Meet Debora Kocak
Deb, a seasoned lawyer, is the founder of Granton, a consultancy aiding startups in grants, R&D incentives, and accelerators. She's already helped 50+ clients, securing over $6 million in grants. With a background in web2 startups, Deb transitioned into web3 as COO of Move to Earn App PUML in 2021. There, she spearheaded a token launch, crafted NFT collections, forged web3 partnerships, and implemented AI automation. Deb's expertise spans the dynamic realms of law, grants, and emerging technologies.
Unlocking Web3: A Conversation with Debora on Navigating the Crypto Frontie
In this interview, we sit down with Debora, a dynamic force in the Web3 and crypto space. She shares her insights on must-follow industry figures, pivotal career resources, and her bold vision for the future of Web3. Join us as we delve into her remarkable journey and the projects that have defined her path.
Debora, can you share with us who are your must follows in the industry to stay up to date?
"To keep up date I I religiously read a few email newsletters called: The Kingzletter, The Rundown AI, and You Probably Need a Robot. On Twitter, love the updates from Blockstars and my good friends @ReneeLouise.eth, @kosyonchain, and @shesblocksavvy."
What resources were pivotal in starting your career in crypto?
"The number 1 thing that has helped me get to where I am today is my ability to network and work a room. Practicing social skills and learning how to network properly has been the best and most useful resource. I am not the best at using social media, it drives me crazy. But since I was young, I practiced two things: Growing my confidence, and improving my abilities to have good conversations. Being curious is the most useful in achieving both. Curiosity grows your skills, knowledge, and appreciation for individual stories. As a result of your increased curiosity, you will become better at asking questions that drive good conversations and grow your network. The bigger your network, the bigger your career gets."
Everyone's talking about Web3. What’s your bold take on its future?
"I am a HUGE believer that Web3 will continue to grow and take over, especially as people start to value their independence and freedom. Web3 will be in all aspects of our lives - it is definitely not going anywhere and will grow tremendously as it gets more accessible/less confusing to use/safer - I personally am really excited about what web3 will do in the entertainment space. From opening up different opportunities to earn royalties by being part of film/music/art projects to keeping track of fanbases, there's lots to be excited about. Oh... and I'm definitely HODLing BTC because what if it goes to a milly right? #SupplyandDemand."
You've been involved in some amazing projects. Is there one that stands out for you?
"A project I am super proud of is PUML Better Health - I had the pleasure of working with the team in the middle of a bull and bear market, launching a token, selling NFT collections, partnering with major exchanges, attending major conferences and so much more. The launches were extremely challenging and became incredible learning experiences on how web3 projects can tackle failing market conditions, community (or the lack thereof), timing/marketing, partnerships (and choosing the right ones at the right time, ensuring a win-win situation), and so much more. Web3 is a rollercoaster and a very bumpy one at times. But the team's ability to navigate the rough times was what I am most proud of."
What excites you the most about working in the Web3 space?
"I always told myself that I wanted to "work on the future" and to be where innovation was. Web3 excites me as it is changing so fast. There is so much innovation, and a thirst for more. As someone who works with innovators/entrepreneurs/early-stage founders to get them grants and R&D tax incentives, Web3 is the space that I currently see as a Blue Ocean. There are so many problems to solve, processes to improve, and unique functionalities to create. There is also something about the Web3 community that is so vibrant and fun... we sure know how to party too! I think it must be because we all feel in our belly that we are working on something special that 95% or more of the world still has no idea about. I love that feeling. Knowing that I am part of something that is going to take the world by storm. That's what being at the forefront of innovation is all about."
What do you find to be the most challenging aspect of working in Web3, and how do you navigate these challenges?
"The most challenging part has to be the unpredictability of the whole industry. One day it feels like all dominos are placed in the right place, regulation in one country will improve in our favour, token charts will be on the up, and then the next, the complete opposite happens. I realised pretty quickly that if we focus on the rollercoaster, we lose track of what the aim really is, which is to build great products. Web3 can feel very 'fast money' and I think that is a distraction. Focusing on what the markets are doing and making decisions based on that is a quick way to losing focus, launching products to try and time it right, and adding features just because it's the 'hot' thing at that time. Stay focused. Keep building. Ignore the noise and put those blinders on."
What advice would you give to other women aspiring to enter and make an impact in the Web3 industry?
"My biggest advice would be: 1. Double down on what skills you have in the web2 space - i.e. I was a lawyer and had my own startups so I brought my business/legal skills to open doors. You'll find work if you can solve problems or open doors for projects. 2. Learn the web3 space by watching Youtube/using the tools - I can't stress this enough... You have to know how to use Metamask/Other Wallets and send/receive crypto, buy NFTs, interact with different chains, follow people on twitter and start learning the language, etc - Just learn what you can so that you're not a noob. It will come in handy, trust me! 3. Network network network - attend web3 conferences and just talk to people. You'll also get to know what's in demand. Be curious and get people to talk more than you.... Summarised heaps of networking books there with that one sentence. 4. If you want to create your own project, then don't let gender hold you back. Us women we put way too much focus on that stuff and it's just limiting. And if you want to see if any grants are available for you, then reach out :-). "
Debora's journey through the ever-evolving Web3 landscape serves as a testament to the power of networking, adaptability, and a relentless pursuit of knowledge. Her advice to aspiring women in the industry encapsulates the spirit of innovation and perseverance, offering a guiding light for those ready to make their impact in the world of Web3.