The Reality of Startup Success: Education Matters

Have you heard of the stereotype that successful startup founders typically drop out of school to pursue their business ventures? In reality, this is just an idealized image. Let's look at the data on "unicorns" (startups valued at $1 billion or more and privately owned) in the USA from 1997 to 2019. Surprisingly, only 4% of founders left their education, while the rest hold doctoral degrees, MBAs, master's, or at least bachelor's degrees.

The majority of American unicorn founders are graduates of prestigious institutions like Stanford, Harvard, MIT, and Berkeley. Besides providing education, these universities offer a powerful network that proves invaluable in the business world.

The notion of the college dropout turned billionaire entrepreneur is a popular one, perpetuated by stories of tech moguls who left classrooms to change the world. However, when we examine the facts, a different narrative unfolds.

Data Insights: 

Examining the data on unicorns in the United States from 1997 to 2019, a mere 4% of founders chose to forego formal education. The vast majority, a staggering 96%, completed their academic journeys. 

Contrary to the dropout stereotype, founders are predominantly holders of advanced degrees. They are doctors, MBAs, master's degree holders, or, at the very least, bachelor's degree graduates. 

The educational pedigree of founders often includes prestigious institutions like Stanford, Harvard, MIT, and Berkeley. These universities not only provide a solid education but also establish a robust network that proves instrumental in the entrepreneurial journey.