/p>


    It requires time & effort, but it is beneficiary.<\/p>

    \u00a0<\/p>


    For other partners, with less experience than yourself, that are just getting started, how would you recommend them getting started on their partner journey?<\/p>


    Collaboration with Strategy Tools can come in many shapes and forms. Some come to add more gunpowder to their weapons. Some come to learn facilitation approaches. Some come for business development, while some are embedding content into their academy curriculum.<\/p>


    Regardless of the reason, Activeness is a key ingredient. Once you\u2019re active, things happen. I\u2019ll give you an example: Chris and ST\u2019s team create about 10-15 new tools a month. I\u2019m usually one of those partners who get access to these tools very early on.<\/p>


    Why? Because I am happy to share feedback (regardless of good or bad), after experiencing it with my clients. So mutual beneficiary both for Strategy Tools and myself.<\/p>


    The same goes for sharing ideas on our partner\u2019s Telegram group or having collaborations with other ST partners. It creates confidence between parties and brings on more opportunities.<\/p>","_et_gb_content_width":"","content-type":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[29,25],"tags":[],"ppma_author":[19],"class_list":["post-272294","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-partners","category-stories"],"authors":[{"term_id":19,"user_id":1,"is_guest":0,"slug":"admin","display_name":"Strategy Tools Team","avatar_url":{"url":"https:\/\/www.strategytools.io\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/ST-Black-Logo.png","url2x":"https:\/\/www.strategytools.io\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/ST-Black-Logo.png"},"first_name":"","last_name":"","user_url":"https:\/\/www.strategytools.io","job_title":"","description":""}],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.strategytools.io\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/272294","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.strategytools.io\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.strategytools.io\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.strategytools.io\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.strategytools.io\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=272294"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.strategytools.io\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/272294\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.strategytools.io\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/272323"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.strategytools.io\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=272294"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.strategytools.io\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=272294"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.strategytools.io\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=272294"},{"taxonomy":"author","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.strategytools.io\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/ppma_author?post=272294"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}