pay-it-forward mentality

Definition

The cultural expectation in startup ecosystems that successful entrepreneurs and investors should help newcomers, supposedly creating a virtuous cycle. In practice, it's often networking disguised as altruism.

Example Usage

The accelerator promoted a pay-it-forward mentality, connecting alumni with current cohorts for advice and intros.

Origin

Borrowed from general philanthropy concepts, became startup culture dogma in the 2000s

Fun Fact

Pay-it-forward mentality works great until you realize everyone wants to have coffee with you and nobody's buying your product.

Source: Startup ecosystem and culture terminology

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