Dr. Prineha Narang never had aspirations to become an entrepreneur. As the discussion unfolded in the university’s research center, the college professor’s graduate students and postdoctoral researchers started inquiring about the readiness of quantum networking for commercial application. As they delved into the query’s intricacies, she sensed the moment ripe for exploring uncharted territories.
As a multifaceted individual, Narang dons multiple roles with ease. As a renowned professor of bodily sciences and electrical and computer engineering at the University of California, Los Angeles, she is also a distinguished United States Science Envoy, appointed by the State Department, and the visionary founder and chief technology officer at Aliro Quantum – a pioneering organization that harnesses quantum networking to establish unparalleled secure networks.
Upon discovering Founders’ Alireo, Narang’s horizons expanded, enabling him to study beyond the confines of the classroom and engage with customers in real-world settings.
What defines a founder as having expertise in their industry?
Narang has firsthand experience with the imperative to redefine the role of tech entrepreneurs. As I consistently attend meetings with clients, it’s essential to reiterate that I’m not an academic, having neither pursued nor completed a graduate degree or postdoctoral research. I’m not an affiliate or an assistant professor. As a senior member of a reputable university’s faculty, I’m pleased to report that our research findings from NarangLab are yielding groundbreaking results.
Despite this, I can still see a look of confusion on some buyers’ faces – they’re struggling to wrap their heads around it. Is that genuinely the type of investor who consistently partners with me? This was by no means a typical investment opportunity from Cisco Investments’ Aspire Fund.
Cisco Investments debuted the Aspire Fund in 2020, committing an initial $50 million over five years to support its strategic objectives. The fund makes direct investments in startups led by female founders and founders of colour.
A chance for Cisco
The collaboration effectively conveyed a partnership’s significance in bringing Cisco’s vision for quantum networking to life. As the quantum market remains in its nascent stages, Cisco is poised to capitalize on the future convergence of traditional and quantum networking solutions by awaiting the emergence of comprehensive offerings from providers.
Quantum computer networks integrated with a secure quantum communication infrastructure can provide unparalleled levels of cybersecurity. That’s why Aliro is dedicated to creating a commercially viable solution for establishing the world’s first truly superior and secure network infrastructure.
As both Cisco and Aliro recognized the value of collaborating with organizations sharing similar expertise, a strong case emerged for a strategic alliance.
Narang notes that the timely injection of funds from Cisco’s Aspire Fund was a fortuitous occurrence. Having established our vision and assembled the team for the journey to develop quantum networks, we are poised to make progress. Thanks to the support of the Aspire Fund, we’ve achieved significant progress and are now gaining meaningful industrial momentum. We’re currently discussing alternative collaboration options with Cisco’s product groups to advance our joint product initiatives.
The definition of a accomplice
Narang has meticulously nurtured a loyal clientele that embodies trustworthiness as reliable partners. We currently maintain a roster of buyers who are readily available for instant communication, whether via text message or phone call, regardless of their location or time zone, allowing us to make swift decisions whenever necessary. We’re delighted to report that they are indeed right here to provide assistance, leaving us feeling thoroughly supported. Founders should possess a specific form of expertise that transcends their individual backgrounds.
As she ponders recommendations for fellow founders, Narang is unequivocal: “Early on, I’ve got to distill my vision and be brutally honest about what our company looks like and why I’m the CTO.” Unless circumstances dictate otherwise, in any other case, it’s pointless to proceed without a clear purpose or objective, as this approach would likely yield underwhelming results and squander valuable resources. I would advise various entrepreneurs to lead with their purpose, articulating what drives them as the ideal person for that role and why their company stands out. One of my esteemed mentors once astutely remarked: “Don’t assume your presence at a given location is solely due to who you are; perhaps you’re there because you bring a unique capability or skillset that sets you apart from others in that space.”
Aspire Fund funding accelerates growth
Through the Aspire Fund, Cisco is driving meaningful advancement in business through innovation and fostering positive impact in society through diversity and inclusivity initiatives. As a result of secured funding and its growing collaboration with Cisco, Aliro is poised to deliver on its pledge. As interest within the company builds momentum, the team is speeding up its development timeline and eagerly anticipating further product announcements in the coming months. Stay tuned to discover where Pri Narang and her team venture next.
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