[mailshanx]

But doesn't a huge part of the problem stem from geography? Like you, i'm finishing up my Masters in Singapore - that is pretty much on the opposite side of the globe as SV. Surely i can't afford to go flying around to SV conferences as a student. I'll be speaking at a few conferences in Europe this summer, but still, i feel that if you are not located at least in the USA, you are missing out on a huge piece of startup action...

[joonix]

Stay in Singapore. Build something for an Asian, or African, market.

Am I the only one who cringes when reading stories like this about the Valley? I do not want to be in a bubble. I do not want to take part in gossip or the popularity contest. I would much rather stay under the radar, out of the sights of competition, in an underserved market.

[pathy]

That is very true, it is unrealistic for us to travel to SV to just socialize. Speaking at conferences seems like a great way to build a reputation and get to meet people. If only I had something to speak about that would interest people... :)

We do miss out a lot of startup action but there are still large startups in Europe, and I assume Singapore. I do think making connections via HN/Twitter etc can mitigate some of the issues caused by geography but not entirely.

Talking to people in your industry (especially if your speciality is quite niche) goes a fairly long way. Perhaps someone in your niche went to your alma mater, or lived in Singapore - that is something in common that can spark a conversation.

[physcab]

I live in San Francisco. Its an awesome city and I love living here, but it is by no means a prerequisite to starting a successful business. People have problems everywhere that need solving.