As a budding startup, we at Crelora are always eager to learn, grow, and connect with others navigating the entrepreneurial landscape. When we had the opportunity to attend the EXIST Start-up Seminar in Munich on October 21 and 22, 2024, we knew it was a chance to deepen our understanding of effective teamwork and expand our network.
Organized by the PerformPartner team and funded by the EXIST program, the seminar brought together eight startups from various industries. Over 1.5 days, we engaged in activities that challenged us to reflect on our team dynamics, share our experiences, and gain new perspectives.
Day 1: Breaking the Ice and Building Connections
The first day was all about getting to know each other. Each team introduced their ideas, backgrounds, and the challenges they faced. As fate would have it, we were up first. Being the only team of two in a room full of larger teams (some with up to five members), and with one of us not fluent in German at all, we felt a bit like the underdogs. But perhaps that worked in our favor—it certainly made us memorable!
We shared our mission at Crelora, our passion for empowering small content creators, and candidly discussed the hurdles we’ve encountered. The openness set a welcoming tone, and we appreciated how other teams reciprocated with their own stories.
The Importance of “The Team”
Following the introductions, a presentation highlighted “The Team” as a critical factor in startup success. It reinforced something we knew but hadn’t fully explored: that strong team dynamics are essential for navigating the unpredictable journey of a startup.
An Evening of Cultural Flavors and Conversations
That evening, we gathered at a local co-working space for dinner. The organizers treated us to delicious Arabic finger foods—a delightful surprise that added a warm, communal feel to the night. Over plates of hummus and falafel, we mingled with fellow entrepreneurs, exchanging stories about our respective journeys and future aspirations.
It was inspiring to hear about the diverse projects underway—from sustainable energy solutions to innovative healthcare technologies. Despite our different paths, there was a shared sense of purpose and determination that connected us all.
Day 2: Engaging Activities and Deep Dives into Teamwork
The second day kicked off with an interactive session that resembled a job fair. Each startup set up a small stand with a clipboard, showcasing what we do. It was a refreshing change from formal presentations, allowing for more personal interactions. We approached other teams, and they visited us, leading to spontaneous and engaging conversations.
Exploring Team Collaboration
The heart of the seminar lay in the sessions focused on team collaboration. As a duo, we’ve always prided ourselves on open communication. With just two of us, it’s hard to avoid addressing issues directly! However, the exercises revealed that there were topics we hadn’t thoroughly discussed—particularly our visions for the future.
Discussing the Future
One activity involved a questionnaire that prompted us to reflect on our motivations, values, and where we saw the company in the coming years. Sharing our answers was enlightening. We realized that while we were aligned on many fronts, there were nuances in our individual aspirations that hadn’t been fully articulated.
Understanding each other’s personal goals helped us appreciate our partnership even more. It reinforced the importance of regularly checking in about our long-term objectives to ensure we’re rowing in the same direction.
Open Dialogue with Peers
Another impactful session had us openly discussing the strengths and areas for improvement in our team in front of another startup team. Initially, it felt a bit uncomfortable airing our “dirty laundry” to strangers. But the mutual exchange created a safe space where both teams could candidly share challenges and offer constructive feedback.
Hearing about the hurdles other teams faced—and how they approached solving them—was incredibly valuable. It reminded us that we’re not alone in this journey, and that every team, regardless of size, encounters obstacles.
Final Thoughts
Attending the EXIST Start-up Seminar was a worthwhile experience that allowed us to step back from the daily grind and focus on strengthening our team from within. It provided practical tools and insights that we’ll carry forward as we continue to grow Crelora.
We’re grateful to the PerformPartner team for organizing the event and to the EXIST program for supporting startups like ours. The seminar reinforced that while the startup journey can be challenging, it’s also filled with opportunities for learning, connection, and growth.
With a clearer picture of our team dynamics and a strengthened partnership, we’re excited about what the future holds. We’re more committed than ever to our mission of empowering small content creators and look forward to implementing the strategies and insights gained from the seminar.
Stay Connected
We’re always eager to connect with like-minded individuals. Whether you’re a content creator, a fellow entrepreneur, or someone interested in our journey, feel free to reach out. Let’s continue to learn from and support each other in this exciting venture!