Latest news with #Drapers
Time of India
7 days ago
- Business
- Time of India
Meet The Drapers Season 7: The Future of Entrepreneurship Unfolds in Silicon Valley
Three generations of Drapers unite to find startups ready to reshape industries and win up to $1 million in funding. Silicon Valley's legendary investor Tim Draper, famed for early bets on Tesla, SpaceX, and Twitch, hosted the gripping Season 7 finale of Meet the Drapers at Draper University. Joined by his father Bill Draper, a pioneer in venture capital, and son Adam Draper, founder of Boost VC, the Draper family sought entrepreneurs who combined vision, grit, and technical prowess. THE FINALISTS WITH GAME-CHANGING VISIONS Reaction Dynamics aims to disrupt satellite launches with a patented hybrid propulsion system using sustainable fuels. Their technology enables rapid, stockpiled satellite deployments, a breakthrough compared to traditional cryogenic methods. Judges praised their technical depth and ambitious vision. Myco brings innovation to media with a decentralized platform rewarding viewers and directly funding creators. Growing rapidly with 22 million users, Myco challenges traditional advertising models, although judges remained cautious about competitive threats. CrossCurve, founded by Faraj Abutalibov, addresses the fragmented liquidity in decentralized finance with a powerful cross-chain protocol. Positioned to institutionalize DeFi, the startup earned praise for both technical depth and commercial ambition — and was seen as a potential decacorn by the jury. SURVIVAL OF THE FITTEST Beyond pitches, entrepreneurs proved their leadership and composure through survival challenges—ranging from paintball missions to ice plunges—reflecting the toughness required in startup life. SPOTLIGHT ON SOCIAL IMPACT: WEWALK Inspired by the everyday challenges of visual impairment, WeWalk developed a smart cane equipped with obstacle detection, haptic and audio alerts, and navigation tools. With 7,000 users in 25 countries and a $250 billion market opportunity, WeWalk strives to set a new global standard in mobility aids. INNOVATION IN HEALTH AND FINANCE BasePair simplifies genomic data analysis, accelerating advances in cancer research and IVF success rates through no-code software used by top life sciences firms. Meanwhile, Bashir's AI-powered wealth management platform aims to democratize finance with a scalable, inclusive approach. Investbanq, led by Olzhas Bashir, is using AI to democratize wealth management, offering intelligent, scalable investing tools tailored for emerging market users. Judges noted its potential to broaden financial access across underserved regions. CRYPTO SECURITY AND DECENTRALIZED FINANCE Captain Failsafe offers AI-driven crypto security designed to prevent hacks like the recent $1.5 billion Bybit breach. Their quick setup and proactive defense model impressed the judges, despite tough competition in blockchain security. THE FINAL DECISION After high-stakes deliberation, the Drapers awarded three $1 million investments to: • Reaction Dynamics • Myco • WeWalk Additionally, Investbanq secured a $500,000 commitment, while CrossCurve was awarded $250,000 — affirming the judges' belief in its foundational role in DeFi's future. After intense deliberation, the Drapers faced a difficult choice. Bill Draper praised all finalists, while Adam Draper focused on WeWalk and Reaction Dynamics for their market potential and innovation. This finale highlighted the blend of cutting-edge technology and resilience fueling the future of entrepreneurship. Meet the Drapers invites viewers worldwide to follow the journey of these bold founders as they compete for funding and the chance to transform their industries.
Fashion United
29-04-2025
- Business
- Fashion United
Jigsaw makes new leadership hires
British retailer Jigsaw has announced a slew of new appointments across its business as it continues on a path of UK and international expansion. Among the new faces is that of Tikki Godley, who has been named the company's new managing director, according to Drapers, which initially reported the news. Godley, who will take up her new role immediately, joins Jigsaw from Never Fully Dressed, where she had served as chief operating officer after previously being with Ted Baker for more than 20 years. Richard Grainger, River Island's former co-managing director, meanwhile, has been appointed as Jigsaw's sourcing and business development director. His role change falls alongside the further appointment of Jordan Eaglestone as digital director, a role he will take up from May 12. Eaglestone most recently served as head of e-commerce and marketing at Hawes & Curtis. The news was confirmed to Drapers by Jigsaw, which told the publication: 'This is a pivotal moment for Jigsaw. With fresh investment, a revitalised leadership team, and a clear strategic vision, we are poised to build on our heritage and drive the brand forward, both in the UK and internationally. 'We see huge opportunity for growth across new markets, enhanced digital platforms, and an expanded product offering, while continuing to deliver the timeless quality and craftsmanship our customers expect.' Earlier this month, Jigsaw secured five million pounds in funding from Carphone Warehouse co-founder, David Ross. The investment is to be targeted towards establishing a more resilient long-term financial foundation.
