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FCC's Brendan Carr on Starlink subsidy revocation, China's internet ambitions, and TikTok | E1870

This Week in Startups

Sun Dec 24 2023



Starlink vs. StarNet:

  • China's launch of StarNet poses a significant challenge, potentially altering the global internet landscape with its satellite-based internet service.
  • The emergence of competition from Amazon's offering and Hughes' low earth orbit offering in conjunction with Starlink may lead to a price war among satellite internet providers.

Regulatory Harassment of Elon Musk:

  • President Biden's statement about looking into Elon Musk has led to what seems like an unprecedented pace and cadence of regulatory inquiries targeting him across multiple administrative agencies.
  • The FCC's decision to revoke Starlink's $900 million subsidy was perceived as regulatory harassment of Elon Musk by the Biden administration.

Impact of 5G and Satellite Internet:

  • The convergence of technologies in 5G and fixed wireless is transforming connectivity options, allowing wirelessly delivered high-speed service that competes with traditional broadband providers.
  • Fixed wireless technologies like Starlink offer efficient solutions for bridging the digital divide in rural areas, providing cost-effective alternatives compared to fiber build-outs.

China's Global Internet Ambitions:

  • China aims to become a global internet provider, potentially undercutting competitors like Starlink and Amazon in terms of pricing.
  • Concerns are raised about offering nations in Africa internet filters and censorship that align with the CCP's interests, which could significantly impact geopolitics.
  • Huawei is mentioned as having an 80% market share in Nairobi, Kenya, indicating its strong presence in African markets.

TikTok's Influence and Foreign Influence:

  • TikTok has been under scrutiny for its potential to be strategically used by foreign nations, particularly the CCP, as evidenced by pro-Hamas content trending during the Middle Eastern conflict.
  • There are concerns regarding surveillance and foreign influence through platforms like TikTok, especially in relation to targeting select US politicians for criticism.
  • The federal government's handling of TikTok is discussed, including passing a nationwide ban on TikTok for federal devices.

The Importance of Early Company Startups:

  • 2023 is highlighted as an opportune time to start a company due to it being built on previous super cycles such as the PC revolution, internet revolution, app and cloud revolution, leading into the AI revolution and globalization.
  • Starting a company during this period is emphasized as advantageous due to its foundation on past technological revolutions and potential for rapid global expansion.

Founder University Pre-Accelerator Program:

  • Founder University offers a 12-week course providing essential knowledge about creating startups, covering aspects such as launching products, customer acquisition strategies, business models, and scaling companies.
  • The program encourages individuals with various skill sets - developers, UX/UI designers, growth hackers - to participate with the aim of fostering their entrepreneurial journey.
  • The program also offers applicants the opportunity to apply for $25,000 in funding every week if they need it

Investment in Found University:

  • Jason Calacanis has invested in approximately 70-80 companies, providing checks ranging from $25,000 to $500,000.
  • The investment approach is flexible, with the option for direct investments and a focus on learning and gaining experience even if a startup fails.

Artificial Intelligence Super Cycle:

  • Jason Calacanis emphasizes the current era as the start of an artificial intelligence super cycle that builds upon previous advancements.
  • Running a company has become more cost-effective due to technological progress, making it an opportune time for aspiring entrepreneurs.

Founder University Application:

  • Prospective candidates are encouraged to apply to Founder University regardless of their uncertainty about eligibility, ensuring they receive updates and invitations to exclusive events.
  • The program aims to foster world-changing companies and seeks to be the first investor for applicants' ventures.