What does it take to build a world-class startup ecosystem?
Rodney Fong's answer starts with connection.
As President & CEO of the San Francisco Chamber of Commerce, he brings together founders, established businesses, policymakers, finance, technology, and the broader community - helping turn San Francisco’s density of talent into opportunity.
Through YES SF, the Chamber hosts 300+ events a year, creating a physical hub where ideas, industries, and people can collide.
Rodney’s philosophy is simple:
Put ambitious people in the same room. Make it easier to build. Give new ideas room to grow.
🎙️ Rodney A. Fong, President & CEO, San Francisco Chamber of Commerc on Fondo START with Guest Host: Grace Gong, Founder @ Smart Venture Media
01:01 SF Tech Week
01:48 the Chamber’s role and history
02:10 How YES SF connects founders and businesses
03:31 San Francisco’s comeback
04:50 Why SF’s talent density matters
06:10 YES SF’s 300+ annual events
06:53 Why this startup cycle feels different
07:35 A sea urchin startup idea
08:33 Robotics and everyday automation
09:13 The human side of technology