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Startup ecosystems can be fragmented, and hidden to newcomers, which is detrimental for local startups and community growth. The Startup Ecosystem Canvas, from the Founder Institute, provides entrepreneurs with a sequential list of resources for every stage of their startup journey, while also outlining a framework for communities to map their ecosystem.

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Main Components

The Startup Ecosystem Canvas Template represents a somewhat sequential view of a startup ecosystem. It was inspired by Startup Communities, and refined using the Founder Institute's experience launching companies in over 180 cities worldwide. The Startup Ecosystem Canvas is a perpetual work in progress, and is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial 4.0 International License. To read the long story behind its creation, see this blog post.

Download the Startup Ecosystem Canvas Template here.

1. The Stages

There is no one right way to build a technology company, but for the sake of simplicity we have outlined a basic, common framework.

Idea Stage

This is where new entrepreneurs get inspired, learn best practices, develop skills, validate ideas, and begin to build their team and product.

Launch Stage

In this stage, entrepreneurs establish and formalize the company, develop the product, get feedback from customers, and prepare for the next step.

Growth Stage

Here, a startup proves their utility, receives recognition, and scales up. This usually requires funding, angels, VCs, and ways to connect them to startups.

2. The Supporters

To facilitate the steps, every ecosystem needs strong supporters.

Evangelists

Successful entrepreneurs must be the guiding forces of any startup ecosystem, especially in the Idea-Stage.

Government

Public organizations can play an important role by facilitating and supporting the community in the Launch-Stage.

Talent

You can't grow without talent, and both universities and large technical employers attract and cultivate the local talent pool.

3. The End Product: Success Stories

It takes time, but the product of a strong ecosystem is startup success. The leaders of these companies should be startup evangelists, as well.

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Establish yourself as a startup leader in your city by helping to create a new Startup Ecosystem Canvas.

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