iVenturer Foundation, in collaboration with the Moscow Government and the nonprofit youth organization STOлица, is proud to announce the launch of a groundbreaking free educational program titled “Financial, Legal, and Civic Literacy.” This initiative is set to empower the youth of Moscow with essential skills and knowledge, aiming to reach and educate over 10,000 participants within the next year. Designed to address critical knowledge gaps, the program covers a wide range of topics, including financial management, legal rights and responsibilities, and the fundamentals of active citizenship. These areas are vital for fostering informed, responsible, and capable young individuals who can navigate modern societal challenges with confidence. The opening ceremony featured a keynote address by Aleksey Olin, Managing Director of iVenturer Foundation. In his speech, Olin emphasized the program’s importance in shaping the future of Moscow’s youth and building a foundation for a more informed and engaged society. “Education is the cornerstone of progress,” Olin remarked. “Through this initiative, we aim to equip young people with the tools they need to succeed and contribute meaningfully to their communities.” The “Financial, Legal, and Civic Literacy” program will be delivered through a combination of online courses, workshops, and interactive sessions led by industry experts, legal professionals, and civic leaders. Participants will have the opportunity to gain practical knowledge and hands-on experience, ensuring a comprehensive learning process. Why This Program Matters Now: In today’s rapidly changing world, young people face increasingly complex challenges, from navigating economic uncertainties to understanding their legal rights and responsibilities. With the rise of digital technologies and the global flow of information, it is more important than ever for youth to develop the skills needed to make informed decisions, safeguard their interests, and actively participate in society. This program addresses these urgent needs, providing a timely and relevant educational resource to prepare young people for the future. Benefits for Participants: Practical Skills: Students will gain hands-on experience in managing personal finances, understanding legal frameworks, and engaging in civic activities. Expert Guidance: Sessions will be led by experienced professionals, providing valuable insights and mentorship. Certification: Upon completion, participants will receive a certificate recognizing their achievements, enhancing their resumes and future career opportunities. Networking Opportunities: The program will connect students with peers, mentors, and leaders in various fields, fostering valuable relationships. Increased Confidence: By understanding their rights, responsibilities, and financial options, participants will feel more empowered to make informed decisions. This initiative reflects the shared commitment of iVenturer Foundation, the Moscow Government, and STOлица to support the personal and professional development of young people. By investing in the next generation, the program seeks to foster a culture of responsibility, legal awareness, and civic engagement. Applications for the program are now open, with sessions set to commence in the coming weeks. Young people across Moscow are encouraged to take advantage of this unique opportunity to enhance their skills and knowledge for a brighter future. 00:00
The Russian market for hookah products and tobacco items is experiencing a significant rise, with an annual growth rate of 5–7% in recent years. In 2023, analysts estimated the Russian tobacco and hookah accessories market to have exceeded 30 billion rubles. Amidst this growing demand for premium and innovative products, a new player has emerged — DUUL, a premium-quality hookah mix enriched with CBD. This unique product will be available in leading tobacco shops, as well as in restaurants, bars, and hookah lounges across Russia. My Big Love Bar, owned by renowned businessman Anatoly Smorgonsky, will be the first venue to introduce DUUL to its customers, setting the stage for a revolutionary experience. DUUL: Unique Features and Product Benefits DUUL is crafted for discerning consumers seeking more than just a typical hookah experience. It combines top-quality tobacco leaves, distinctive flavors, and premium cannabidiol (CBD) for a gentle relaxation and anti-stress effect. Unlike traditional hookah mixes, DUUL offers unique qualities that make it highly appealing: Unique Relaxation Effect: The CBD in DUUL provides a soft relaxation effect that many hookah lovers will appreciate. High-Quality Ingredients: DUUL is crafted with premium components and natural flavorings, delivering a deep, rich taste. Natural and Eco-Friendly: DUUL is promoted as a product without artificial additives, catering to the growing demand for eco-friendly, high-quality products. DUUL’s founder, Andrey Pangaev, shares his vision for the product: “DUUL is not just a hookah mix; it’s an entirely new level of enjoyment for those who value quality relaxation. We’ve combined premium ingredients with natural CBD to create a mix that will surprise everyone who tries it. It’s not only the taste but also a special sense of relaxation and harmony.” Trends and Market Prospects for Hookah Products According to recent reports, the Russian hookah market is expected to grow by an average of 8–10% annually by 2025. Demand for premium hookah mixes like DUUL is rising due to trends favoring eco-friendly, high-quality, and safe products. Furthermore, the addition of CBD makes DUUL a unique offering that has already gained popularity in countries like the U.S., Canada, and across Europe. Experts emphasize that the Russian market is ready for a new product: studies show that 65% of hookah consumers in Russia are willing to try innovative mixes and are interested in natural additives, including CBD. This makes DUUL a promising player capable of occupying a unique niche alongside traditional tobacco brands. Market Entry Strategy and Future Plans DUUL’s launch on the Russian market is supported by iVenturer Foundation, which sees significant potential in the product. Aleksey Olin from iVenturer Foundation shared their ambitious plans: “DUUL has already established itself as a product with high demand in the innovative hookah mix market. We’re confident that with our marketing approach and product scaling across Russia, DUUL will become a leader in its category. We have ambitious plans and are already seeing considerable interest from distributors and hookah establishments.” This support from the foundation allows DUUL to significantly expand production and establish a strong distribution network. Plans include large-scale product promotion not only in tobacco stores and specialized hookah lounges but also in premium cafes and restaurants to reach a broader audience. Partnership with My Big Love Bar — First Steps to Success The first venue to offer DUUL to its guests will be My Big Love Bar, managed by Anatoly Smorgonsky. Known for its openness to innovation and high standards of quality, the decision to become DUUL’s first partner was clear for them. Anatoly Smorgonsky explains his choice: “We always strive to offer our clients something special that sets us apart from other establishments. DUUL is not just a blend; it’s a whole concept of a unique experience. We are confident that our choice is justified, and our guests will appreciate this premium product.” My Big Love Bar will serve as a test platform for this new CBD hookah mix, and the project’s success in this venue is expected to help DUUL reach a wider audience nationwide. Conclusion DUUL’s entry into the Russian market is not just a new product launch but the opening of an entirely new segment in the industry. DUUL is expected to become a leader among premium hookah mixes, attracting attention from enthusiasts of quality and innovation. With the increasing demand for natural and safe products, DUUL offers a new experience that has already gained popularity in Western markets. The company’s ambitious plans include expanding its presence in major Russian cities and eventually into CIS countries. The combination of premium ingredients and a unique relaxation effect makes DUUL a highly sought-after product among a wide range of consumers.
As we approach the end of 2024 and look ahead to 2025, the venture capital (VC) landscape is expected to undergo significant changes, driven by emerging trends, technological advancements, and shifting investor sentiments. This article provides an in-depth analysis of the current state of venture capital investments, highlighting key trends, opportunities, and challenges that investors, startups, and industry stakeholders should be aware of in the coming months. End 2024: Trends and Expectations Increased Focus on Profitability: As the year comes to a close, VC investors will prioritize startups with demonstrated profitability, as the market shifts towards more sustainable and cash-efficient business models. Rise of Alternative Investment Models: Alternative investment models, such as revenue-based financing and equity crowdfunding, will gain traction, providing startups with more options for funding. Growing Importance of ESG: Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) considerations will become more prominent in VC investments, with investors prioritizing startups that demonstrate strong ESG credentials. Continued Growth in Emerging Markets: Venture capital investments in emerging markets, such as Africa, Latin America, and Southeast Asia, will continue to grow, driven by increasing internet penetration, mobile adoption, and government support for entrepreneurship. 2025: Trends and Expectations Web3 and Decentralized Technologies: The rise of Web3 and decentralized technologies is expected to continue, with VC investments in blockchain, cryptocurrency, and decentralized finance (DeFi) startups increasing. Climate Tech and Sustainability: Climate change and sustainability will remain top priorities, with VC investments in climate tech, renewable energy, and sustainable infrastructure expected to grow. Healthtech and Biotech: Advances in healthcare technology, personalized medicine, and biotech will continue to attract VC investments, driven by the need for innovative healthcare solutions. Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning: AI and ML will remain key areas of focus, with VC investments in AI-powered startups, particularly in industries such as healthcare, finance, and education. Cybersecurity and Data Privacy: As technology advances, cybersecurity threats will become more sophisticated, and VC investments in cybersecurity startups will remain strong. Opportunities in Venture Capital Investments Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: VC firms will prioritize diversity, equity, and inclusion in their investment portfolios, providing opportunities for underrepresented founders and startups. Corporate Venture Capital: Large corporations will continue to invest in startups to stay ahead of the innovation curve, providing opportunities for partnerships and collaborations. Emerging Markets: Venture capital investments in emerging markets will continue to grow, driven by increasing internet penetration, mobile adoption, and government support for entrepreneurship. Challenges Facing Venture Capital Investments Economic Volatility: The ongoing economic uncertainty, fueled by geopolitical tensions and supply chain disruptions, may impact VC investments, leading to increased caution among investors. Valuation Pressures: The VC industry will continue to experience valuation pressures, driven by intense competition for deals, making it essential for startups to demonstrate strong growth potential and sustainable business models. Regulatory Environment: The regulatory environment for VC investments will become increasingly complex, with governments introducing new rules and guidelines to protect investors and consumers. The venture capital landscape is expected to undergo significant changes in the coming months, driven by emerging trends, technological advancements, and shifting investor sentiments. By understanding these trends and challenges, investors, startups, and industry stakeholders can navigate the complex VC landscape and capitalize on the opportunities that 2024 and 2025 have to offer. iVenturer Foundation is an organization dedicated to empowering entrepreneurs, startups, and small businesses by providing access to resources, funding, and mentorship. Our mission is to foster innovation, create jobs, and drive economic growth in underserved communities. 2025 Objectives: Expand Reach: Establish a presence in 10 new countries, increasing our global footprint to 20 countries. Diversify Funding: Secure $10 million in funding from corporate partners, foundations, and government agencies to support our programs. Mentorship Program: Launch a mentorship program, pairing 500 entrepreneurs with experienced mentors, resulting in a 25% increase in startup success rates. Incubation and Acceleration: Establish 5 new incubators and accelerators, providing resources and support to 200 startups. Women and Minority Empowerment: Launch initiatives to support women and minority entrepreneurs, aiming to increase their representation in our programs by 30%. Digital Platform: Develop a digital platform, offering online resources, training, and networking opportunities to 10,000 entrepreneurs. Impact Measurement: Develop and implement a robust impact measurement framework, tracking key performance indicators (KPIs) such as job creation, revenue growth, and social impact. Strategic Initiatives: Partnerships: Collaborate with 20 corporate partners, foundations, and government agencies to secure funding, resources, and expertise. Program Development: Develop and launch new programs, including a women’s entrepreneurship program, a minority entrepreneurship program, and a sustainability-focused program. Marketing and Communications: Launch a targeted marketing campaign, increasing brand awareness and reaching 1 million entrepreneurs through social media, events, and content marketing. Talent Acquisition: Hire 10 new team members, including program managers, marketing specialists, and impact measurement experts. Governance: Establish a diverse and experienced board of directors, ensuring effective governance and strategic guidance. Budget Allocation: Programs: 60% ($6 million) – Incubation, acceleration, mentorship, and training programs. Marketing and Communications: 20% ($2 million) – Brand awareness, marketing campaigns, and events. Talent Acquisition and Development: 10% ($1 million) – Hiring and training new team members. Governance and Operations: 5% ($500,000) – Board of directors, administrative costs, and overheads. Impact Measurement and Evaluation: 5% ($500,000) – Developing and implementing impact measurement framework. Key Performance Indicators (KPIs): Number of entrepreneurs supported: 5,000 Number of startups incubated and accelerated: 200 Mentorship program success rate: 25% Women and minority entrepreneur representation: 30% Job creation: 1,500 Revenue growth: $10 million Social impact: 20% increase in community engagement and social entrepreneurship By achieving these objectives and implementing these strategic initiatives, the iVenturer Foundation with Olin Aleksei in head of it will make a significant impact in the entrepreneurial ecosystem, driving economic growth, job creation, and social progress in underserved communities.
By Aleksey Olin, Managing Partner @ iVenturer Foundation In the whirlwind year of 2023, against a backdrop of intensifying sanctions and financial restrictions, Russia’s investment dynamics unfolded with compelling resilience and strategic redirection. Despite the mounting challenges, including blocked accounts and extensive sanctions, the outflow of private capital to foreign markets tells a story of adaptability, foresight, and a testament to the unyielding spirit of Russian investors. The Great Shift: Understanding the Numbers The investment scene in Russia has witnessed a significant transformation. A remarkable ₽187 billion was directed into listed shares of non-residents, while a staggering ₽1.6 trillion found its way into unlisted shares and other forms of non-resident capital participation. Furthermore, currency debt securities attracted ₽420 billion in investments. These figures culminate in a whopping ₽2.2 trillion of private funds legally exiting the country, including through transactions facilitated by the Moscow Exchange. Sanctions: A Double-Edged Sword The introduction of sanctions against the Moscow Exchange intended to clamp down on the pathways through which Russian capital was migrating Westwards. Interestingly, these measures have had a paradoxical effect. Rather than stifling financial activity, they prompted a strategic pivot among Russian investors towards diversifying their portfolios and exploring alternative markets and instruments. Speculation and Strategy in Currency and Futures Markets Currency and futures markets have always been a hotspot for speculation. In the context of 2023, these venues gained even more prominence. Investors, both seasoned and novices, delved into these markets not only for hedging against uncertainties but also as a strategic maneuver to capitalize on the volatility induced by geopolitical tensions. The Ripple Effect: Broader Implications The investment patterns observed in 2023 have far-reaching implications. Firstly, they underscore the resilience of the Russian financial market and its participants. Despite the external pressures and constraining environment, there is a relentless pursuit of opportunity and growth. Secondly, the scenario highlights the global interconnectedness of financial markets. Sanctions and restrictions, while local in their application, have global repercussions, affecting investor behavior and market dynamics worldwide. Looking Ahead: Innovation Within Constraints As we step into the future, the narrative surrounding Russian investments is unlikely to be about limitations and restrictions. Instead, it will be about the ingenious ways in which investors navigate through challenges. The focus will be on innovation, seeking new corridors for capital growth, and leveraging digital and technological advancements to access global markets. Conclusion The year 2023 epitomized the adaptability and strategic foresight of the Russian investment landscape. Faced with sanctions and account blockages, the movement of capital towards foreign assets not only sustained but also revealed a narrative of resilience and opportunity-seeking. As managing partner of iVenturer Foundation, my perspective is clear: constraints can foster creativity, and the future of Russian investments is poised for a journey of innovation and global integration. In a world rife with uncertainties, the adaptability and strategic realignment demonstrated by Russian investors serve as a testament to the enduring spirit of resilience and innovation. The story of 2023 is not just about capital outflow but about the strategic evolution of the Russian investment ethos, ready to navigate the complexities of the global financial landscape.
On May 17, 2024, a joint meeting of the Inter-Sectoral Subcommittee on Support of Foreign Economic Projects of the RSPP Committee for International Cooperation and the Expert Group on Import Substitution of the RSPP was held at the RSPP on Kotelnicheskaya Embankment. The topic of the meeting: Modern domestic IT technologies and solutions. Technological independence and the problem of uniform standards and approaches within the framework of the state program on import substitution in the field of information technology. The moderator of the event was: Shoitov A.M. – Deputy Minister of Digital Development, Communications and Mass Communications. Key speeches and participants: Welcome speech Shutenko O.V. – Chairman of the Inter-Sectoral Subcommittee on Support of Foreign Economic Projects of the RSPP Committee on International Cooperation Artemkin A.V. – Head of the Expert Group on Import Substitution of the Russian Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs Opening remarks E.M. Sheremetets – Deputy Minister of Energy of the Russian Federation Data Privacy versus Machine Learning: Should progress be sacrificed? Tkachev A.O. – Deputy of the State Duma, First Deputy Chairman of the State Duma Committee on Information Policy, Information Technology and Communications Priority areas for the development of standardization in the IT sector Shalaev A.P. – Head of the Federal Agency for Technical Regulation and Metrology Medical Technologies: today and tomorrow Sharapkin T.V. – Deputy General Director of JSC Russian Railways Medicine (VKS) From Technical Competence to Technical leadership: new opportunities and challenges S.A. Plugotarenko – General Director of ANO “Digital Economy” (VKS) Opportunities and tools for effective support of digital transformation and system support of technological independence of electric power companies Kravchenko K.Yu. – Deputy General Director for Digital Transformation of PJSC ROSSETI The role of technical regulation and standardization in achieving technological independence A.N. Lotsmanov – Deputy Chairman of the RSPP Committee on Technical Regulation Aleksey Olin, Managing Partner of the iVenturer Foundation, had the honor to participate in a joint meeting of the Intersectoral Subcommittee on Support of Foreign Economic Projects and the Expert Group on Import Substitution. He shared his own opinion on the prerequisites and importance of standardization: “This event highlighted the relevance and importance of standardization of information technology (IT) in Russia, which is especially important in light of modern challenges and opportunities. Data Privacy vs. Machine Learning Background: In the era of big data and machine learning, data privacy is becoming one of the key issues. The importance of standardization: Standards are necessary to ensure a balance between data protection and the development of machine learning technologies so that innovations do not violate users’ privacy rights. Priority directions for the development of standardization in the field of IT Background: The IT industry is developing rapidly, and the lack of standards can lead to fragmentation of technologies and solutions. The importance of standardization: The development of uniform standards makes it possible to unify approaches to the development and implementation of IT solutions, which contributes to their compatibility and increase overall efficiency. Medical technologies: today and tomorrow Background: Modern medical technologies require a high degree of accuracy and reliability. The importance of standardization: Standards ensure the quality and safety of medical IT solutions, which is especially important for people’s health and lives. From Technical sovereignty to technical leadership Background: In the context of global competition and technological sovereignty, it is important to strengthen the position of domestic developments. The importance of standardization: Standardization helps to integrate national developments into the global ecosystem, making them internationally competitive. Opportunities and tools for effective support of digital transformation Background: Digital transformation requires a systematic approach and comprehensive support. The importance of standardization: Uniform standards ensure the compatibility of various digital solutions and platforms, facilitating their integration and management. The role of technical regulation and standardization in achieving technological independence Background: Technological independence is a strategic goal for any country. The importance of standardization: Standardization allows you to create a sustainable technological infrastructure, independent of external factors and influences. The meeting demonstrated that IT standardization is not just a technical aspect, but a fundamental basis for successful development and innovation. It is important that the public and private sectors continue to cooperate in this direction, creating uniform and sustainable standards that will contribute to the development of domestic technologies and their integration into the global context.” The event ended with a lively discussion. The meeting was summed up by E.A. Boev, Co-Head of the Expert Group on Import Substitution of the RSPP. 00:00
