CEO Wes Smith talks about taking this small Siemens spin-off from semiconductors to microchips

CEO Wes Smith talks about taking this small Siemens spin-off from semiconductors to microchips

Author: Lighter Capital - We Help Startups Grow June 10, 2024 Duration: 25:34

Galaxy Semiconductor isn't a new company, but it is a startup. Founded in 1998, Galaxy was bootstrapped for many years before it was acquired by Siemens in 2016. Four years later, Siemens divested the company in a management buyout. Wes Smith (employee #7) was running the small business within Siemens before it became independent again — he naturally took on the role of CEO and led Galaxy into its next phase. In this episode of Bootstrapped, Wes talks about moving upstream into chip manufacturing, funding a new technology stack and getting it to market, the value of a consistent sales process, Rolodexes, and more.


For founders who've chosen to build their B2B software companies without giving up the reins, Bootstrapped : The Lighter Side offers a necessary conversation. This isn't about chasing venture capital at all costs; it's a practical dialogue focused on sustainable growth and creative problem-solving. You'll hear specific tactics for extending your runway, refining your sales process, and navigating the unique challenges of scaling a product-led business entirely on your own terms. Each episode digs into the real mechanics of founder-led growth, from managing cash flow in uncertain times to exploring alternative funding avenues that don't require sacrificing equity. The podcast regularly features founders who have walked this path successfully, sharing their unvarnished stories and hard-won lessons. It’s a resource for those moments when you need a blend of strategic advice and genuine camaraderie, reminding you that building a substantial, independent company is not just a dream but a viable, deliberate path. Tune in for honest discussions that cut through the noise of the startup world, brought to you by Lighter Capital, a team dedicated to helping startups grow.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 37

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