1/ We just wrapped up our first week of @a16zcrypto Crypto Startup Accelerator (CSX). 

It’s the start of our fifth cohort, which is now back home where it all started, in San Francisco! 

CSX is for any early stage startup that seeks to build with (not just in) crypto; we cover multiple domains of startup building in an ever-changing industry. 

Now, onto week 1!

We back bold entrepreneurs building the next internet. 
a16zcrypto.com/

2/ In the morning of Day 1, we dove into finding Product-Market-Fit in Web3. 

Each CSX team built their plan for achieving PMF and shared it with the broader group for feedback.

One key takeaway: Thinking through PMF from both a top-down and bottom-up perspective can substantially increase chances of success.

Operating Partner & Head of Crypto Startup School 
@a16zcrypto. 25 years working on frontier tech. 2X CEO, 4 exits & most recently VP Subscriptions at Google.

3/ In the afternoon, @a16zcrypto head of security, Carl Agnelli wowed us with stories of his career in the US Secret Service, educated the cohort on the evolution of crypto crime, and shared some common sense tips on staying safe and secure. 

Two pieces of advice that really resonated with me:
- Whenever you check into a new hotel, find and walk the exit stairs so you know where to go in case of an emergency.

- The night before you checkout, put something in the hotel safe that you need the next day (like a shoe). This ensures you don’t inadvertently leave behind critical items in the safe.

4/ For our last session of the day, @a16zcryto's Head of Finacial Ops, Em Westerhold, walked through a hands-on example of how to build an operating plan and manage a budgeting process.

It’s never too early in the startup lifecycle to implement a solid financial planning process. 

As Benjamin Franklin said, “If you fail to plan, you plan to fail.”

5/ After a packed day, we enjoyed a fantastic dinner Che Fico.

The food, ambiance, and conversations were top-notch!

6/ What’s coming in Week 2? 

@tr and the @a16zcrypto Research Team are joining us to share updates on the latest innovations in cryptography, tokenomics, distributed computing and market design. 

Get ready!