What It Takes to Build a Startup | Andrew Chen & Matt Perault

"Little Tech" defines the earliest stage of startup formation, where teams of two to three people operate from kitchen tables, focused entirely on product-market fit and survival. The a16z Speedrun program supports these founders at inception, providing capital and guidance before they have formal corporate structures. These nascent companies face significant friction from cumulative regulatory burdens, as they lack the time, lobbyists, or legal resources to navigate complex compliance landscapes. Because these founders are highly mobile, they prioritize locations offering robust access to capital, talent, and universities. Policymakers frequently overlook these early-stage entities, often relying on input from established big tech firms, which results in a skewed understanding of the broader industry. Engaging directly with these founders is essential for creating environments that foster innovation and support the next generation of job creators.