Stanford: A Starting Point
Spending a few weeks in Silicon Valley might sound like a dream. Also for us, it wasn’t about networking or taking a tour of tech giants. It was part of the Stanford Ignite Ukraine program — a business education experience that combines world-class knowledge with deep immersion into the Stanford and Bay Area ecosystem.
“We analyzed the Bay Area market and explored opportunities for deeper collaboration. Since it’s a global AI hub, being present here is strategically important for us.” — Dmitry Sofyna, CEO WINSTARS.AI
The program gave us more than we expected. Sure, there were lectures from Stanford professors, team projects, and final presentations. But the real value came from being in an environment where technology isn’t theory — it’s daily reality.
Over the course of a few weeks, we had more than 50 meetings with people deeply involved in AI, cybersecurity, and venture capital. Not all of them were flashy or formal, but nearly every one offered clear insight into how U.S. companies think, make decisions, and assess risks.
We visited offices like Google, Microsoft Security, and Salesforce, and took part in conversations with entrepreneurs and experts — from startup founders to former Google VPs and investors. These were not just learning moments, but real glimpses into how this ecosystem functions.
After conversations like these, your understanding of scale — and what’s really worth building — evolves.— Dmitry Sofyna
From inspiration to real steps
Ideas are great — but we wanted this experience to translate into action.
After returning home, we’ve already started the process of opening a WINSTARS.AI office in San Francisco. It’s not a one-day move, but we’ve engaged consultants, initiated key partnerships, and are planning follow-up visits to build a local team and presence.
Being present in the U.S. isn’t just important — it’s essential. Decisions are made here, and we want to be at the table, not just in the inbox. — Dmitry Sofyna
Beyond the business value, this trip helped us feel the strength of the Ukrainian tech community abroad. We’ve made connections, built relationships, and started discussing ways to collaborate with other founders in the U.S.
We’re deeply grateful to the Stanford Graduate School of Business, UCU, UCU Business School, and the Ideas Center for the opportunity, support, and trust.
We’re also thankful to everyone who took the time to talk, share thoughts, and offer feedback.
This experience has already shaped our thinking and direction.
We move forward not just as a Ukrainian company — but as part of a global tech market.