Founders on Founders: navigating the early days of startup life

What does it actually feel like to launch a startup? In this conversation, two early-stage founders open up about navigating uncertainty, validating ideas, and making the leap from side project to full-time venture. The result is an unfiltered dialogue - rich with honest insights, hard-earned lessons, and the shared ambition to build something that matters. 

We meet Filippo Simone, co-founder of Brix Supply and Daniele Minnicucci, co-founder of Revivo. Two startups currently on distinct but complementary journeys within the B4i ecosystem: the Acceleration and the Pre-Acceleration Programs.

Brix, which is building software to streamline procurement in the construction industry, is nearing its first market launch after months of testing with design partners. Revivo, which connects fashion brands with certified artisans to transform repair into a sustainable, scalable service, has just incorporated and is validating its MVP with early partners. 

This conversation illuminates the often-overlooked, deeply personal dimensions of founding a company, those for which no playbook exists. If you're eyeing entrepreneurship - especially with our current call for startups open - this is a conversation worth reading.  

And if you'd rather hear it straight from their voices, scroll down and hit play: the full video is available below.

From idea to MVP 

Daniele (Revivo | Pre-Acceleration program): 
When we applied to B4i, we already had a very rough MVP. It was mostly spreadsheets and some basic automation, but it was enough to test with potential partners. We realized that it’s better to keep things simple and focus on solving the real pain point. 

Filippo (Brix Supply | Acceleration program): 
In our case, we were already incorporated and had a clearer roadmap. But even then, we focused heavily on validating our solution with design partners rather than rushing to build too much too soon. 

Validation in the wild 

Daniele (Revivo | Pre-Acceleration program):
We’ve talked to a lot of potential clients — fashion brands, artisans, even end customers — to understand the ecosystem. What we learned in pre-acceleration is that talking to your target personas is the first step to validating your idea. But when do you know it’s truly validated? That’s still a question for us. 

Filippo (Brix Supply | Acceleration program): 
We spent four to five months before joining B4i working with design partners to validate the idea. That process gave us confidence in our assumptions and helped shape the vision. Once in the acceleration program, we used the entire first month to finalize our beta and prepare for real market feedback. 

Quote Brix Supply

When it feels real: incorporation, clients, and commitment 

Daniele (Revivo | Pre-Acceleration program): 
Incorporating the company was a big moment for us. We’re starting to test the service with a few partners now, focusing on a B2B2C model where brands can offer repairs through a white-label service. The idea is to turn repair — from a cost center into a revenue stream — especially as EU regulations push for sustainability. 

Filippo (Brix Supply | Acceleration program): 
We were already incorporated when we joined the Acceleration. For us, the moment it felt real was when all three co-founders decided to quit our jobs. It wasn’t immediate — we each came in at different times — but once we were aligned, we went all in. 

Money Talk: Salaries, Fundraising, and Survival 

Daniele (Revivo | Pre-Acceleration program): 
Right now, we’re still working part-time. But we’re planning to fundraise and go full-time by the end of the year. One thing we weren’t sure about: is it a red flag to pay yourself after your first round? 

Filippo (Brix Supply | Acceleration program): 
It depends on how much money. If you’re in Milan and paying rent, even a modest salary is necessary. Investors expect you to be focused, and that requires stability. We had a budget planned before starting, and once we raised funding, we started paying ourselves something fair but minimal. It shows discipline. 

Quote of Revivo

The art of semplification 

Daniele (Revivo | Pre-Acceleration program): 
Simplify. That’s the biggest lesson. Don’t try to do everything. Pick one direction and go deep. That’s what Pre-Acceleration taught us. 

Filippo (Brix Supply | Acceleration program): 
Absolutely. At first, your idea is a mess in your head. But as you go, you talk to people, and the picture becomes clearer. You start explaining it in fewer words. That’s when you know you’re getting closer. 

Would you do it again? 

Daniele (Revivo | Pre-Acceleration program): 
Absolutely. Maybe next time as part of the Acceleration Program.  

Filippo (Brix Supply | Acceleration program): 
For sure. Hopefully with another venture in the future.