Mariama Boumanjal works with Google for Startups across EMEA, partnering with VCs, governments, and ecosystem operators to support founders through programs like the Black Founders Fund. In this conversation, we discuss why diversity drives innovation, how AI is changing startups, and what characteristics separate successful founders from everyone else.

Key topics we cover:

• What major tech companies look for in founders
• Why diversity is a competitive advantage
• How AI is reshaping the startup landscape
• Building strategic partnerships globally

🎙️Hosted by Zivile Einikyte:

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🎵 Music by Luca Nioi: 

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Chapters

00:00 Human-Centric Approaches in Technology

02:46 Diversity and Inclusion in Entrepreneurship

05:33 The Journey into Entrepreneurship

08:18 Empowering Underrepresented Founders

10:53 The Impact of AI on Startups

13:30 Characteristics of Successful Founders

15:55 Google for Startups: Differentiation and Value

18:50 Supporting Local Businesses and Community Impact