Get to Know Waymakers and Our Approach
In a funding-constrained world, execution and profitable growth are key. Our approach combines strategic investment with hands-on guidance from seasoned tech executives.
Building the Future of AI
We bridge the gap between AI innovation and responsible scaling, connecting driven founders with seasoned operators who balance mission with profitable growth.
The Scaling Challenge
Over 700+ accelerators focus on getting founders from idea to MVP—but what happens after that first milestone?
Most founders quickly discover a critical gap:
- Few platforms truly support profitable scale (1 → N).
- Growth-stage needs—like operational excellence and scaling strategy—often go unmet.
- Advice alone isn’t enough, founders need experienced operators who can execute alongside them.
The AI Rush Problem
Most AI companies rush to market without considering long-term viability. When the gold rush is over, survivors will be the ones that build with the future in mind from the start.
The Waymakers Accelerator
We focus exclusively on deep, vertical AI applications that solve real-world challenges.
We fill the gap others leave behind:
- Bringing execution muscle where others offer only advice
- Prioritizing responsible scaling at all costs
- Helping founders retain control while accessing world-class expertise
Responsible Innovation Wins
We build alongside founders in real time, creating an ecosystem where companies are designed to last with sustainable business models.
Our Team
Meet the experts driving our mission forward
Lakshmi Nidamarthi is a builder and executive leader with over two decades scaling global businesses and launching world-class products at Fortune 50 companies—including Alexa, Kindle, Frustration-Free Packaging, and building and scaling marketplaces. She brings deep operational experience across technology, product, design, and cross-functional leadership to turn ambitious ideas into profitable, high-impact businesses.
A C-suite executive with experience leading, building & scaling some of the world’s most innovative organizations across multiple sectors including healthcare and philanthropy. She is CEO of Imaginal Leadership Strategies, a management advisory firm that works with public & private firms. Executive roles include COO at the Gates Foundation and VP/Global Head at Genentech. She chairs the Fred Hutch Cancer Center board and serves on two life science boards.
An entrepreneur, strategist, and educator who founded Artemis Connection to work with forward-thinking executives. Former McKinsey Engagement Manager and Stanford GSB alumna who serves as lecturer at both Stanford and the University of Washington. Her work has been featured in The Wall Street Journal and The Economist.
GC is a business development and finance professional in the gaming industry, specializing in supporting startup studios. He has helped studios secure funding and refine their products to reach the right audience. Most recently, he served as a consultant to the investment team at a AAA Japanese studio.
Why Work With Us
Bespoke, critical scale-stage support for AI companies navigating rapid growth, operational complexity, and scaling challenges.
Focus on Product Market Fit
Our Waymakers have endured—and succeeded—in the PMF process. Trusting their guidance lets founders cross the chasm straight to what users truly need.
Proven Go-to-Market Expertise
Waymakers help AI startups grow from first customers to market leadership, combining speed with responsible growth.
Operational Firepower to Scale
We bridge the gap between early traction and scale, equipping founders with operational strength most accelerators miss.
Do you want to join us?
We’re not actively hiring, but we’re always eager to meet exceptional people. If you’re passionate about shaping the future of AI and believe you can bring unique value to our mission, we’d love to hear from you.
Ready to Build AI Companies That Scale?
Whether you're a founder searching for a way to cross the chasm, an operator ready to build AI that matters, or an investor seeking companies built last—we're here to connect the right people at the right moment.
Let's explore growth together.