Underscore VC’s Michael Skok reveals what really drives startup success—beyond the idea itself.
Join us at the Harvard Innovation Labs for an engaging workshop with Michael Skok, a veteran venture investor, entrepreneur, and founding partner at Underscore VC. With decades of experience guiding founders from idea to billions in value, Michael will share invaluable insights on what truly drives startup success. While many founders understand the importance of customer discovery and the need to identify and address customer needs, not everyone applies these principles effectively. After reviewing hundreds of venture applications, we’ve found that early founders often focus too heavily on their initial ideas — some rush to build and launch without sufficient validation, while others become overly focused on implementation details. In this session, Michael will explore why ideas alone account for only a small part of a venture’s success, what it really means to understand customer needs, and the deeper factors that determine whether a startup struggles or thrives.
Heads up: Michael will make you think hard about your venture and approach — so come prepared!
ABOUT THE SPEAKER
GETTING TO THE HARVARD INNOVATION LABS
The Harvard Innovation Labs is located on the first floor of Batten Hall at 125 Western Avenue, Allston, MA 02134. We are situated on the Harvard Business School campus, a 15–20 minute walk from Harvard Square. You can also use the Harvard shuttle. The University offers daily parking for faculty, staff, students, visitors, and guests in the HBS lot on Western Avenue. The HBS lot is available 24/7 and accepts both cash and credit card payments.
ACCESSIBILITY STATEMENT
The Harvard Innovation Labs welcomes attendees of all abilities to our events, both in person and online.
Requests for American Sign Language interpreters and/or CART providers should be made at least two weeks in advance, if possible. Please note that the University will make every effort to secure services, but that services are subject to availability.
If you would like to request accommodations or have questions about physical access, please contact i-lab@harvard.edu in advance of the event.
FUTURE COMMUNICATIONS
Please note: By registering, you agree to receive emails about this event and future communications from the Harvard Innovation Labs.
