Experts Share: What To Consider When Running A Tech Startup

The UK is questioning how Apple and Google run their mobile web browsers and app ecosystems. The Competition and Markets Authority has flagged their practices, claiming they block competition and stop fresh ideas from reaching users.

According to the CMA’s report, Apple’s App Store rules make it difficult for developers to create apps with features like faster webpage loading. Progressive web apps, which run through browsers rather than being downloaded from app stores, could allow smaller developers to compete more effectively. But Apple’s restrictions prevent these apps from fully functioning on iOS devices.

The CMA also pointed to an agreement between Apple and Google, where Google pays to be the default search engine on iPhones. This arrangement leaves little motivation for either company to improve their browsers or compete on performance. Consumers may ultimately lose out due to fewer choices and slower advancements.

 

How Could New UK Laws Change Things?

 

The Digital Markets, Competition and Consumers Act gives regulators more power to deal with unfair behaviour in digital markets. Under this law, companies like Apple and Google could be designated as holding “Strategic Market Status.” This would need them to meet specific rules designed to create fairer conditions for developers and consumers.

For Apple and Google, this might mean making their systems more open, allowing smaller developers to bring new features and apps to market without unnecessary restrictions. These changes could encourage more innovation and give consumers access to better technology.

What the UK is doing is similar to what the European Union’s laws are in targeting dominant companies to encourage healthier competition and lessen the amount of aspects that held smaller businesses back.

 

How Are Apple And Google Responding?

 

Apple disagrees with the CMA’s findings, arguing that stricter rules could put user privacy and security at risk. The company also claims it already operates in a competitive environment and values the trust of its users.

Google has stated that its Android system supports choice and affordability for consumers. Both companies have said they are willing to engage with regulators but maintain that their practices benefit users and developers alike.

A final decision from the CMA is expected in March 2025, with Apple and Google having until December to respond to the provisional findings.

If the CMA’s recommendations are enforced, users could see more choices and better-performing apps and browsers. Progressive web apps might bring new features without the need for traditional app stores, potentially saving users money and time.

 

How You Can Run Your Tech Starup

 

With all this being said, it might be worth looking at how smaller players in the tech industry can do what they can to make sure they are running a successful tech company. Experts have shared their advice, specifically for startup owners…

 

Our Experts:

 

• Aïssa Laroussi, Founder and CEO, Enky
• Mike Whitmire, CEO, FloQast
• Dr. Ian Campbell, CEO and Co-founder, Breathe Battery Technologies
• Ben Rieder, Co-founder and CEO, Levenue
• Naomi Owusu, CEO and Co-founder, Tickaroo
• Andrei Danescu, CEO and Co-founder, Dexory
• Leo Labeis, CEO, REGnosys

 

Aïssa Laroussi, Founder and CEO, Enky

 

 

“Ambitious creators of innovative technologies who can demonstrate that their business models are scalable and impactful will always attract the best talent and investors. Investors often take calculated risks, supporting visionary leaders with transformative ideas, even if the financial path isn’t immediately clear.

“Always start with something that excites you: something you feel passionate about. Focus on sectors you understand. If you aren’t passionate about your idea, then you can’t expect anyone else to be excited about the business proposition! And it’s important as that drive will help you face and overcome challenging times which are inherently part of the growing pains of a start-up.

“Take a ‘hands-on’ approach in the early days, exploit any relevant networks with a view to accelerating and driving growth in the business.

“Identify both the potential risk and reward and remain patient through the volatile early stages of company development. If you can satisfy both requirements, on a financial basis and a more personal, psychological one, then take it to the next stage.

“It takes time. And some ventures may fizzle out, equally, some may have a lumpy start but if you have a gut feeling it will come good, stick at it. But there may come a point at which, as one Chairman told me once, ‘Don’t throw good money after bad’. You have to learn when to cut your losses and that’s why you need to surround yourself with more seasoned entrepreneurs with experience – we are back to networking again, it’s vital in order to build and nurture professional relationships.

“Rome wasn’t built in a day. Learn from your mistakes, all experiences are valuable you can equally learn something valuable from feeling you’ve made a mistake, as well as enjoying your successes.”
 

 

Mike Whitmire, CEO, FloQast

 

 

“Surround Yourself With Experts. It’s better to surround yourself with experts that bring a range of perspectives and knowledge to the table, rather than attempting to do all the work yourself, which might not end well.

“Find A Good Co-Founder Mix. A good co-founder mix strikes the right balance between challenging each other to push the boundaries and

“Hire People Smarter Than You — And Trust Them. It can be hard taking your hands off every aspect of the business. But ultimately, you need to be able to focus on the company’s direction, and that’s why you need to hire experts in their fields and trust them to get their jobs done.

“Have A Big Goal from Day One. Being clear on your big goal from day one is super important for company alignment. It helps curate a team with intention by choosing people who share your purpose.

“Transparency Is Key. Startups should consider how work culture will impact employees. A good leader will make sure everyone involved understands what you’re doing and why, and transparent communication is the way to achieve this.”

 

Dr Ian Campbell, CEO and Co-founder, Breathe Battery Technologies

 

 

“Focus on developing an insanely attractive product & delighting customers above all else. These are the pre-requisites, and everything else (hiring brilliant talent, financing the business, marketing & more) follows from that instil a company culture of celebrating revenue & align incentive structures around it. All other forms of financing are temporary and are a means to revenue.

“Ruthlessly assess and clearly communicate what aspects of the business need to be world-class vs. what aspects need to be unique. The world-class aspects prevent customers saying “no”, while the unique aspects are the reasons they will say “yes”.”

 

Ben Rieder, Co-founder and CEO, Levenue

 

 

“For tech startups, the looming possibility of a recession remains a critical factor so one key thing to consider will be securing financing ahead of any potential downturn. By accessing capital proactively, entrepreneurs can build the financial buffer needed to weather economic uncertainty, invest in strategic opportunities, and maintain flexibility in challenging times.

“My advice for tech startups and entrepreneurs is to adopt blended funding strategies and explore alternative financing options – crowdfunding, grants, venture debt, and revenue-based financing among them.

“For years, equity raising was the default choice for fueling growth, but the landscape has shifted significantly in the past two years. As equity funding is now often more challenging, time-intensive, and less financially favourable for founders and shareholders alike, tech founders should ensure they access flexible funding tailored to their needs.

“For instance, our platform, Levenue, enables companies with recurring revenues to access quick and cost-efficient financing directly from institutional investors. This model not only provides founders with fast, non-dilutive funding, but also ensures that they secure financing at market value, empowering them to retain control of their businesses.”

 

Naomi Owusu, CEO and Co-founder, Tickaroo

 

 

“Running a tech startup is both thrilling and demanding, but the right mindset is essential to reaping the rewards.
Passion should be your guiding force. It fuels resilience and keeps you moving beyond the inevitable hurdles. Surround yourself with a strong support network of friends, family, colleagues or mentors who believe in your vision and can help you to stay motivated in the face of scepticism and naysayers. Reflect on successes and celebrate every win, big or small, to maintain positivity and momentum.

“Remember that failure is an inherent part of the business building process. Learn from mistakes and embrace them as a stepping stone to growth. Pivoting isn’t a setback—it’s a strategic move.

“Tech entrepreneurs are often tempted to build everything from scratch, but by leverage existing tools for accounting, project management and other operational needs you can streamline operations and focus on core business objectives.

“Lastly, don’t shy away from bold, “too crazy” ideas. Innovation often thrives on risks. Above all, remain flexible, adaptable, and committed to learning, as these traits are the foundation of long-term success.”

 

Andrei Danescu, CEO & Co-Founder, Dexory

 

 

“Building a technology business from the ground up is hard and challenging but it’s extremely rewarding. Many underestimate the effort and dedication that goes into these companies – as a founder, making sacrifices comes with the territory, however is necessary to achieving your goals.”

“To be successful, tech businesses must offer something new, unique and transformative. This is the key for success and growth. When it comes to commercialising deep-tech products and services, you can’t just ask people what they want, you instead have to provide them with solutions that solve their biggest problems and future-proof their technology investments to take them to the next level. In a competitive landscape standing out will lead to success.”

 

Leo Labeis, CEO,  REGnosys

 

 

“Running a tech startup is as much about mindset as it is about execution. At REGnosys, we operate under four guiding principles that keep us focused:

“Do what’s right – Startups often tackle complex problems. For us, it’s about solving acute industry pain points while staying true to an ethos of integrity. Treating clients, colleagues and stakeholders with fairness and respect is non-negotiable.

“Everyone’s a leader – In a high-trust environment like ours, responsibility and decision-making aren’t bound by seniority. The best ideas win, fostering innovation and accountability at all levels.

“Less is more – Whether it’s in product design, processes, or communication, clarity helps us cut through complexity and deliver value.

“Right tool, right job – No startup can excel at everything. By staying laser-focused on our strengths and partnering where necessary, we maximise our impact and efficiency.

“For any tech founder, identifying and then staying aligned with your core principles is the key to build not just a great product but a resilient, high-performing team culture.”