The Decade-Long Startup: Insights from Craig Osborne

The Isle of Man Chapter of Startup Grind is hosting ‘The Decade-Long Startup: Insights from Craig Osborne’ a fireside chat event featuring the renowned tech investor and entrepreneur. Join Startup Grind on Wednesday, 19th June from 5:30pm to 7:30pm at the Santander Work Café, Isle of Man, for an inspiring evening designed for local entrepreneurs, business owners, investors, and aspiring innovators.

This event is proudly sponsored by design and web development agency, Afundi and supported by our media partner, Media Isle of Man.

Craig Osborne’s journey is a remarkable one, marked by a decade-long stint in the startup phase, transitioning from a programmer to a successful entrepreneur, and tech investor. During the fireside chat, Craig will share insights into the challenges and triumphs of his career to date, including the risks he took and the sacrifices he made along the way.

Key topics covered will include:

• The Reality of a Prolonged Startup Phase: Craig’s experience of being in the 'startup phase' for 10 years and the lessons learned.
• From Programmer to Investor: His journey and the evolution of his career.
• Mental Health and Entrepreneurship: The importance of mental health, the struggles faced by entrepreneurs, and the benefits of coaching and therapy.
• Success Despite Dyslexia: Craig’s journey overcoming mild dyslexia to achieve academic and professional success.
• Building a World-Class Team: How Craig assembled top talent to transform an opportunity into a successful business.
• Lessons Learned in Building and Exiting a Business: Critical insights and strategies Craig used to grow Iforium, and the real reasons behind his decision to step away.
• Rejecting External Investment Offers: Why Craig chose to self-fund his venture and the benefits of maintaining control.
• What’s Next: Craig's future plans, including the launch of Ebitza Capital, which focuses on providing early-round angel investments and mentorship to startups, and what he looks for when investing in businesses.

Who Should Attend:

• Established and early-stage founders and business owners
• Networking enthusiasts seeking connections with local founders
• Enterprising students and aspiring entrepreneurs
• Investors and service providers supporting the Isle of Man entrepreneurship ecosystem

The evening will also feature engaging discussions, networking opportunities, and food from the award-winning Bakehouse team. Attendees will have the chance to interact with Craig Osborne directly during the audience Q&A session, alongside the StartUp Grind Isle of Man team.

Event Details:

• 17:30 – 18:00: Arrival and networking
• 18:00 – 18:40: Fireside chat with Craig Osborne
• 18:40 – 19:30: Audience Q&A and continued networking

Hosted by The Isle of Man Chapter of Startup Grind, the world's largest community of entrepreneurs, this event promises to inspire, educate, and connect individuals passionate about entrepreneurship and innovation. For further information and to purchase tickets, visit: Start Up Grind