About the Realistic Optimist

Thesis

The Realistic Optimist is a paid publication covering the recently-globalized startup scene.

It was founded and is still written by Timothy Motte.

The Realistic Optimist's website is organized by region, but readers can filter by sector in the search bar (picture below).

Testimonials

The Realistic Optimist is read by top VCs:

Robin Butler, partner @Sturgeon Capital

“The Realistic Optimist plays a vital role in shining light on underreported and underappreciated startup ecosystems in emerging markets.”

Tamer Azer, partner @Shorooq Partners

"It's nice to have an intellectual debate process that produces an outcome that adds value to folks in the ecosystem. Something that goes beyond funding announcements."

Kalsoom Lakhani, GP @i2i Ventures

“The Realistic Optimist makes you realize that there is potential and innovation happening in some of the hardest places in the world. I always learn so much, and am a happy loyal reader.”

Adrian Garcia-Aranyos, president @Endeavor

“Reading the Realistic Optimist allows me to better understand, via firsthand perspectives, some of the markets we aren’t in (yet) and want to understand more of. It also allows me to complement my view on markets in which we are active.”

Ezzeddin Zahzah, program director @500 Global

“The Realistic Optimist'’s content is incredibly informative and insightful, providing valuable perspectives for both investors and founders navigating the dynamic world of venture capital."

Ethical disclosure

The Realistic Optimist has never received remuneration from sponsors nor any company covered in any article. The publication is editorially independent and doesn’t have investors.

Its founder, Timothy Motte, worked on a consulting mission for Digital Africa during the first half of 2024. In September, Tim attended an EU-funded event with Blackbox, for which Blackbox paid for his transportation and housing.

Tim focuses on not letting these external commitments influence the Realistic Optimist's content. If it feels like it does, do reach out.