Jay Haendler is the co-founder of Founders Launchpad, a venture capital accelerator that invests in founders from the Philippines.

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👋🏼 How would you explain your job to someone outside tech?

I help newly formed companies grow their businesses via network, mentorship, and direct investment. We take a portion of their company's equity in exchange for what we provide.

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🧐 What's something about you or your job that would surprise us?

My co-founders and I were 25 when we convinced our first LPs to back our vision.

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🏆 What has been the biggest highlight of your career so far?

Getting that "just send over the wiring instructions" comment after many long calls, and then birthing Founders Launchpad.

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🔍 What's a startup trend or space you're watching this year?‍

The creator space—there are so many ways to help creators monetize their following. I am looking for founders starting companies that will unlock that demand.

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💼 What advice would you give someone starting out in your industry? 

Before you start a company, go and figure out what problems there are that people are willing to pay for. 

If you notice a trend, start building around that.

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🗣 What's one thing you can keep talking about for hours? 

Describing meal highlights.

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🎥 What's your favorite movie/TV show? 

Triangle of Sadness.

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🍨 What's your go-to ice cream flavor?‍

Dulce de leche.

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FYI. We've edited this interview for clarity.