Episode Summary: 

In this episode of the BetterTech podcast on Entrepreneurship Landscape and digital transformation, Umair Javed talks with Risto Siilasmaa, founder and chairman of WithSecure, known for his leadership at Nokia and F-Secure. Risto shares stories about starting his own company and navigating challenges during the tech bubble. He gives tips on what makes a startup investable, emphasizing the importance of having a strong team. He discusses his role in transforming Nokia and how to choose effective board members. Risto also talks about his interest in AI and his observations on the startup investment scene post-COVID. Additionally, he shares his strategy for spotting potential in startups and his approach to nurturing innovation within large corporations. Risto’s insights provide a roadmap for both emerging entrepreneurs and seasoned executives.

Show Notes:

1. Risto recounts starting F-Secure, growing a tech company without external funding to an IPO.
2. He reflects on overcoming challenges during the tech bubble as CEO, with strategic changes and board support.
3. Risto discusses his investment strategy, emphasizing the importance of team dynamics over the initial idea for spotting potential unicorns.
4. He describes his role in transforming Nokia during its crisis, implementing drastic measures for company survival.
5. Risto touches on his current focus, investing in startups utilizing AI and quantum computing, post-COVID investment strategies, and supporting technological innovation.

This episode is hosted by Umair Khan, Host, BetterTech