Backing Hardtech: A VC’s Perspective with Dipalo Ventures

In this episode of The Hardtech Podcast, hosts DeAndre Harakas and Grant Chapman sit down with Rafiq and Monica from Dipalo Ventures, a VC firm backing early-stage hard tech startups. They dive deep into what makes building in hard tech so different from the high cost of mistakes to the critical importance of user validation before a single part is built. The conversation explores why founders must clearly articulate why their product should exist, and how great ideas are only as strong as their execution. You’ll also hear honest insights about what investors really look for, the long road to market, and why collaboration across founders, engineers, and capital partners is the only way to win in this space. If you're building or backing real-world innovation, this episode is a must. Special Guests: Monika Razdan and Rafiq Ahmed.