**Naveen Rao**, the head of artificial intelligence at the **$100 billion startup Databricks Inc.**, is planning to leave his position to launch a new venture focused on creating a **novel type of computer**, as reported by sources familiar with the matter.

A spokesperson for Databricks has confirmed that Rao is transitioning to an **advisory role** at the company. Additionally, Databricks is set to **invest in his new startup**, although the specific size of the investment has not been disclosed.

Naveen Rao, the head of artificial intelligence at the $100 billion startup Databricks Inc., is planning to leave his position to launch a new venture making a novel type of computer, according to a person familiar with the matter.

Databricks AI Chief Exits to Launch Revolutionary Computer Startup with Backing from $100B Giant

# Leadership Change at Amazon Web Services

In a significant development for the tech and startup ecosystem, **Jon Jones**, the head of startups and venture capital relationships at **Amazon Web Services (AWS)**, has resigned. Jones played a pivotal role in driving growth and fostering partnerships with startups and VCs, making this departure a notable event.

## Impact on AWS and the Startup Landscape

AWS, a subsidiary of **Amazon (AMZN:NASDAQ)**, is a dominant force in cloud computing, providing essential infrastructure for countless startups and enterprises. Jones's leadership was instrumental in expanding AWS's reach into the startup community, helping to onboard new companies and secure investments.

His resignation raises questions about the future direction of AWS's startup initiatives. Will this lead to a shift in strategy or open doors for new innovations? The timing is crucial, as the tech industry navigates economic uncertainties and evolving investment trends.

## Broader Implications for Tech Investments

This change could ripple through the venture capital world, affecting how startups access cloud resources and funding. AWS has been a key player in supporting early-stage companies, and any alterations in its approach might influence startup success rates and investment flows.

For entrepreneurs and investors, this highlights the importance of **adaptability** and staying informed about leadership changes in major tech firms. It's a reminder that even giants like Amazon are not immune to shifts that can impact the broader ecosystem.

*Note: This article is based on public reports and aims to provide insights without promotional intent.*

AWS venture capital head Jon Jones resigns after leading startup growth. Learn how this leadership change could impact AWS and future tech investments.

Shake-Up at AWS: Head of Startups and VC Relations Resigns – What It Means for the Future of Tech

## Energy Capital Start-Up Challenge: Fueling Innovation in Wyoming

Inventors and entrepreneurs are invited to apply for the third annual **Energy Capital Start-Up Challenge**, a competition designed to support new business ventures with **funding and mentorship**. According to Scot Rendall, a consultant for CFO4Success LLC, this initiative identifies promising ideas and helps founders bring them to life.

Applications will be reviewed by a panel of business leaders and experienced entrepreneurs. The top 10 applicants will advance to a semifinal round tentatively scheduled for October 9, where they will give brief presentations and participate in Q&A sessions with judges. The strongest candidates will be named Finalists and move on to Pitch Night at Gillette College, tentatively set for November 11, where judges will select three winners.

Winners receive an initial cash award after business registration, with remaining **seed funds** distributed in the first half of 2025 as goals are met. Even applicants who do not advance can request free advising from the **FUEL Business Incubator** and the **Wyoming Small Business Development Center**.

This opportunity is open to residents of Campbell, Crook, Weston, Sheridan, and Johnson counties. For more information and to apply, visit the official website.

Inventors and entrepreneurs are invited to apply for the third annual Energy Capital Start-Up Challenge, which supports new business ventures with funding and mentorship. Consultant for CFO4Success LLC Scot Rendall said the competition identifies promising ideas and helps founders bring them to life. S. Rendall Applications will be reviewed by a panel of business leaders […]

Unleash Your Startup Dream: Win Funding and Mentorship in the Energy Capital Challenge

## The Rise of Prediction Markets

Startups that enable people to bet on events such as the New York mayoral race, NFL games, and Federal Reserve rate decisions are in talks to raise more money at multi-billion-dollar valuations. This surge is driven by increasing trading volume and intense rivalry between leading apps.

### Key Players and Valuations

- **Polymarket** has considered an offer that could value it at around **$9 billion**.
- **Kalshi** is nearing a financing round that might push its valuation close to **$5 billion**.

These platforms are transforming how individuals engage with real-world events, offering a unique blend of entertainment and financial speculation. The growth highlights a broader trend in the fintech and gaming sectors, where innovation meets high-stakes investment.

Startups that enable people to bet on events such as the New York mayoral race, NFL games and the Federal Reserve rate decisions are in talks to raise more money at multi-billion-dollar valuations, as trading volume and rivalry between the two apps intensifies. Polymarket has considered an offer ...

Betting on Billions: How Prediction Markets Like Polymarket and Kalshi Are Revolutionizing Event Wagering

# FAA Introduces New Pilot Program for eVTOL Startups

The **Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)** has unveiled a groundbreaking pilot program that allows **electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) startups** to conduct test operations before achieving full regulatory certification. This initiative is a significant shift, enabling companies to perform more robust demonstrations of their technology ahead of commercial flights.

![Two Joby air taxis flying over Marina, CA](https://s.yimg.com/ny/api/res/1.2/FqOb4tB1KaiEqlp5...Kww--/YXBwaWQ9aGlnaGxhbmRlcjt3PTY0MDtoPTQyNztjZj13ZWJw/https://media.zenfs.com/en/techcrunch_finance_785/a224c758fe1e2e7702488ce39b0e8642)
*Two Joby air taxis (N541JX and N544JX) flying simultaneously in the skies over Marina, CA. Image Credits: Joby Aviation*

## Key Details of the Program

To participate, companies must partner with **state, local, tribal, or territorial governments**. The FAA will approve at least five projects, each running for up to three years. These projects can cover a range of applications, including **short-range air taxis**, longer-range fixed-wing flights, cargo hauling, logistics for emergency or medical purposes, and enhancing automation safety.

The FAA emphasizes that applicants should demonstrate the ability to work cooperatively with various entities to accelerate projects while maintaining high safety standards. This program aims to gather substantial data and lessons to inform the broader regulatory framework for the **advanced air mobility (AAM)** sector.

## Early Adopters and Timeline

So far, **Joby Aviation** and **Archer Aviation** have announced their intentions to apply for the program. Archer plans to collaborate with existing partner and investor **United Airlines**. Applications are due by December 11, 2025, with pilots potentially starting as early as 2026.

It's a major change that paves the way for electric air taxi startups to perform more robust demonstrations of their technology before they begin any commercial flights.

FAA's Game-Changing Program: eVTOL Startups Can Now Test Flights Before Full Certification

# The Rise of Defense Startups in Europe

In a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape, **defense startups** are experiencing unprecedented growth across Europe. Venture capitalists are racing to invest, driven by increased accessibility to funding and a heightened focus on security.

## Key Drivers of the Boom

According to a defense-focused venture capital investor, "The pot of gold is larger and more accessible." This surge is fueled by rising threats and the need for advanced technologies in areas like cybersecurity, drones, and AI-driven defense systems.

## Impact on the Ecosystem

This trend is reshaping the **entrepreneurship** scene, with more founders launching startups aimed at national and international security. The influx of capital is enabling rapid innovation and scaling, positioning Europe as a key player in the global defense tech market.

Investors are not only providing funds but also strategic support, helping these startups navigate regulatory challenges and secure government contracts. This collaborative effort is essential for long-term success in this high-stakes industry.

“The pot of gold is larger and more accessible,” one defense-focused venture capital investor told CNBC. 

Europe's Defense Tech Boom: How VCs Are Fueling a New Era of Military Innovation

# Altan: Revolutionizing Software with Autonomous AI Agents

Barcelona-based startup **Altan** has secured **$2.5 million** in pre-seed funding to advance its innovative platform that uses **AI agents** to autonomously create and manage software. Founded in 2023, Altan allows users to generate custom software through simple text or voice prompts, eliminating the need for traditional development teams.

## The Vision Behind Altan

According to co-founder and CEO Albert Salgueda, "Companies used to hire a team of developers who would create some solution for you or for your clients. The process of that is now being automated. That's the first step." Altan assembles teams of AI agents, each with specialized roles like UX designers and full-stack engineers, to handle tasks ranging from database creation to backend automations.

## User Base and Applications

With approximately **25,000 users**, Altan serves a diverse audience, including businesses and non-technical founders. For instance, a restaurant can quickly generate a personalized reservation system or inventory management software in just hours. The startup is currently experimenting with its business model, offering a subscription service starting at around **$25 per month**.

## Industry Context and Funding

The rise of **AI-assisted coding tools** has gained significant momentum, with companies like Lovable, Windsurf, and Replit raising billions in recent months. This trend, often referred to as **vibe coding**, leverages AI to assist both beginners and experts in coding more efficiently. Salgueda noted that operating in this "super hot space" greatly benefited Altan's fundraising efforts.

The funding round was led by **VentureFriends** and **JME Ventures**, with participation from 4Founders Ventures, ElevenLabs' Carles Reina, and other angel investors. The capital will be used to expand Altan's team, which currently consists of seven members.

## Exclusive Pitch Deck Insights

Altan shared a 16-slide pitch deck that played a key role in securing the investment. The deck highlights the company's mission, technology, and market opportunity, providing a clear blueprint for its growth strategy.

![Altan's cofounders, Albert Salgueda and Tristán Pou.](https://i.insider.com/68c2d8ee32af4d666ef7b106?width=700)

*Image: Altan's cofounders, Albert Salgueda and Tristán Pou. Source: Altan.*

Altan creates AI agents that can autonomously operate software for customers, handling tasks like database creation and backend automations.

How This AI Startup Raised $2.5M to Build Software That Runs Itself

# From Engineer to Entrepreneur: Building a Billion-Dollar Business

Shanaz Hemmati, COO and co-founder of **ZenBusiness**, shares her inspiring journey from a computer engineering background to leading a $1.7 billion company that empowers small businesses. ZenBusiness offers an all-in-one platform for LLC formation, compliance, and financial management, helping entrepreneurs navigate the complexities of starting and growing their ventures.

![Shanaz Hemmati, co-founder of ZenBusiness](https://assets.entrepreneur.com/images/misc/1757540087_ShanazsHeadshotJpeg.jpg?width=1000)
*Image Credit: Courtesy of ZenBusiness*

## Overcoming Barriers and Embracing Mentorship

Despite an **entrepreneurial spirit**, Shanaz initially hesitated to start her own business, a common challenge, especially for women in male-dominated fields. She emphasizes the importance of seeking out **mentors** who can provide guidance, assurance, and confidence. Her career included roles at Excite.com and an 11-year stint at HomeAway, which was later acquired by Expedia, giving her valuable experience in technology and business.

## The Birth of ZenBusiness

In 2017, Shanaz co-founded ZenBusiness with Ross Buhrdorf after a coffee meeting where they discussed the idea of supporting small business owners. She was driven by a passion for this market, noting that **small businesses are what keep the economy growing**. The company has since prioritized innovation, including the integration of **AI** through tools like ZenBusiness Velo, an AI assistant that helps entrepreneurs streamline processes.

## Key Principles for Success

Shanaz's mantra for leadership is: **Be fearless, be ethical, be passionate**. She explains that being fearless means acting despite imperfection, ethical behavior builds trust, and passion fuels progress. At the core, she believes that **people are at the center of any great company**, whether they are employees, customers, or the community.

ZenBusiness practices this by adopting **remote work** early on, listening to employee feedback to enhance work-life balance and productivity. This people-first approach has been crucial to their growth.

## Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

For those looking to start a business, Shanaz advises against overthinking and encourages taking action sooner. Launching a **side hustle** can be a low-risk way to test ideas, and engaging with potential customers to understand their pain points is essential. She highlights that continuous **learning** and the ability to pivot quickly are key to navigating surprises and driving business success.

Shanaz Hemmati, COO and co-founder of ZenBusiness, a $1.7 billion startup helping entrepreneurs run their small businesses, shares what makes a company strong.

Databricks AI Chief Exits to Launch Revolutionary Computer Startup with Backing from $100B Giant

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