In my most recent interview, I had the pleasure of speaking with Tyler Sahib, the dynamic entrepreneur behind Scale Plus and Seoul Startup Club. Tyler's journey from Connecticut to Korea, driven by a passion for cross-cultural experiences and education, has positioned him as a key player in the startup ecosystem. 

His exposure to various cultures shaped his entrepreneurial spirit and led him to Korea, where he launched his newest startup. Despite initial language barriers, Tyler quickly immersed himself in the Korean business landscape, continually striving to improve his Korean language skills to enhance his success.

The Genesis of Scale Plus

Scale Plus was born out of Tyler’s own challenges and those of other non-Korean entrepreneurs trying to establish businesses in Korea. Recognizing the need for a platform that simplifies cross-border expansion, Tyler created Scale Plus to assist startups in entering new markets and connecting service providers with global customers.

"Scale Plus simplifies cross-border expansion for businesses, helping startups enter new markets and enabling service providers to reach global customers," Tyler explained. The platform addresses critical needs such as finding English-speaking lawyers and accountants, making it a crucial resource for foreign entrepreneurs in Korea. Within just a few months of its launch, Scale Plus has seen significant traction and has been accepted into various accelerator programs, further validating its value.

Seoul Startup Club: A Thriving Community

Seoul Startup Club, another brainchild of Tyler, started as a small community of entrepreneurs sharing resources and supporting each other. It quickly grew to over 1,500 members across various platforms, including Instagram and LinkedIn. The club offers a range of services, from coaching on business plans and pitch decks to providing workspace and podcast studios.

Tyler’s dedication to fostering a supportive community is evident in the club’s rapid growth and the tangible benefits it offers its members. "We wanted to provide sustainable, tangible tools that will not go away after an event or a one-time advice," Tyler emphasized.

The Startup Ecosystem in Korea

Reflecting on the startup ecosystem in Korea, Tyler noted significant changes since his arrival, driven by new government initiatives and a push for globalization. These efforts are partly a response to Korea's declining population, aiming to attract foreign talent and innovation to sustain economic growth.

"The focus now is on globalization and bringing talents to Korea, while also sending Korean startups to other markets," Tyler remarked. Scale Plus plays a crucial role in this by lowering the barriers for startups to enter and thrive in the Korean market.

Closing Thoughts

Tyler Sahib's work with Scale Plus and Seoul Startup Club exemplifies the power of community and innovation in overcoming challenges. His vision of creating a global ecosystem that supports startups and fosters cross-border collaboration is both inspiring and essential in today's interconnected world.

For those looking to expand their business into Korea or seeking global clients, Tyler’s message is clear: "Join us at Scale Plus and be part of a global community that thrives on mutual support and financial growth."

It was a pleasure speaking with Tyler and learning about his journey and initiatives. His efforts are not only contributing to the growth of the startup ecosystem in Korea but also setting a benchmark for global collaboration. So, until next time...