Supporting Tech Founders in York County
Finding Support and Growth Among Tech Founders in York County
Having walked the exhilarating and sometimes exhausting path of a tech company founder, I understand the unique challenges and triumphs that come with building a business from the ground up. It's a path that often feels lonely and overwhelming. While I have sold my businesses and stepped away from the daily grind of entrepreneurship, my passion for the tech industry and my desire to support fellow technology entrepreneurs remain as strong as ever. That's why I am grateful to be a member of the "Tech Founders of York County" (TFYC) group, where I hope to provide guidance and mentorship, drawing from the valuable lessons I've learned through my experiences in peer-led organizations.
1. The Warm Embrace of a Peer-Led Community
Throughout my entrepreneurial journey, I found immense value in being part of a community where I could share my experiences and learn from others. Entrepreneurs (EO) was my first taste of the power of peer-led support. In these groups, I discovered a safe haven where founders could share their stories openly and without judgment.
2. The Comfort of a Non-Judgmental Haven
One of the most beautiful aspects of this group is the unspoken promise of a safe and judgment-free space. The ethos is simple: We share our entrepreneurial journey without fear of criticism or judgment. After all, Elon Musk once said,
"Failure is an option here. If things are not failing, you are not innovating enough."
In our circle, we embrace this wisdom wholeheartedly. We share our challenges, our doubts, our dreams, and we do so knowing we won't be met with judgment, only with understanding and support.
3. The Wealth of Knowledge and Inspiration
Peer-led groups are not just about sharing; they are about continuous learning and drawing inspiration from successful entrepreneurs. Hosting guest speakers who are influential figures in the business world is a practice I came to cherish. These sessions offer invaluable insights, expand networks, and offer inspiration that echoes Mark Zuckerberg's sentiment:
"The biggest risk is not taking any risk. In a world that’s changing quickly, the only strategy that is guaranteed to fail is not taking risks."
4. The Beauty of Personal and Professional Growth
The journey of entrepreneurship is not just about business development; it’s also about personal and professional growth. As I embarked on this path, I came to resonate deeply with Jeff Bezos's wisdom:
"If you never want to be criticized, for goodness' sake don't do anything new."
In these peer-led communities, I watched as entrepreneurs embraced risks, learned from their mistakes, and evolved not only as business leaders but also as individuals.
Today, in the Tech Founders of York County, my role has shifted from being a tech company founder to a mentor and supporter of fellow entrepreneurs. I bring with me the invaluable experiences and insights gained from my time in peer led groups. While I may have transitioned from the helm of a business, my passion for the tech industry and my commitment to fostering the growth of others remain unwavering. I believe, as Reid Hoffman, co-founder of LinkedIn, once said,
"An entrepreneur is someone who jumps off a cliff and builds a plane on the way down."
My mission now is to help those who are still in the process of building their plan to soar to new heights, knowing that they are not alone, but part of a thriving community that offers wisdom, support, and the spirit of innovation.
Author:
John Blomberg
Co-Founder of Tech Founders of York County
SBDC area manager | founder | tech leader | business consultant | mentor | educator