Fiction
Mortuary
When the dead watch, escape is no longer an option. A horror short story.
Mari Luukkainen
Pre-seed VC investor, growth operator, startup growth advisor, and keynote speaker. On this site, I share learnings about startup growth.
Startups
Why startups should focus on industry standard traction numbers in their data room
Why making your numbers easy to digest makes sense.
Personal
Toilets and THC in the storage biz
Tales from the boring businesses: the unexpected twists in the world of storage unit rentals.
Personal
Queer eye for the VC guy (or gal): Why I'm joining an LGBTQ+ fund
This isn't just an impact decision; it's a strategic money decision for the future.
Herizon
My nonprofit is the startup I always dreamed of
"Mari, when will you start your own startup?" Here it is, finally.
Startups
Rise of SAFE monsters
It seems that in today’s opportunistic market, the concept of a clean cap table is becoming a thing of the past. Here's tips how to deal with it.
Startups
What investors really mean by "traction"
It's like being asked to explain the meaning of life in a single breath.
Startups
The quality obsession every Finnish B2C startup needs
In the fiercely competitive world of B2C startups, quality isn't just a feature.
Growth
The high achiever's paradox: Navigating growth hacking's stop-and-go process
How high achievers can master growth hacking by integrating strategic pauses for reflection and documentation, ensuring efficient progress and team synergy.
Startups
When gaming gurus go startup: a fresh play in Finland's ecosystem
Exploring the impact of gaming industry veterans on the Finnish startup ecosystem, highlighting their unique approach to creativity, iteration, and prototyping in driving innovation.
Personal
My last 5 investments and why they got my attention
The reasons behind my investment in five unique startups over the past year.
Startups
I checked 100 AI startups last week, here's the VC's candid take
Explore a VC's take on evaluating AI startups.
Startups
Why set up Growth Operations in early-stage startups?
Discover the importance of Growth Operations in startups for scalable, informed, and sustainable foundations, preparing businesses for future success.
Startups
Sustainability startups need a solid financial plan
The startups that will stand out to VCs and make a lasting impact are those that pair their environmental mission with a clear, solid plan for profitability.
Random
What companions of Baldur's Gate 3 can teach you about growth hacking
What each Baldur's Gate 3 companion can teach us about mastering the art of business growth.
Marketing
Maximizing growth through online communities: strategies for startups
By engaging genuinely, providing value, and building relationships, startups can leverage these communities for not only growth but also for invaluable insights and lasting brand loyalty.
Startups
The reality check for aspiring founders: is the VC route right for you?
How big do you want your venture to be, and is the VC-funded path the right one for you?
Marketing
My €0 SEO strategy: Proven success since 1998
This €0 SEO strategy shows that with the right approach and a focus on content, even startups can gain significant market traction without financial investment.
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