Start-ups Need to Focus on Creating Value Before Expanding

 

When the pandemic hit, many businesses were told to shut their doors, some of which never reopened them. Though unfortunate for many, others had different outcomes. Founder and CEO at Volta Energy, Dr. Denis Kouroussis, sits down with Greg Crumpton and Tyler Kern to highlight his upbringing, company, and the effects of the pandemic.

After building a heavy background in tech and engineering, including a stint in developing the components of the Motorola Razr and tech investment, Dr. Kouroussis founded and developed Volta Energy, a technology company aimed at making electronic systems safe and efficient.

Coming from a Greek immigrant family, Dr. Kouroussis learned to work hard and, from this, that a successful startup must be aimed at creating the “ultimate customer value.”

Volta Energy reflects this belief, while also understanding the impact the topic of energy as a Canada-based company has, “energy has always been a big thing in Canada,” said Dr. Kouroussis. With lots of projects happening all over, “The challenge has always been if you try to go into a big market as a small startup you can spend a lot of cycles trying to penetrate that market unsuccessfully.”

Instead of doing this, Dr. Kouroussis said he has learned as an entrepreneur to, “focus on something small that can create value and expand on that.”

The pandemic highlighted this notion. While others shut down, the pandemic fast-forwarded the EV and automation world and allowed Volta Energy to really expand their toolset and hire more engineers. “It was one of the best years we’ve ever had quite honestly,” stated Dr. Kouroussis.

And while people in the industry might currently be hesitant to dive headfirst into a career given the fragility of the pandemic, Volta Energy is only set to continue growing.

More Stories Like This:

Balancing Work, Life and Networking in Today’s Job World

Why Community and Mentorships Are Vital to a Great Business

Recent Episodes

Industries across the United States are facing an unprecedented shortage of a skilled trades workforce. With millions of baby boomers retiring and fewer young people entering the trades, sectors like HVAC, manufacturing, and construction are grappling with a critical need for talent. This labor shortage is further compounded by a lack of awareness and…

Some people have a moment where they answer the call to do something incredibly challenging, and some people make a life out of it. Leah Goldstein is in the second camp. Here is her track record: World champion kickboxer, first-ever female Israeli Defense Force undercover police officer, 1998 duathlon Olympic qualifier, professional cyclist, published author…

Managing assets is an art. From understanding the nuanced details of investment-grade capability to comprehending the dynamics of leveraged finance, the task is complex. Yet, amidst the competition, one firm has embarked on a unique trajectory: Barrow Hanley Global Investors. Barrow Hanley: Unique in Its Market Space As a $55 billion asset manager across public…