Launching a startup is more than just having a great idea, it’s about navigating uncertainty, solving problems you’ve never encountered before, and knowing when to lean on others for guidance. When I started UpAhead, I quickly realized that going at it alone wasn’t an option. I needed guidance, connections, and resources beyond what I could find on my own. That’s where my startup network came in.
Being part of a strong startup community provides more than just networking opportunities—it gives you access to mentors, investors, resources, and a community that understands the struggles of building something from scratch. Whether it’s an incubator, accelerator, or a network of experienced founders, surrounding yourself with the right people can make all the difference in a startup’s success.
Joining the right startup community depends on where you are in your journey. For me, the Boyd Innovation Center served as the community I needed to refine UpAhead, helping me shape my idea into a scalable product.
Choose the Right Startup Program to Match Your Goals
Not all incubators or accelerators are created equal, so it’s important to pick one that aligns with your startup’s needs. Here are a few things to consider:
Industry Alignment: Look for programs with expertise in your space. Whether it’s tech, health, or consumer products, specialized support matters.
Mentor Quality: Seek programs where the mentors have real-world experience building companies—not just advising them.
Funding Structure: Understand what’s on the table. Some accelerators offer capital in exchange for equity, while others are non-dilutive.
Community Strength: Alumni networks and investor relationships often outlast the program itself. Choose a program with an active, engaged ecosystem.
Program Design: Know your working style. Some founders thrive with structure; others need flexibility. The right fit will keep you moving forward.
For UpAhead, the Boyd Innovation Center was the structured support system I needed. It connected me with experienced mentors, provided networking opportunities, and helped me refine my vision while giving me the confidence to move forward.
Avoid Common Networking Mistakes Founders Make
A strong startup network isn’t built by simply attending events. Founders need to engage with intention, seek meaningful connections, and contribute value to the community.
Here are some common networking mistakes founders make and how to avoid them:
Focusing Only on Investors: Many founders only network when they need funding. But relationships with mentors, advisors, and fellow entrepreneurs can be just as valuable, if not more, than immediate financial backing.
Not Following Up: Meeting someone at an event is great, but if you don’t follow up, the relationship won’t go anywhere. Send a quick email, connect on LinkedIn, and keep the conversation going.
Failing to Give Before You Take: The best networking is reciprocal. Offer help, share insights, or connect people in your network. A strong reputation will make others more willing to help when you need it.
Sticking Only to Your Comfort Zone: Don’t just network with people in your industry. Cross-industry insights can spark unexpected ideas and opportunities.
Find Mentors Who Will Challenge and Support Your Growth
The right mentors can help you move faster, make better decisions, and avoid costly mistakes. For me, mentorship wasn’t just about encouragement, it was about being challenged to think bigger, dig deeper, and operate with more intention. Through the Boyd Innovation Center, I connected with founders and experts who had already been through the challenges I was facing.
If you’re looking for mentorship, here are a few ways to find the right people:
Attend events: Conferences, pitch nights, and startup meetups are great places to connect with experienced founders and industry experts.
Engage in communities: Online groups like Slack, Twitter, or LinkedIn founder circles offer real-time access to advice and accountability.
Network intentionally: Seek out people you admire, ask thoughtful questions, and stay in touch.
Join an incubator or accelerator: These programs are designed to connect you with peers on the same journey as you and mentors who have been through what you’re facing.
Mentorship is rarely handed out. It’s something you cultivate by showing up, staying curious, and building real relationships.
Build a Startup Network That Lasts
A strong startup network is built on trust, shared experiences, and relationships that grow alongside your business. Whether it’s an incubator, accelerator, or a mentor who believes in your vision, investing in your network early pays off over time.
My advice? Be intentional about the people you surround yourself with. Relationships are what carry your startup through the hard days, the pivots, and the wins. For me, the Boyd Innovation Center was more than just a support system. It became the launchpad that helped turn my idea into a scalable product.
Wherever you are in your journey, find a program or community that challenges you, supports you, and holds you accountable. No one builds a startup alone, and the right network can take you farther than you ever expected.
Thomas Lentine recently graduated from the University of South Carolina (USC) with a Master’s in Human Resources. While in undergrad at USC, he created complex spreadsheets to keep track of his coursework—something that quickly spread among friends and fraternity brothers. That experience sparked the idea for UpAhead, a platform designed to help students stay organized by turning their syllabi into a clear plan for the semester. Originally from New Jersey, Thomas loves to travel, read, exercise and meet new people.
