![Kamil Nicieja · Before Growth](/content/images/size/w1080/format/webp/2024/03/spring.jpg)
Don’t miss the next breakthrough pick in tech.
When the best startups make it to the big leagues, it’s too late. The secret is to scout below the radar.
I’m Kamil Nicieja, a fellow founder and programmer. This is Before Growth—my newsletter about startups before product–market fit.
No matter if you’re an investor targeting a new unicorn or a startup leader hunting for inspiration, I’ll bring you research on the top companies of the future before they even step out of their garages.
The Economics of LLMs
How to avoid bankruptcy scaling up large language models
![The Economics of LLMs](/content/images/size/w1460/format/webp/2024/03/conceptual-illustration-person-adjusting-control-panel-dials-labeled-cost-efficiency-data-manag-843906326.jpeg)
Regulating AI
The EU aims to introduce a common regulatory framework for AI. Is this bad news for startups?
![Regulating AI](/content/images/size/w1460/format/webp/2023/10/photo-of-a-modern-european-union-office-setting-with-a-round-table-discussion-at-the-center-two-pr-691761669.png)
No Work Is Ever Wasted
What if you’ve launched your app, poured your heart into it, and still crashed and burned?
![No Work Is Ever Wasted](/content/images/size/w1460/format/webp/2023/09/lumberjacks-forest-working-sweating-woods-trees-axe-lumber-stacks-tired-defeated-resting-121838973.png)
Investments from Friends and Family
Exploring the fine line between friendship and investment through a conversation with my first investor.
![Investments from Friends and Family](/content/images/size/w1460/format/webp/2023/09/high-energy-trading-floor-tension-custom-tailored-suits-multiple-computer-monitors-real-time-fin-174050559.png)
Chaining Prompts
Chains go beyond a single LLM call and involve sequences of calls.
![Chaining Prompts](/content/images/size/w1460/format/webp/2024/06/a-weathered-iron-chain-draped-casually-across-the-foreground-direction-right--rust-spots-clinging-192983794.jpeg)
Side Projects
Repeat after me: I will not start another side project… Oh, shit.
![Side Projects](/content/images/size/w1460/format/webp/2024/05/close-up-view-of-a-gardeners-hands-quads-full-of-soil-planting-a-tiny-seedling-into-a-rich-dark--866271220.jpeg)
When You Say It Twice, Write It Down
…and save everybody’s time.
![When You Say It Twice, Write It Down](/content/images/size/w1460/format/webp/2024/05/close-up-of-a-hand-gliding-over-parchment-vintage-fountain-pen-in-motion-antique-oak-desk-scatter-498662994.jpeg)
Intelligence as an API
AI models are getting hard to beat when it comes to getting simple answers right at scale.
![Intelligence as an API](/content/images/size/w1460/format/webp/2024/05/a-conceptual-representation-of-intelligence-as-a-glowing-entity-existing-in-an-infinite-virtual-lib-971794079.jpeg)
Pairing with AI
Raise your floor with large language models.
![Pairing with AI](/content/images/size/w1460/format/webp/2024/03/a-vibrant-and-welcoming-school-building-under-a-clear-blue-sky-in-front-of-the-school-a-diverse-gr-279877784.jpeg)
The Facts Are Friendly
People and startups grow by facing reality.
![The Facts Are Friendly](/content/images/size/w1460/format/webp/2024/02/historical-footage-of-california-during-the-gold-rush-351070729.jpeg)
On a Scale From One to Ten, With No Sevens
Eliminate the safe option.
![On a Scale From One to Ten, With No Sevens](/content/images/size/w1460/format/webp/2024/02/a-dramatic-powerful-storm-over-the-ocean-with-dark-swirling-clouds-lightning-strikes-illuminatin-724698872.jpeg)
Is ChatGPT the New Alexa?
Did any custom GPTs get traction or is that playing out like Alexa skills?
![Is ChatGPT the New Alexa?](/content/images/size/w1460/format/webp/2024/01/a-detailed-view-of-an-amazon-alexa-smart-speaker-on-a-table-with-the-focus-on-the-device-the-speak-642329295.jpeg)
High Tolerance for Imbalance
Adapt or die.
![High Tolerance for Imbalance](/content/images/size/w1460/format/webp/2024/01/a-performer-skillfully-executing-a-balancing-act-on-a-tightrope-the-scene-is-set-outdoors-with-a-cl-564832009.jpeg)
Scope is What Kills Founders
Particularly those who are inexperienced.
![Scope is What Kills Founders](/content/images/size/w1460/format/webp/2024/01/a-dramatic-scene-depicting-a-climber-experiencing-a-fall-from-a-high-place-while-climbing-a-mountain-404196533.png)
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