While many startup founders look to code, capital, and strategy to launch their ventures, Jay Fajardo, CEO of Proudcloud and co-founder of Launchgarage, believes that the foundation of success lies elsewhere—in courage, humility, and the willingness to ask for help.
Looking back on his own entrepreneurial journey, Jay shares what he wishes he had understood earlier. “Be fearless but remember to seek out mentors for wisdom and advice,” he told Financial Adviser PH. It’s a simple truth, but one that many founders overlook in the early, high-pressure stages of building a startup.
As someone who’s spent decades in the tech space—first as a builder, now as a mentor and investor—Jay has seen firsthand how easy it is for entrepreneurs to get caught up in product features, metrics, and investor pitches. But for him, the real breakthroughs come from self-belief and continuous learning. His advice to today’s founders? “Never underestimate yourself.”
That mindset shift—from doubt to belief—can be the difference between quitting and pushing through uncertainty. But Jay is quick to point out that confidence isn’t about ego. It’s about knowing your limits and surrounding yourself with people who help you grow.
He’s also clear on the importance of mentorship and community. “You don’t have to know everything or do everything alone,” he suggests. Seeking out mentors is not a sign of weakness, but rather a sign of wisdom. The best founders, he believes, are those who are confident enough to admit what they don’t know—and bold enough to learn anyway.
When asked how he hopes to be remembered—not just as a CEO or investor, but as a human being—Jay’s response says everything about his values: “I’d rather be remembered as a person that didn’t settle for the status quo.” Whether through his companies or through Launchgarage’s support of early-stage founders, Jay has consistently challenged norms and pushed for real innovation.
His final reflection is a rallying call for those who dream of building the future: “The future doesn’t build itself.”
Jay Fajardo’s most powerful lesson has nothing to do with code, and everything to do with the courage to start, the wisdom to listen, and the perseverance to lead with purpose. For anyone navigating the unpredictable path of entrepreneurship, his message is clear: you already have what it takes—now you just have to believe it.
