Eva is a role model and an inspiring example of what can be achieved through an international education at IMC Krems – combined with courage, perseverance and lifelong learning. This autumn, she will lead the new IMC Alumni Chapter for the San Francisco Bay Area and is looking forward to connecting with students, faculty and fellow alumni.
Story
IMC graduate founds company in Silicon Valley
From IMC studies to entrepreneurship in California
Eva Christine Reder laid the foundation for her international career with her bachelor degree in Export-oriented Management (now: International Business Management) at IMC Krems. Even during her studies, she was drawn to the world: semesters abroad in Malaysia and Latin America, internships at the Austrian Economic Chamber and SUHAKAM in Kuala Lumpur, and practical experience in the university’s student advisory service. This early blend of international exposure, intercultural competence and hands-on experience later gave her a decisive edge in Silicon Valley.
In 2015, Eva took the leap into the heart of the global start-up scene: San Francisco. She initially founded NomadApp – a travel app aimed at digital nomads. In 2016, she became co-founder of VentureLink Partners. This experience ultimately led to the launch of her current company: GrowthMasters – a data-driven marketing agency that supports international start-ups in scaling. With a globally distributed team of over 20 people, Eva demonstrates how to build remote, scalable and sustainable businesses – and that IMC alumni can thrive in Silicon Valley.
More than a business: community & innovation
Eva is far more than an entrepreneur. Since 2015, she has been a programme manager at Manos Accelerator – a start-up programme supported by Google Launchpad. She has mentored numerous founders, including through i5invest and Google Launchpad, and was even invited to speak by the US Department of State. In addition, she teaches at UC Berkeley Extension, where she shares her insights with aspiring founders. Her work highlights not only her innovative mindset but also her commitment to empowering others.
LinkedIn insights: GrowthMetrics & back-to-basics
On LinkedIn, Eva regularly analyses current trends in fundraising and startup growth. She shares insights such as: “Founders that are scrappy & resourceful continue to raise at the pre seed…” – showing just how important her analytical and data-informed approach is when advising founders. Her posts combine practical experience with strategic foresight, making her a sought-after voice in the international start-up ecosystem.
Back to Austria – Think global, act local
Despite her global career, Eva hasn’t forgotten her roots. In October, she returned to her former secondary school in Wels to talk about her journey to Silicon Valley, her approach to AI, and her experiences as a founder. Her message to the students was clear: set ambitious goals, commit to lifelong learning – especially in tech and AI – and embrace uncertainty. Success doesn't come overnight; it grows through perseverance and continuous development.
IMC Krems offers more than academic knowledge – it fosters entrepreneurial thinking, internationality, and personal initiative. Eva Christine Reder is a shining example of how alumni can take full advantage of these opportunities. Her story shows how openness, the right mindset and practical education can lead to global entrepreneurial success – and inspires others to think big.
Takeaways for (future) alumni
Those who, like Eva, are curious about the world and immerse themselves in different cultures and work environments during their studies, build a strong foundation for an international career. The ability to launch ventures in an agile, hands-on way – from idea to scale – is more valuable than ever. Eva’s path also highlights the importance of lifelong learning. She encourages others to keep developing their skills – especially in tech and artificial intelligence – to meet the challenges and seize the opportunities of a rapidly changing world.
Eva says: “I've met people from Stanford, Harvard, and so many top schools in the US and Europe. I'd say IMC Krems alumni are competitive with all of them: the mindset, the network, the opportunities. I'm always proud to be an alumna.”
Which modules or networks at IMC Krems proved most valuable for building your founder career in Silicon Valley?
For me, it was the combination of everything. I grew a lot through my time abroad. I remember seeing “Malaysia” on the internship list and thinking: “Wow? Really? I could actually do that? I can just say yes and move to Kuala Lumpur for six months?” That was one of the things I really loved about Krems.
Campus life was equally enriching, especially the exchange with international students through ESN. I also met a lot of motivated people from other degree programmes – I’m still in touch with some of them today.
If I had to name one course that stayed with me, it would be ABCT (Applied Business Computer Technologies). Our professor constantly emphasised how important Excel, PowerPoint and Word are. Back then I didn’t take it very seriously – now I know how right he was. You need these basics everywhere.
The Startup Bootcamp was also a defining moment. It wasn’t so much about the outcome, but about getting exposed to concepts like investor, pitch, or business model for the first time.
How did you personally manage to navigate a completely new start-up environment in the US – and what advice would you give Austrian founders considering the same step?
I was always fascinated by Silicon Valley. I’d already gained some startup experience in Vienna, and when I had the opportunity to join a programme in San Francisco, I said yes straight away.
My advice: just go for it. Many people are put off by the high cost of living, but there are ways. You can share a room, earn a bit on the side, live frugally, or just stay for a limited time – through a bootcamp, an exchange or a master’s degree.
The key is to get yourself into an environment where things are happening. You don’t need to know everything or be perfectly prepared. The energy alone will move you in the right direction.
You often emphasise the relevance of tech and AI skills: which additional abilities should students develop to be internationally competitive?
For me, it comes down to three things: First, identifying the real problem. Second, having the confidence to believe you can solve it – not out of arrogance, but with a clear mindset: “I’ll find a way.” And third, actually doing it. Sitting down and watching a YouTube tutorial on how to automate something will often take you further than 90% of your peers. It’s not complicated, but it takes initiative.
Many people don’t fail because they lack knowledge – but because of their mindset. They wait for permission instead of taking action. That’s what makes the difference: if you’re willing to learn, test, and implement, you’ll always be ahead in a world of constantly evolving tools. AI is just a tool. The real skill is understanding a problem – and then building a solution with courage and pragmatism.
What keeps you going during tough times – are there any rituals, people or thoughts that motivate you to stay on course?
I always say entrepreneurship is the best personal development programme out there. It pushes you to your limits – mentally, emotionally, sometimes physically – and teaches you a lot about yourself. For me, it’s important to know my triggers. When I catch myself spiralling into negative thoughts, it helps to remind myself: I’ve been here before, and it passes. Then I deliberately do something that helps me reset. Sport is a big part of that – a yoga class, a course, something that gets me out, seeing people, and back into my body.
I also need time with people outside the startup world. Family, nature – just switching off. That really grounds me.
