At Activate, we know that breakthrough science alone isn’t enough to create lasting impact; it also takes a shift in mindset. For scientists and engineers considering startups as a path to scale their ideas, developing a science entrepreneur mindset is just as critical as the skills and knowledge you need. The mindsets we cultivate at Activate and focus on in our Fellowship program help researchers step confidently into the role of founder, translating deep tech innovation into real-world solutions. We hope they’ll help you imagine what this journey could look like for you.
Know Thyself
It's essential to understand my own values and motivations so that I can lead others with authenticity.
Why it matters: Individuals with this mindset prioritize understanding their own motivations and identity, regularly engaging in honest self-reflection, both independently and with peers. They can take time for themselves, away from work, to engage in reflection. They reference their company's core values when making business or leadership decisions.
“Every day you are asked to make decisions, big and small, that there is no right answer for and for which there will be no accountability (because you are in charge). I've found it really important to have thought through what is important to me and who I want to be as a leader in advance to be able to make those decisions quickly and consistently.”
- Activate Fellow
