June 2024 – Market Makers TV, hosted by Gene Swank.

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Gene Swank, CEO of startup accelerator Propellant Labs, recently interviewed Wade Eyerly, General Partner at Buko Ventures and an investor in Propellant Labs, on Market Makers TV. Wade shared his insights into Buko’s investment strategy and explained their focus on emerging markets.

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Market Makers TV, a new program airing on FOX television in the U.S., features startup leaders who are making a difference in the world, adding value to people’s lives, and disrupting the status quo. You can watch the full interview here.

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During the interview, Wade emphasized Buko Ventures' unique approach to investing in regions with high mobile penetration and access to electricity but low banking and credit card adoption rates. He explained that these markets, characterized by significant demographic trends and expanding economies, present unique opportunities to bring the next four billion people online for the first time. According to Wade, this focus on emerging markets aligns perfectly with Buko Ventures' mission to empower founders and drive innovation in developing economies.

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Wade described Buko's investment thesis as identifying "proven Western models with a local twist." He elaborated by stating that investing in these regions feels like "traveling back in time," where now-successful models are adapted to local contexts and introduced to the market for the first time. He mentioned that this strategy allows Buko Ventures to leverage existing knowledge while fostering creativity and adaptability among local entrepreneurs.

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One of the key points Wade highlighted was the importance of the founder's background and experience. He believes that a strong track record of getting things done and finding solutions is crucial. Wade explained that Buko Ventures places a significant emphasis on building trust with founders, ensuring they have the necessary skills and resilience to navigate the challenges of growing a startup. This trust is not just about believing in their vision but also about providing the support and resources they need to succeed.

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Wade also shared some success stories from Buko's portfolio, illustrating how their approach has yielded positive results. He talked about companies that have successfully adapted Western business models to local markets, creating innovative solutions that address specific regional needs. These examples underscored Buko Ventures' commitment to fostering sustainable growth and long-term success in emerging markets.

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Additionally, Wade discussed the broader implications of their investment strategy. He pointed out that by empowering local founders, Buko Ventures is contributing to the economic development of these regions. This not only benefits the individual companies but also has a ripple effect on the local economy, creating jobs and improving the quality of life for many people.

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Wade’s insights shed light on Buko Ventures' unique approach to investing in emerging markets. By focusing on empowering founders and leveraging proven models, Buko Ventures aims to drive innovation and growth in these dynamic economies. This strategic vision is not only about financial returns but also about making a meaningful impact on the world.

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