Business

Young Entrepreneur Andrew Hristo On Harnessing the Power of the Internet

Published

5 years ago

September 26, 2020

When asked what he wants to be known for and what he’d like his legacy to be, Andrew Hristo passionately conveys the message of financial freedom and the opportunity we all have to live on our own terms. According to Andrew, these possibilities are within reach for everyone, and it’s all thanks to the internet.

When the internet hit its first screens all the way back in October 1969, we had no idea that the one, simple message of “L. O”–sent 350 miles to a Stanford research institute in California, and which led to a system crash–would change the way we live and do business. Recent years have seen an explosion of online businesses dominating the earning sphere.

Online businesses are far more accessible to people who don’t have the funds to put up major capital. While there’s a greater chance of success for everyone, it still takes incredibly hard work and courage to get started. The first few months–maybe even the first few years–might be slow going and one will have to play around to learn what works and what doesn’t. So what’s the motivation behind striking out on one’s own? Why not stay where they are, safe in their bubble that’s held up by someone else?

For Andrew, it’s all about doing something he enjoys, and not living a life where he has to count the days to his next paycheck. One can find something they love doing, and then create a business around that. If one wanted to do this 20 years ago, they would have to come from a wealthy family, have a magnificent stroke of luck, or put in decades of work before seeing a significant profit. With the internet, aspiring entrepreneurs have the chance to launch their companies from their homes with little overhead costs and minimal risk.

Andrew knows firsthand about the power of the internet. He’s fulfilled his goal of being able to generate multiple six figures a year from his laptop, which he cites as one of his biggest successes. Andrew didn’t come from money and he didn’t live in a major city. He’s also just 25 years old. Hailing from a small town in South Australia, Andrew initially dipped his toes into the world of e-commerce when he was only 13 years old. Having access to the internet allowed him to sell products across the country, rather than being limited to the people in his town.

To keep up with Andrew, you can follow him on Instagram at @andrewhristo.

Business

Spynn’s PR Playbook for Startups Turning Funding into Market Leadership

Published

3 weeks ago

March 27, 2025

Matthew Wiles

Byline: Jennyfer Ann Valencia

The recent funding boom in India, where startups raised over $428 million between March 10 and March 15, 2025, reinforces the critical role of public relations (PR) in securing investor confidence and enhancing visibility. As competition intensifies, effective PR strategies help startups differentiate themselves and build a strong market presence.

Spynn, a PR agency for startups specializing in securing top-tier media coverage, enables startups to craft compelling narratives that attract investors and maintain a positive brand image.

The Role of PR in Startup Funding

A recent survey conducted by Spynn found that startups with a strong PR strategy are significantly more likely to secure funding rounds than those without. According to the research, nearly 70% of investors say media visibility and brand credibility helped their decision-making process. This highlights PR’s direct impact on a startup’s ability to attract investment.

PR helps startups articulate their value to investors by securing media coverage and highlighting their growth potential. High-profile placements lend credibility and set up startups’ potential, making them more attractive to investors. For instance, a well-publicized success story from a startup like Zolve, one of the top funding recipients, can drive further investor interest and strengthen its brand.

India’s funding surge spans sectors including Batterytech, Edtech, Gaming, Apparel, Aerospace, Manufacturing, Fintech, Energy, and Travel. While this presents opportunities, it also brings scrutiny. Startups must manage their reputations effectively, ensuring consistency in their messaging across media platforms. As a PR agency for startups, Spynn’s expertise in reputation management helps businesses navigate these challenges by maintaining a cohesive brand identity and reinforcing investor trust.

Establishing Credibility Through Media Placements

Research from Spynn also revealed that startups that get featured on Forbes, Business Insider, and other top-tier publications experience a 50% increase in inbound investor inquiries within six months. This shows the value of securing strategic media placements to reinforce credibility and market positioning.

Strong media coverage bolsters a startup’s credibility, reinforcing its market positioning and investor confidence. Spynn ensures startups secure coverage in authoritative outlets, helping them establish themselves as thought leaders. Beyond initial publicity, Spynn focuses on building long-term relationships with media, ensuring sustained visibility and brand consistency.

Spynn’s CEO, Matteo Ferretti, emphasizes the role of storytelling, “Effective PR is about coverage and creating narratives that resonate with audiences. Startups must highlight their unique value and demonstrate how they solve real-world problems.”

PR for Growth and Global Expansion

Spynn’s data indicates that startups leveraging international PR strategies are twice as likely to successfully attract foreign investors and expand into new markets. Media coverage tailored for global audiences enhances cross-border recognition and facilitates partnerships, making PR an essential tool for growth beyond domestic markets.

As Indian startups scale, a strong PR strategy facilitates global recognition. Spynn’s international media reach helps startups gain traction in new markets and attract foreign investors. This is especially crucial for sectors like Fintech and Edtech, where global expansion is key to success.

A well-executed PR strategy strengthens a startup’s digital footprint, ensuring a consistent and engaging presence across platforms. Matteo Ferretti highlights the importance of balance, “A successful PR approach integrates both digital and traditional media to maximize impact and audience engagement.“

Ethical Considerations and Future Trends

Transparency and ethical storytelling are vital in PR. Startups must ensure authenticity in their messaging to build lasting trust. Spynn upholds ethical PR practices that align with principles of sustainability and integrity.

Indian startups must adapt to evolving PR trends, including AI-driven outreach, digital media dominance, and deeper media relationships. As competition grows, startups that take advantage of PR will have a better standing for long-term success.

Spynn’s PR strategies equip Indian startups with the tools to navigate funding surges, enhance credibility, and drive growth. By securing impactful media coverage and managing reputation effectively, startups can strengthen investor confidence and expand their market presence. As India’s startup ecosystem evolves, PR remains an indispensable asset for sustained success.