How Gen Z Can Find the Next Billion-Dollar Startup Opportunity
Martin Mignot, a partner at Index Ventures and an early investor in Deliveroo, Scale AI, and Figma, became a millionaire before 30 by spotting high-potential startups.
In an exclusive Fortune interview, he shares actionable strategies for Gen Z to build wealth by identifying and joining the next unicorn—startups valued at over $1 billion.
His advice centers on two paths: becoming a founder or joining a promising startup early to gain equity through stock options. This approach, he emphasizes, is key to financial success in today’s tech-driven economy.
Mignot’s journey began with Deliveroo, a small London-based platform with just eight employees and a rudimentary website. Despite its early limitations, Mignot recognized its potential due to founder Will Shu’s hands-on commitment and the exceptional delivery experience.
Today, Deliveroo is a $2.7 billion giant, and Index Ventures has reaped billions from early investments in Figma, Scale AI, and Revolut, cementing Mignot’s reputation as a visionary investor.
For Gen Z, Mignot highlights the unprecedented opportunities enabled by accessible tools and global platforms like Instagram and TikTok.
Founding a startup is high-risk but high-reward, leveraging digital skills to create and market products. Alternatively, joining a fast-growing startup early—ideally at the Series A stage—offers significant equity and career acceleration.
He notes that even non-tech roles, like marketing or sales, are in demand at startups, which often prioritize young, driven talent.
To spot the next unicorn, Mignot advises researching startups backed by top venture capital firms like Index Ventures, as these often signal high-growth potential.
He encourages thorough due diligence, such as analyzing online sources, connecting with current or former employees on LinkedIn, and studying competitors. Thinking globally and avoiding geographic limitations is also critical in today’s interconnected market.
The significance of Mignot’s advice lies in its empowerment of Gen Z to capitalize on the tech boom. For users, it offers a roadmap to financial independence through strategic career choices.
For businesses, it underscores the importance of attracting young talent with equity incentives, fostering innovation and loyalty.
As startups continue to drive economic growth, Mignot’s insights could shape the next generation of entrepreneurs and investors.
FAQ
How can Gen Z identify a promising startup to join?
Research startups backed by reputable venture capital firms like Index Ventures, focusing on Series A companies. Conduct thorough due diligence by analyzing online sources, connecting with employees or ex-employees on LinkedIn, and studying competitors to assess growth potential.
What are the benefits of joining a startup early?
Joining a startup early offers equity through stock options, which can lead to significant wealth if the company succeeds. It also accelerates career growth, providing valuable experience and positioning you for senior roles or future entrepreneurial ventures.
How can Gen Z identify a promising startup to join?
Research startups backed by reputable venture capital firms like Index Ventures, focusing on Series A companies. Conduct thorough due diligence by analyzing online sources, connecting with employees or ex-employees on LinkedIn, and studying competitors to assess growth potential.
What are the benefits of joining a startup early?
Joining a startup early offers equity through stock options, which can lead to significant wealth if the company succeeds. It also accelerates career growth, providing valuable experience and positioning you for senior roles or future entrepreneurial ventures.
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