Question
Yes, there are several startups that have successfully implemented the concept of having a sponsor. For instance, Dropbox, a file hosting service, had its CEO Drew Houston acting as a sponsor to resolve issues and clear obstacles during its early stages. Similarly, Airbnb, a vacation rental marketplace, had its co-founder Brian Chesky playing a similar role. These sponsors were instrumental in the success of these startups by ensuring progress wasn't hindered by conflicts or system clashes.
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Every startup team needs a sponsor, someone in the company leadership who can resolve the tough problems the team will encounter and clear away obstacles. The sponsor can make exceptions to usual practice and policies, and make sure that progress isn't stymied by conflict and a clash of systems. Having a sponsor is also reassuring to team members and middle managers who may be nervous about the changes they are trying to implement.
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