Brandale Randolph

I said it, so here's my take on today's Outdoor Retailer show. There is something new (and old) happening. IMO, they should lean in and position it as the place to discover tomorrow's brands, and the buyers will follow. I love Grassroots Outdoor Alliance but for completely separate reasons. At Grasscon, we see our extended family (our retailers) for a reunion twice a year. It's amazing and helps us build real relationships. But we also need to meet some new people, you know. We're still young! The industry needs a place for the next generation to make their mark. Maybe that's OR again? “We met retailers that are brand new, and they’re going to buy their first assortment and are looking for smaller, newer brands that everybody else doesn’t have. And that’s something that you don’t find at the other shows we attend – retailers are looking for new brands here,” said Andrew Gibbs-Dabney, founder of LIVSN, an exhibitor at Outdoor Retailer. “I love seeing people that I only see once or twice a year. When we’re in our little bubble back in Arkansas designing, we’re not out in the world. This is our chance to go out and test the things that we think are great, get feedback, meet people that we haven’t seen in a long time, and really just be a part of the industry.” #tradeshow #outdoorindustry #outdoors https://lnkd.in/gY-fzkGG

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The tide is turning. Companies that understand RISK is the only certainty are prioritizing #reshoring to diversify their manufacturing value chains. https://lnkd.in/eEyC--ED

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Culture is code. What does it mean to you? Comment below! In my latest #podcast episode with Brian R. Yurachek, CEO of New York Culture Club™ and new addition to the Beyond Form portfolio, we discuss the how fashion IoT and the experiences wrapped around the tech can create a new way of connecting between consumers and brands: 1️⃣ The Power of Authentic Self-Expression: success is rooted in the ability to authentically express passions and ideas, even when facing challenges. By being genuine, Brian has been able to connect with people and build strong relationships within the #fashion industry. Not an easy task as Brian tell us how he left his job in banking on Wall Street to enter this very opaque industry. 2️⃣ The Value of Continuous Learning: Brian emphasises the importance of ongoing learning and research. He actively seeks out new information and trends, which has allowed him to stay ahead of the curve and develop innovative solutions to foster human connection. 3️⃣ The Potential of Technology to Enhance Experiences: NYCC's IoT and #blockchain #technology, can be used to enhance consumer experiences and create new value propositions. This means improving product authentication, storytelling, and customer engagement. 🎧 Listen here https://lnkd.in/eayMQ4V9 or on your fave podcast platform. #FashionTech

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Accessibility refers to the extent to which a product, program, service, resource, or environment is usable by a wide range of people, including those with disabilities. Listen to the Swimmers' Doc explain how @Hammer Head Swim Caps plays a crucial role in making swimming safer and more accessible for all. https://zurl.co/NC2D #Accessibility @The Swimmer's Doc

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Last week, I had the pleasure of moderating a discussion on navigating FOAK in climate tech at the Greentown Labs Summit in Boston (which had >600 people!!). Here’s a quick rundown of what was shared by Katherine St. James of Spring Lane Capital, Paris Smalls, PhD of Eden GeoPower, and Hannah Friedman of Planeteer Capital: 🌱 What is the definition of FOAK? We discussed how the term can be controversial - it's almost too general because it doesn't identify what kind of "First" FOAK refers to - first team project? First geography? First of a technology in a sector? First time for the integration of a system? It's also too specific because it has the word "first" in it, which can be anathema to later stage / project finance investors. 💰 Partnerships for Funding FOAK Projects We discussed how important it is to build a blended capital stack & use off-balance sheet capital for a project so you're not using the most expensive equity dollars to fund an infrastructure project with low-ish IRR. We also talked through being creative about using corporate partners to provide in-kind services or ink some agreement (at least an LOI) to attract this funding. 🏛 Role of Government We talked about how government capital is seen by investors & how it can be catalytic for FOAK. Government capital can provide validation that a startup has passed a rigorous diligence process by a third party - and incentives like grants or credits can help improve returns for the first project- but it's important to be doing this in conjunction with getting customer validation and to be able to present line of sight to competitive economics without concessionary capital. 👥 Advice for FOAK startups The panelists offered some very specific pieces of advice for startups going through FOAK: how to get creative with things like revenue sharing agreements or convertible notes, getting smart with project development early on (like with DeveloperU), being careful about using FOAK too liberally with certain investor groups, getting the right commercialization / FOAK talent in and around you early Huge thanks to the panelists and the team at Greentown Labs (Jill Kirkpatrick, Julia Travaglini, Aisling Carlson, etc you rocked it!!) for hosting this discussion on bridging the FOAK gap. Also immensely enjoyed the rest of the agenda. Check out the full recap & videos here: https://lnkd.in/d9ApYe9Y #ClimateTech #FOAK #ClimateFinance #ProjectDevelopment #GreenTech #CleanEnergy

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🌟I had a talk with my fellow #nurse innovator at HLTH USA event. He told me that he was going to win this event, and that's exactly what he did!!!🏆 I am immensely happy for him and celebrate his success.🎊👏 If you are in a #hospital or clinical setting you need Hilario Castillo innovation in your life. His innovative syringe cuts down needle stick by 100% and save your medical facility millions of dollars in needle wasting, plus increase patient comfort. When #nurses innovate we solve real problems!!💎 #nurseonlinkedin #healthcareonlinkedin #healthtech #startup #biotech

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Upcode, Anyone? Let’s Talk Cybercrime, Telecom, and Victim Impact Have you read “Fancy Bear Goes Phishing: The Dark History of the Information Age, in Five Extraordinary Hacks” by Scott J. Shapiro? Shapiro, a Yale law professor and philosopher, introduces two key concepts: • Downcode: The vulnerable computer code itself, ripe for exploitation. • Upcode: The rules governing how we use technology—personal ethics, habits, laws, and social norms. As someone who’s read Shapiro, I can’t help but picture “Fancy Bear” dancing in my head. This concept resonates deeply as I reflect on top-down decisions (or the lack thereof) and their impact, especially after listening to this TADSummit podcast. It’s everything telecom, cybercrime, and the current threat landscape. But let’s get real: the tsunami aftermath for individual victims is staggering. 💥 >1% of financial fraud cases are investigated in the U.S. 💥 Only 15% of cases are reported, yet $12.5 billion in losses were recorded on IC3 in 2023. When extrapolated using FTC data, that suggests >$140 billion stolen. 💥 Victims are TAXED on stolen retirement funds. You don’t need to be a senior citizen for this nightmare to hit. 💥 Can’t pay those taxes? Expect 7% interest repayment arrangements or reduced Social Security payments—with Medicare premiums also impacted. Let that sink in. 🤯 Why? The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017. While some benefit from it, financial crime victims are left to suffer greater losses. But there’s HOPE! You can be part of the change. In this post, you’ll find a copy/paste letter and a link to your congressional representatives. Use your voice to demand action and justice for victims. HERE’S ONE WAY TO PROVIDE RELIEF FOR VICTIMS, N O W 🙏 https://lnkd.in/g66zsipy While brilliant minds work on redesigning Upcode, my focus is on the aftermath of Downcode failures. Let’s fight for dignity, justice, and lasting change—together. #fraudfighters #fraudvictims #fraudsurvivors #journalists #telecom #lawmakers #legislators #advocates

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New York City startups are addressing the lack of charging infrastructure for electric vehicles (EVs) by installing curbside solutions. These startups, such as It’s Electric, Gravity, and Voltpost, offer different approaches, including tapping into existing power sources, utilizing fast charging technology, and integrating chargers into lampposts. Despite challenges like grid capacity and vandalism, these startups aim to make EV ownership more accessible and appealing to urban residents.

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Thank you Max Goldberg for breaking the news and you continued support. I've been reflecting on what this moment means, not only for GoodSAM, PBC, but for the broader impact-driven CPG community. As we announce our Series A financing, I’m both proud and contemplative. Here’s what we’re celebrating: 🚀 A Win for Impact-Driven CPG Brands  In a space where some investors doubted our potential, we found unwavering support from forward-thinking impact funds, our new partners, ALIVE Ventures and Desert Bloom Foods. Their belief in our vision empowers us to build a bridge between global farming communities and one of the most powerful consumer markets, through a brand committed to ethical practices and sustainability. 👥 A Victory for Our Global Team and Farmer Network This funding ensures we can continue our mission of protecting and expanding regenerative farming, guaranteeing fair wages, building essential infrastructure, and fostering growth in communities that have long been overlooked. Together, we are helping to drive real, systemic change in global agriculture and economic justice. But here’s where I’m still grappling: ⚠️ Severe Underfunding of Diverse Founders The underrepresentation of women, BIPOC, and LGBTQ founders in funding is staggering. In 2022, only 1.1% of the $214 billion in venture capital funding went to minority founders, and startups founded solely by women received just 2% of the total capital invested in U.S. venture-backed startups in 2023 (McKinsey & Company)(Rutgers Business School) (Pitchbook). This needs to change if we are to see true diversity in business leadership and innovation. 🌱 The Co-Opting of Regeneration  The concept of regeneration is being hijacked. Instead of uniting behind meaningful solutions, we still face an industry divided. Colonial systems of agriculture persist, with organizations from the global north exerting control over farmers in the global south, dictating who gets to participate and how far we can truly go. But at GoodSAM, we believe regeneration knows no limits — it regenerates forever. 💵 The Pricing Barrier of Sustainable Products  There's still little evidence that the majority of consumers are willing to pay the premiums most brands charge for regenerative, sustainable products. Without more accessible pricing models, we risk alienating the very consumers who could help drive this movement forward. So what’s next?  After taking a moment to celebrate this achievement with the team, we went right back to work. There’s a lot more to do. We remain committed to tackling these challenges head-on, because the future of regenerative agriculture — and the health of our planet and communities — depends on it. #SeriesA #ImpactInvesting #RegenerativeAgriculture #Sustainability #DiverseFounders #GoodSAM #ConsumerProducts #FairTrade #EconomicJustice Marcia Bell Kari Janapareddi Saida Abdala Joe Jessup, CFA Shafia Naima Abdala Gallego Javier Vasquez Greg Krupa

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Massachusetts in 2024 is home to the most climate tech startups per capita in the country. They thrive at institutions like MIT and Greentown Labs, turning big ideas into tangible solutions. But we struggle to keep them here. States from coast to coast are wooing away entrepreneurs and employers. These places facilitate demonstration programs, connect companies to trained workers, and provide access to real estate for manufacturing. The Mass Leads Act rebalances these incentives, directing capital investments and tax benefits that keep these innovators in Boston for the long term and encourages others to join them. #climatetech #climateVC #venturecapital

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Wonderful article about Emily Knight and the whole The Engine Accelerator team on the amazing work their doing changing the world with #ToughTech!

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Although female founders are typically in the minority compared to male founders, we do our best to include them for MELT in NY! Allow me to introduce some remarkable and innovative female founders 🙋‍♀️ ☞ Co-Founder & CEO @ Blanka Stage: Seed Blanka is a platform that automates the process of launching a branded beauty line. With high-quality products manufactured in North America and with no minimums or upfront costs, our technology unifies the process of launching a brand - from product selection through order fulfillment. ☞ Founder & CEO @ FemiSpace Co. Stage: Pre-seed AI doctors for women’s health. ☞ CEO / Founder @ Parrot Finance Stage: Seed Copy trading platform. ☞ Founder and CEO @ InstantReplay Stage: Pre-seed The in-store “cookies” for retail. ☞ Founding Product Manager @ Stealth Stage: Seed Payment management with AI. ☞ Founder @ Copy trading consumer investing platform Stage: Seed Copy trading consumer investing platform. ☞ CEO/Founder @ Bonde Stage: Seed Member-only platform to support the advancement of professional women. ☞ Co-founder @ usebeams com Stage: Seed The next-gen productivity and automation platform for meaningful insights and seamless workflows. ☞ CEO/Founder @ LinSha Techworks Stage: Pre-seed We are improving the speed and safety of flanged pipeline maintenance by bolting/unbolting flanges autonomously. ☞ Co-founder @ Poldit Stage: Pre-seed Poldit is a community for sharing knowledge through interactive livestreams and Q&A, aimed at fostering human connections and reducing misinformation. ☞ CEO @ NaviGuide Stage: Pre-seed Equitable AI guidance counselor. ☞ CEO & Founder @ Transformers Academy Stage: Pre-seed AI-Driven LMS that transforms BORING manuals into ready-to-study employee or client courses in minutes. ☞ Co-founder @ Index Network Stage: Pre-seed Index allows you to create truly personalized and autonomous discovery experiences across the web. ☞ Founder and CEO @ TAMMIRA, INC. Stage: Pre-seed An evidence-based livestreamed health, wellness & beauty programming for kids & young women. ☞ Founder and CEO @ Bridgit Health Stage: Pre-seed Centralized AI-enabled social worker platform for hospitals to reduce delay of discharge. ☞ Chief of Staff (Founding Team) @ Mattermore Stage: Pre-seed Mattermore empowers managers with AI, automating 1:1 call data to boost performance, save time, and reduce stress, productivity loss, and turnover. 【💎 VIP Sponsored by】 ​Bradley Kam ​・Founded 2 companies Unstoppable Domains & Talkable ・Raised over $70M ・Unstoppable Domains recently raised $65M in a Series A round led by Pantera Capital, reaching a $1B valuation. Aquibur Rahman ​Founder of Mailmodo, has received funding from Sequoia and is an alum of Y Combinator S21 ​Nathan Stevenson ​CEO and Founder of ForwardLane Inc. has been featured by Forbes, the World Economic Forum, and American Banker Event link 👉 https://lu.ma/ldbfgkez

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NY Climate Tech Founders! 1) YES PLEASE save the date to join us at #techweek (6/3!), and 2) YES PLEASE share your top NY resources to complete our NY INSIDER GUIDE, in collab with NYCEDC!

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Massachusetts is a powerhouse when it comes to innovation ecosystems. With strengths in key sectors like education, healthcare, biotechnology, artificial intelligence, clean energy, and fintech, the state is at the forefront of transformative advancements. Emerging collaboration, creativity, and growth trends continue to define its ecosystem, supported by a rich history, an innovative environment, and abundant investment opportunities. It’s no surprise that Massachusetts remains a global leader in driving innovation. #InnovationEcosystem #Massachusetts #TechInnovation #Collaboration #CleanEnergy #Fintech #Biotechnology #ArtificialIntelligence #EconomicGrowth #FutureOfTech

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