Eric Green, Founder of VYLN, On How to Build & Fund Your Dream

The Genesis of an Entrepreneur

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Eric Green’s entrepreneurial spirit ignited at a young age. Growing up in Delaware, he had an innate drive to solve problems creatively. His early ventures included selling T-shirts at basketball games and launching a digital marketing company in high school. He even worked with Floyd Mayweather’s The Money Team, managing their digital network. However, it was at Howard University, an HBCU known for its vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem, that Eric truly honed his business acumen.

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At Howard, Eric deepened his understanding of startups and venture-building. He immersed himself in the world of business development, networking with investors, and refining his approach to innovation. This foundation set the stage for what would become VYLN, a company dedicated to revolutionizing audio technology.

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The Birth of VYLN: From Gaming to Audio Innovation

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Initially, VYLN started as EMU Gaming, a company focused on cross-platform communication tools for gamers. The core product allowed users to start chat parties, integrate game audio seamlessly, and enhance multiplayer communication across different platforms like PlayStation, Xbox, and PC. However, through extensive market research and customer feedback, Eric realized that his technology had applications far beyond gaming.

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This realization led to a pivotal moment: rebranding and expanding VYLN’s mission to encompass multiple industries, including podcasting, music production, corporate communications, and hybrid education. The core technology—a device enabling multiple live audio inputs to merge into one seamless output—became a game-changer.

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By integrating AI capabilities, VYLN enhanced its offerings to include automated meeting transcriptions, engagement tracking, and short-form content generation. This technology, which initially aimed to improve gaming experiences, evolved into a comprehensive solution for professionals in media, education, and business.

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The Tough Decisions: When to Pivot and When to Leap

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One of the key themes in Eric Green’s story is the importance of making "very necessary decisions." Transitioning from a stable job at BlackRock to running VYLN full-time was not an easy choice. Like many entrepreneurs, Eric faced financial uncertainties and the pressure of sustaining himself while building a company.

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He advises aspiring founders: "Before you leap, understand your necessities. Make sure you have a way to sustain yourself, and if you have responsibilities, ensure they are covered."

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Another crucial decision was expanding VYLN’s focus beyond gaming. While pivoting can be emotionally challenging—especially when a founder is deeply attached to their original vision—Eric understood that adaptability is key to survival. By embracing change, he positioned VYLN for a much broader market, increasing its potential for long-term success.

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Funding the Dream

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Eric’s ability to secure funding is one of the most impressive aspects of his journey. He has participated in nearly 30 pitch competitions, winning 14. He has also been part of numerous startup accelerators and venture programs, including:

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• Black Ambition (Founded by Pharrell Williams)
• Harvard Innovation Labs
• 10X Beta Studio
• AWS Startups
• Newchip Startup Accelerator
• HBCU Founders Initiative
• Black Venture Capital Consortium

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These programs provided invaluable resources, mentorship, and funding, helping Eric scale VYLN while gaining access to influential networks.

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Eric’s secret to getting accepted into top-tier accelerators? Understanding what each program values. Before applying, he researches the organization’s focus areas, ensuring his pitch aligns with their goals. Additionally, he emphasizes clarity and market potential in his presentations.

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"You need to have a large total addressable market (TAM)," he explains. "A venture-backable company needs a market big enough to justify investor interest. If your TAM is too small, it's hard to attract funding."

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Overcoming Challenges: The Reality of Corporate Promises

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Despite his success, Eric has also encountered setbacks, including broken corporate promises. In the wake of the Black Lives Matter movement, several major corporations pledged millions to underrepresented founders. However, in many cases, these initiatives failed to deliver.

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One program in particular promised $250 million in funding for Black entrepreneurs, yet only $15,000 was distributed before the initiative was quietly discontinued. This situation highlights an ongoing issue in the startup ecosystem—while diversity initiatives gain public attention, many fail to follow through with meaningful action.

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Eric’s advice is to keep pushing forward. Instead of relying solely on external funding, he focuses on building a sustainable business model and diversifying revenue streams through both hardware sales and subscription-based software services.

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Key Takeaways from Eric Green’s Journey

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• Fall In Love with the Problem, Not Just The Solution.
  
  • Eric emphasizes the importance of problem-solving over product loyalty. By focusing on the core need—seamless audio integration, VYLN was able to pivot successfully into new industries.

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• Make Strategic Pivots When Necessary
  
  • While gaming was the original market, expanding into podcasting, education, and corporate communications allowed VYLN to reach a larger audience.

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• Secure Funding Through Multiple Channels
  
  • Eric’s success in pitch competitions and accelerators shows the importance of seeking diverse funding sources. Whether through venture capital, grants, or strategic partnerships, founders should explore all options.

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• Plan for Exit Strategies Early
  
  • Many startups fail because founders don’t think about the end game. Eric learned from mentors at Harvard Innovation Labs that having a clear exit strategy—whether through acquisition, IPO, or scaling sustainably—is crucial.

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• The Startup World is Not as Glamorous as It Seems
  
  • From balancing a corporate job while building VYLN to facing setbacks from corporate pledges, Eric’s journey proves that entrepreneurship is full of highs and lows.

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• AI and Emerging Tech Are Non-Negotiable
  
  • Recognizing the power of AI and automation, VYLN integrated machine learning capabilities to enhance user experiences and streamline workflows.

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What’s Next for VYLN?

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With a strong foundation, Eric Green is focused on scaling VYLN into a leading force in the audio tech industry. He is expanding corporate partnerships, improving AI-driven features, and exploring new markets. His ultimate vision? To reshape how people experience audio across industries, making communication seamless and intuitive.

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For aspiring entrepreneurs, Eric’s story serves as a blueprint for navigating the unpredictable startup landscape. His journey is proof that with the right mindset, strategic decisions, and relentless pursuit of innovation, building an industry-changing company is possible.

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Check out Eric Green’s work here:

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Website: https://vyln.tech/

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