Silicon Valley Accelerate

Having spent the week navigating using Google maps it seemed appropriate that our Thursday commenced with a Google Meeting. On this occasion it was with Google WAZE the community based, crowd sourced, navigation system. The session proved such a success that we immediately converted to Waze and we must report the results were encouraging. This meeting was secured through the efforts of a Scottish Business Network member and proved the value of the network to the group.

We left Google and headed into the centre of Silicon Valley to Cupertino to meet with GlobalScot and huge supporter of our programme Eric McAfee. A meeting with Eric is a highlight of any trip, on this occasion he was particularly focused on the entrepreneurs need to control their own destiny at all times. He also covered subjects close to my own heart: –

• That Scottish business leaders need to reach out much more internationally and take advantage of markets open to them.
• That we must “park” our fear of failure and embrace the opportunity of success.
• We must act as true entrepreneurs and secure access to resources and talent we do not manage through building a vision that attracts supporters.

In the second half of the meeting Eric listened to pitches by each member of the group and offered advice and guidance on particular issues. A truly unique opportunity made possible only through the access to the GlobalScot network and the hard efforts of Bruce Walker.

Quick exit from a mind blowing session with Eric and it was down to meet with eBay to discuss the different approaches nations take to legislation around data and internet usage. Really insightful session that kept the buzz going in the van as we headed down to Santa Cruz for dinner and a beach side walk.

Fed and rested it was off back to San Francisco and bed, two hour drive in the dark in a 16 seater is always fun

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