The cost of innovation is plummeting, but the stakes have never been higher.

Software isn’t what it used to be. The DeepSeek moment isn’t just another AI leap—it’s a signal. Just like Moore’s Law drove hardware evolution, AI is rewriting the economics of software. The cost of building powerful intelligence is dropping, but the role of software is shifting faster than ever.

We're past the point where AI is a novelty. It’s creeping into every grain of decision-making, taking on responsibilities once reserved for humans. And that shift isn’t years away—it’s happening now. Companies can no longer wait to implement, because those who do will simply get left behind.

That’s why 2025 isn’t about hype. It’s about utility. Trusting systems to make decisions at scale requires laser focus on building quality, not chasing noise. At Builders, we’re sharpening that edge—engineering products that aren’t just smart, but reliable enough to earn trust.

Studio: The edge we’re engineering

We’ve always believed in designing the future, not waiting for it to arrive. This January, we leaned into intentional transformation:

• CTO-in-Residence: Bringing technical leadership in from day one, ensuring aligned vision and rapid execution. 🔗 LINK

• Bootcamp launch: A 4-week sprint to fast-track founder alignment, validate ideas, and build chemistry before full commitment. 🔗 LINK

• Ecosystem expansion: Our events are evolving into dynamic spaces for meaningful connections. 🔗 LINK

• Introducing Builders Navigators: Scaling groundbreaking ventures isn’t a solo sport. We officially launched the Builders Navigators Expert Network—a powerhouse of exited founders, operators, and investors offering hands-on expertise to our teams.

For a deeper look into our approach and the progress we’ve made, check out Builders Recap #6 — Building the Platform.

The result? A sharper studio model designed for speed and depth, without compromise.

Our ventures: Avery in action

This month’s spotlight: Avery, our hiring intelligence venture redefining how decisions are made. By turning scattered data into actionable insights, Avery helps teams hire faster and with more confidence.

Meanwhile, we welcomed Lei Li as our newest Entrepreneur-in-Residence. With her unique blend of creativity and AI, she’s shaping smarter, more personalized sales strategies. We’re excited to see what she builds next.

👀 What we’re reading:

• AI in the next decade: Why Founders Need to Rethink the Core of SaaS

• Tools we’re testing: AI-driven workflows for startup founders

• DeepSeek: A Wake-Up Call for the AI Industry

Let’s cut through the noise

AI isn’t the future—it’s the now. The cost of innovation is dropping, but the price of inaction is rising. We’re not here to chase trends. We’re here to build software that earns trust, drives real decisions, and pushes industries forward.

2025 isn’t about waiting. It’s about engineering the edge.

Let’s build something that matters.

Forward, always,

Michael van Lier
Managing Director at Builders