In the heart of Silicon Valley, where startups rise and fall at breakneck speed, Luigi Foscale is carving out a unique space as a visionary entrepreneur and accelerator. Founder of luigifoscale.com, Foscale combines his family’s rich entrepreneurial history with a fresh perspective on what it takes to succeed in today’s hyper-competitive landscape. In this exclusive interview with Silicon Valley Pulse, Foscale shares insights into his journey, his family’s influence, and his vision for the future of startups.
Luigi, your background is unique. Can you share how your family’s legacy has shaped your approach to entrepreneurship?
My family has been an incredible source of inspiration. My father, Giancarlo Foscale, was instrumental in building Fininvest alongside my uncle, Silvio Berlusconi. From them, I learned two key things: the importance of structure and the power of vision. My father was methodical—he believed in building robust systems that could withstand challenges. My uncle, on the other hand, was a visionary, someone who could see opportunities where others saw obstacles. These lessons are at the core of what I do at luigifoscale.com.
Your work focuses on accelerating startups. What makes your approach different from the traditional accelerator model?
Traditional accelerators often focus primarily on funding, but I see that as just one piece of the puzzle. My approach is more comprehensive. I help startups refine their business models, build strong teams, and develop strategies for scaling effectively. It’s about preparing them not just for a funding round but for long-term success. I also place a strong emphasis on agility—helping founders adapt quickly to changing markets is critical in today’s environment.
How do you integrate the values and practices of your family legacy into your work with startups?
It’s about balancing vision with pragmatism. My father often said, “A dream without a plan is just a wish.” I bring that mindset to every startup I work with. I help them dream big but also teach them how to build the foundation to support those dreams. From my uncle, I’ve adopted the idea that you must think globally and act boldly. Startups need to disrupt industries, not just fit into them.
Silicon Valley is a crowded space for accelerators. What do you think sets your work apart here?
I believe in tailoring my approach to each startup. Many accelerators follow a one-size-fits-all model, but I know from experience that every business is unique. My programmes are customised to the specific challenges and opportunities each founder faces. Plus, I bring a European perspective, which sometimes offers a different lens on solving problems or seizing opportunities.
What role does networking play in your acceleration model?
Networking is essential. Startups need the right connections to thrive—whether that’s access to investors, industry mentors, or strategic partners. I leverage my own network, which spans from Europe to Silicon Valley, to help startups bridge those gaps. It’s not just about funding; it’s about finding people who can add value and push the business forward.
With AI and other disruptive technologies reshaping industries, how do you advise startups to position themselves?
Disruption is the new norm, so startups need to build with agility and scalability in mind from day one. I advise founders to integrate emerging technologies like AI thoughtfully—not as buzzwords, but as tools to solve real problems. And most importantly, I stress the need to keep the customer at the centre. No matter how advanced the technology, it’s the human connection that drives success.
What’s next for you and luigifoscale.com?
The goal is to expand globally while deepening the impact of our programmes. I want to create a network of startup hubs that connects founders from all over the world, fostering collaboration and shared learning. I’m also exploring ways to integrate more digital tools into our model, making our resources even more accessible. Ultimately, my mission is to empower startups to not just survive but to thrive and redefine their industries.
What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs who are just starting out?
Focus on your vision but don’t neglect the groundwork. Build a strong team, stay flexible, and never underestimate the importance of execution. Success isn’t just about having a great idea; it’s about bringing it to life and sustaining it over time. And remember, entrepreneurship is a marathon, not a sprint. Stay resilient.
Luigi Foscale is more than just an accelerator; he is a bridge between tradition and innovation, helping startups chart their course in an ever-evolving world. With his roots firmly grounded in a legacy of entrepreneurial excellence, Foscale is setting the stage for a new era of business transformation.