Eric Zhu Built a Tech Startup and Raised $1M

At only 17, Eric Zhu started Aviato, a data analysis company, and remarkably raised $1 million while in high school. His entrepreneurial career started during the pandemic when he interacted with the “Gen Z Mafia” community on Discord, building relationships that would be worth their weight in gold. Balancing schoolwork and startup responsibilities, Eric Zhu often found himself leading Zoom meetings from his high school bathroom, complete with ring light and green screen to maintain professionalism. The unconventional setup didn’t deter investors; rather, it showed his dedication and resourcefulness. Interestingly, GitHub co-founder Tom Preston-Werner was among the first investors, contributing towards the initial $50,000 that propelled Aviato forward.

Building Aviato: From Code to Capital

Eric Zhu was fascinated with technology early in his life. At 14, he co-founded a nonprofit to teach coding, paving the way for his subsequent enterprises. Sensing a gap in data analysis solutions, he founded Aviato to deliver groundbreaking solutions to companies. His solution-based strategy involved bringing together technical acumen with a sense of market demands, and that too caught the interest of investors as well as colleagues. The initial funding round, with strategic networking and a solid pitch, enabled Aviato to expand its team and develop its product offerings.

Lessons from Eric Zhu: Turning Adversities into Opportunities

Eric’s story is a testament to the power of persistence and flexibility. Having a high school bathroom for an office is unconventional, but it says a lot about his willingness to capitalize on any opportunity. His experience shows several valuable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs:

Resourcefulness is Key: Utilizing the available spaces and equipment can resolve logistical problems.

Networking is Important: Connecting with groups such as the “Gen Z Mafia” can result in valuable contacts.

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Eric’s story teaches us that through determination and resourcefulness, even the most unlikely surroundings can be breeding grounds for success.