Latest news with #startup
TechCrunch
37 minutes ago
- Automotive
- TechCrunch
VanMoof is back with a new custom e-bike and rebooted repair network
Dutch e-bike startup VanMoof is back two years after bankruptcy with its first model designed under new leadership. And despite past criticism that VanMoof's over-reliance on custom parts led to the company's downfall, the S6 sticks to the brand's signature bespoke design. Today, VanMoof is betting that higher quality custom parts, alongside a more robust servicing network, will allow it to stay true to its design-forward, tech-heavy core, while avoiding the repair and servicing pitfalls that came out of scaling a specialized product too quickly. 'I don't think there's a reason for VanMoof to exist if we're going to use off-the-shelf parts like everyone else,' co-CEO Elliot Wertheimer told TechCrunch backstage at Micromobility Europe in Brussels this week. 'We're here to push design, to have a bike that, if you've never ridden an e-bike in your life, you get on it and it's intuitive. Easy, like an iPhone.' VanMoof previously raised more than $200 million in venture capital and gained a cult following for its premium, minimalist-designed e-bikes equipped with integrated lights, batteries, and motors. VanMoof's unique selling point became its biggest liability. Like many venture-backed hardware businesses, the company grew too quickly to operate sustainably. When bikes broke down, customers were left stranded by an underdeveloped repair network and constrained supply — a consequence of the company's decision to use custom parts instead of off-the-shelf components. The startup filed for bankruptcy in July 2023. A month later it was scooped up by e-scooter maker Lavoie, a business division of McLaren Applied, which itself was formerly a part of McLaren Group that builds parts for the McLaren F1. Wertheimer said with support from McLaren Applied's Formula 1 expertise, VanMoof was able to redesign every component that had caused issues in past models, using performance data to create more reliable custom parts. Many of those parts are co-designed with large manufacturers, which not only assures quality, but also availability of parts should anything happen to VanMoof again, according to Wertheimer. Techcrunch event Save $200+ on your TechCrunch All Stage pass Build smarter. Scale faster. Connect deeper. Join visionaries from Precursor Ventures, NEA, Index Ventures, Underscore VC, and beyond for a day packed with strategies, workshops, and meaningful connections. Save $200+ on your TechCrunch All Stage pass Build smarter. Scale faster. Connect deeper. Join visionaries from Precursor Ventures, NEA, Index Ventures, Underscore VC, and beyond for a day packed with strategies, workshops, and meaningful connections. Boston, MA | REGISTER NOW In certain areas of the business, VanMoof relented to a more industry-standard approach. The company's batteries, for example, are now co-designed and manufactured by Panasonic; VanMoof only supplies the mechanical and software integration. Previously, VanMoof had led on battery design. The real critical piece, though, is an improved support network, according to Wertheimer. 'We fixed the whole business, from unit economics, logistics, and after-sale service,' Wertheimer said. 'We couldn't go out with something new before we set up the infrastructure to do so.' VanMoof has built up a network of 250 repair centers and 130 sales partners, and is focusing sales on markets like Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands. 'We have built a tech suite for [our repair partners] in terms of where they can buy components, a diagnostics app, a proper tracking system that tracks which parts went where, et cetera, to make warranty claims easier for them,' Wertheimer said, adding that VanMoof has set up an online training course for mechanic partners. 'That's super well set up and we're growing the network fast. We're adding 10 stores a week.' VanMoof also hopes to launch in the U.S. by the end of 2025. However, Wertheimer said those plans have stalled as the company waits to see how President Trump's tariffs policy shakes out. The company has already started taking reservations for the S6 in its current active markets, and expects to deliver the first few thousand vehicles in the beginning of August. The VanMoof S6: A new hope The new VanMoof S6 urban e-bike in electric blue. Image Credits:VanMoof Customers were already complaining about slow repair times before VanMoof's brief shutdown in 2023. When it went bankrupt, some customers stranded with broken bikes; others who had put down deposits for new bikes were out hundreds of dollars. Trust in the brand plummeted. While some may never forgive VanMoof for its failures, the new S6 might might just help customers remember why they loved the brand in the first place. I gave the S6 a quick spin this week in Brussels and was delighted to finally understand why so many riders had once gone gaga for VanMoof. It's a sexy-looking bike. The S6 has the iconic VanMoof frame, made even sleeker with no visible welding. It also comes in several matte colors, including an 'electric blue' that looked more like lilac to me, and a pearl mint that Wertheimer says 'changes in the light' from white to green. 'We spent a lot of time on the colors,' he said. The tech features are also impressive. Wertheimer said the company redesigned the electronic suite with help from McLaren Applied to ensure longevity even after the bike has been through its paces in rain, cold, heat, and other conditions. The S6 platform delivers other features that VanMoof fans will recognize, like the Halo Ring which replaces a traditional display and glows different colors to keep riders informed about battery life and speed. The Halo on the S6 is much brighter, addressing complaints from past models of it being too dim in direct sunlight. New tech features include an integrated navigation that pairs the bike to an accompanying mobile app, providing turn-by-turn directions via the Halo lights and sounds. There's also a new sound ecosystem, which includes a soft, but firm, cricket-like sound that a rider can use in place of a bell to alert other road users to their presence. Anti-theft features have come standard on almost all VanMoof e-bike models, but Wertheimer says the S6 is even better. 'We have a new tracking system that's much more accurate,' he said, noting the system relies on cellular tower triangulation, GPS signal, WiFi, and Bluetooth to determine location of the vehicle within 2 meters. Wertheimer also said VanMoof will soon introduce crash detection and other safety features. As for the ride itself, the S6's improved mechanical shifting system comes pre-tuned from the factory and automatically adjusts based on speed, allowing for smoother momentum. It also works in tandem with the bike's four pedal-assist levels. The front-wheel motor, co-developed with 'a major Japanese manufacturer,' contributes to a more natural, intuitive riding experience. And the new suspension seatpost handles bumps in the road well. For a bike that only weighs 51 pounds, it's surprisingly sturdy. And, of course, the iconic boost button adds that extra bit of oomph, making riders feel like they've just ridden over a mushroom in Mario Kart. 'When we took over VanMoof, we inherited great design, and an impressive product ecosystem,' Wertheimer said. 'We spent two years rebuilding our company and brand to reach this launch…We are ready to show the world what we can do again. That's what we see in the S6, our ebike that can deliver on 11 years of promises.'
TechCrunch
39 minutes ago
- Business
- TechCrunch
Boston Side Events lineup at TechCrunch All Stage with Fidelity Private Shares, Women Tech Meetup, Prepare 4 VC, and more
Get ready to amplify your TechCrunch All Stage 2025 experience with the electrifying lineup of Side Events taking Boston by storm during the week of July 13–19. As the countdown to TC All Stage begins, we're thrilled to share our Side Events lineup, where you can foster meaningful connections within the vibrant Boston tech community. Whether you're a seasoned industry pro or a budding entrepreneur, our Side Events promise an unforgettable week filled with networking opportunities, innovation showcases, and engaging conversations. So mark your calendars, secure your spot, and dive into the excitement of TC All Stage Week like never before! Quick Side Event disclaimers: Registering/RSVPing to a Side Event does not grant you access/ticket/badge to the main TC All Stage 2025 conference on July 15. Each event is organized and operated solely by a host (i.e., not TC Media International or any of its affiliates or brands, including TechCrunch). Attendance is 18+ minimum and some venues are 21+ only. Side Events are open to the public unless specified. Please register/RSVP for any of the Side Events you want to attend. July 14 Startup Confessions: A Night of Founder Stories Hosted by: Palm Venture Studios Time: 3:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. ET The startup life can be a lonely journey — this is a night to come together, have some fun, and remember you're not alone in riding the roller coaster of building. Just founders sharing real stories and the lessons they learned the hard way. – Drinks and food – Networking – Real founders, real stories REGISTER HERE Tech Founders Fireside Chat Hosted by: Withum Time: 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. ET Kick off TechCrunch Boston with Withum, UBS and a dynamic group of founders for a fast-paced, 30-minute fireside chat for tech founders. We'll cover what matters most right now, from an economic update to breaking down QSBS stock, equity structures, and insights from the proposed One Big Beautiful Bill. You'll also hear directly from startup founders as they share lessons learned, growth strategies, and how they're building in today's evolving landscape. Join us for candid conversation, real takeaways, and meaningful connections with fellow tech entrepreneurs in a high-energy, founder-first setting. Start your TechCrunch Boston experience with an impactful fireside chat covering today's economic climate, QSBS, equity insights, and real-world advice from startup leaders. REGISTER HERE Techcrunch event Save $200+ on your TechCrunch All Stage pass Build smarter. Scale faster. Connect deeper. Join visionaries from Precursor Ventures, NEA, Index Ventures, Underscore VC, and beyond for a day packed with strategies, workshops, and meaningful connections. Save $200+ on your TechCrunch All Stage pass Build smarter. Scale faster. Connect deeper. Join visionaries from Precursor Ventures, NEA, Index Ventures, Underscore VC, and beyond for a day packed with strategies, workshops, and meaningful connections. Boston, MA | REGISTER NOW July 15 South Asian Collective Hosted by: American South Asian Network (ASAN) Time: 5:15 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. ET Join us for an engaging evening of networking, insightful discussions, and cultural celebration. Connect with South Asian entrepreneurs, creatives, and professionals, and explore the vibrant contributions of the South Asian community across various industries. More details on our registration page! REGISTER HERE Women Tech Meetup: Raising on Your Terms Hosted by: Women Tech Meetup, Techstars, Puzzle, and Venture Lane Time: 5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. ET Boston! Calling all women in tech, allies, friends, and partners! Join our Women Tech Meetup: Raising on Your Terms, hosted by Techstars and Venture Lane, as an official Side Event of TechCrunch All Stage. Enjoy complimentary drinks and snacks, engaging conversations, networking, and a beautiful venue 🌟 Additionally, we will host a panel discussion on fundraising, venture capital, and the challenges that female founders face on their journey to building successful companies, along with strategies to overcome them. Agenda listed on our registration page. REGISTER HERE July 16 Founders Breakfast: Boston Edition Hosted by: Puzzle and Fidelity Private Shares Time: 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. ET Come hungry. Leave inspired. Building a startup is a wild ride — so let's hit pause and and connect over great food and even better company 🍽️☕ Join us for our special breakfast as a Side Event of TechCrunch All Stage, designed for founders navigating the highs and lows of scaling, fundraising, and everything in between. Co-hosted by Puzzle and Fidelity Private Shares. Swap lessons learned and insider tips, biggest wins and toughest challenges, as well as fresh perspectives with fellow founders who truly get it. REGISTER HERE Breakthrough Summit: Prepare 4 VC Graduation & Showcase Hosted by: Prepare 4 VC Time: 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. ET The Breakthrough Summit is the grand finale of the Prepare 4 VC Breakthrough Program — a 10-week founder acceleration journey that pushes beyond theory into transformative action. This isn't a demo day. This is a celebration of resilience, growth, and traction. You're invited to witness 10 bold, ambitious founding teams as they take the stage to share: – Their pitch-ready ventures. – Personal breakthrough moments. – Traction gained through the program. – The next big leaps they're preparing for. All framed by the powerful community of mentors, investors, and partners who made it possible. REGISTER HERE Product Design Happy Hour Hosted by: Onshape by PTC Time: 5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. ET Join us for our next Happy Hour event with early-stage founders, top investors, and engineers shaping the future of product design. Hear from Jon Hirschtick and John McEleney, co-founders of SolidWorks and Onshape, in a panel session on building, scaling, and fundraising for venture-backed startups. Plus, hear firsthand from AWS on how to build scalable, secure infrastructure for your startup. Whether you're in Boston for TechCrunch All Stage or building your breakthrough product, you won't want to miss this! REGISTER HERE Æthos AI Salon Hosted by: Æthos Foundation Time: 5:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. ET Join our ecosystem for an evening of guiding society towards AI that truly serve humanity, and for drinks. An entrepreneur, a professor, and a public servant walk into a bar… Come see whether they walk out with a new understanding of what makes AI responsible. Æthos has built AI startup hubs in Boston and Berlin over the past year around a mission to construct strong practical norms for ethical AI. We bring together start ups with leaders from government, big tech, academia, and investment to build these norms. The usual place, unusual people: the best minds Boston has to offer on July 16th. REGISTER HERE Scaling Teams Effectively : Interactive Panel Discussion x Networking Hosted by: Remotesome and Deel Time: 5:30 p.m. – 9:30 p.m. ET Unlock the secrets to building high-performing teams and scaling your startup with confidence. Join us for Scaling Teams Efficiently — an exclusive event bringing together leaders from top venture capital firms and growth-stage startups to share their unfiltered experiences on what truly drives success after funding rounds. You can find more info on expectations, agenda, etc., on our registration page. REGISTER HERE July 17 Women in Business — Networked for Growth: Female Founders Harnessing Campus Connections Hosted by: Northeastern University College of Arts, Media and Design Time: 4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. ET Please join us for this engaging panel discussion with local thought leaders about best practices to engage with universities to empower business growth. After the panel, there will be an opportunity to network with fellow founders, university representatives, and students. Please come prepared for a lively discussion with an open mind and lots of questions! REGISTER HERE
Bloomberg
2 hours ago
- Business
- Bloomberg
German Startup Neura Robotics Eyes Up to €1 Billion Fundraising
German startup Neura Robotics is targeting to raise as much as €1 billion ($1.2 billion) in new funding as the company prepares to debut a humanoid robot, according to people familiar with the matter. Neura Robotics has started approaching potential investors, the people said, asking not to be identified because the information is private.
Forbes
3 hours ago
- Business
- Forbes
Beyond Perks—Why Conscious Culture Is A Scalable Business Strategy
Greg Dolan, CEO, Keen Decision Systems. In today's startup landscape, culture often gets reduced to surface-level perks: remote work options, wellness stipends and quarterly offsites. While those things have their place, they're not culture. They're benefits. And when the pressure's on, those perks won't protect your company from internal dysfunction or a surge of people leaving for greener pastures. When everyone is offering the same thing, how can you differentiate yourself? We believe real culture isn't what happens on the surface. Rather, it's the system under the surface. It's the logic, behaviors, rituals and decisions that persist, especially when things get hard. Culture is how your company responds to tension, change, conflict and opportunity. And it's either intentional or accidental. For example, during the COVID-19 pandemic, did your team band together and rally around a set of shared values or did your organization splinter and grow apart? Most companies don't consciously design culture. They inherit it, or worse, they drift into it. When we founded Keen in 2010, we decided that culture would not be an afterthought. Instead, it would be the operating system, informing everything we do. Smart organizations make culture a bedrock principle from the start. We codified our values from day one and tied them to how we hire, promote, give feedback and reward. In addition, we implemented a four-day workweek before it was cool. The goal was not to be trendy, but because we believe performance and rest are partners, not opposites. Startups are notoriously tough on people, so by valuing your employees, you can ensure that they're able to thrive while also building a strong organization. Additionally, we built a performance development system rooted in coaching, feedback and quarterly OKRs, instead of annual reviews that no one uses and where feedback is unclear. We separated accountability from fear, clarity from micromanagement and growth from burnout. We didn't add culture. We architected it and we're better as an organization because of it. The lie corporate America has told for too long is that culture is soft. Or secondary. Or HR's job. But we believe that culture is strategy, infrastructure and compounding value. If you want to build something that lasts, culture has to scale with your business model. You can't scale trust, performance and autonomy if your systems are still managing appearances instead of outcomes. As a result of our culture focus, we've experienced faster onboarding because people know who we are. Additionally, there's a greater alignment among teams because decisions are values-aligned and we've experienced lower churn because the workplace actually works for people. We've also created more resilient teams because they've been built in truth, not theater. In a world where startups are pressured to grow at all costs, the companies that build with intention and humanity on a strong cultural spine will likely outperform in the long term. They'll also attract the best people, retain their customers and scale sustainably. By putting culture at the forefront, you can create an organization that people want to work for. Beyond that, by practicing a culture rooted in self-awareness, trust and individual accountability, people can thrive both personally and professionally. Founders have an unfair advantage. You don't have 100 years of dysfunction to undo. You can design your operating system from day one. The question is: will you? Forbes Business Council is the foremost growth and networking organization for business owners and leaders. Do I qualify?
Entrepreneur
8 hours ago
- Business
- Entrepreneur
Less Talk, More Action
Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own. You're reading Entrepreneur United Kingdom, an international franchise of Entrepreneur Media. By the time most companies have finished their Monday stand-ups, Rebecca Kelly is already shipping product. It's 2025, and the founder and CEO of VenueScanner, a London-based platform that helps people discover and book venues for events, meetings, and experiences across the UK, has traded bloated meeting schedules for real-time execution - and it's working. "This year, our strength lies in focus and pace," she says. "We've tightened our team structure, which has enabled us to scale sales more efficiently and bring new products to market faster than ever. The way we now operate - where ideas move directly from founder conversations to engineering sprints - is something that wouldn't have been possible a year ago." VenueScanner's transformation is a story of intentional subtraction. What's gone: unnecessary meetings, outdated processes, the myth of arriving at some perfect startup equilibrium. What's replaced it: speed, alignment, and a belief that less noise means more signal. "We've drastically cut down on meetings. It sounds small, but it's been transformational. By analysing the actual output of meetings, we realised how much time was being spent talking rather than building." Even Friday afternoons have been reimagined - no longer for admin catch-up or quiet quitting, but for experimentation and AI deep dives. "It's an investment in our people that's already paying off," Kelly explains. "The team's technical skills and creative thinking have massively improved, and it's fueling faster experimentation." Her clarity is refreshing in a sector still addicted to hype. Rather than aiming for elusive finish lines, Kelly has embraced a founder truth that often goes unspoken: "I used to believe there was a point where you 'get there.' But that's just not how startups work. The trick isn't reaching the end, it's staying in the game long enough - and staying grounded - to build something that lasts." In an era of AI acceleration and capital constraint, she believes the overlooked edge for UK founders is not vision, but execution. "We are brilliant at getting things done," she says, "and we do it with fewer resources and more constraints. That's an advantage in 2025." Kelly sees the next decade as a make-or-break moment for Britain's start-up ecosystem. Her vision? A truly borderless hub that rivals global tech capitals - not just with lifestyle perks, but with smarter infrastructure and policy. "If we want world-changing companies to emerge from the UK," she says, "we need to create an ecosystem that supports relentless innovation, rewards risk, and builds community around ambitious thinking." At VenueScanner, that future is already being prototyped - not through flashy headlines, but in how a small team moves faster, thinks deeper, and acts with conviction. A startup culture not just optimised for scale, but for staying power.
