The FDE model: delivery that starts with the customer’s problem
Forward Deployed Entrepreneurs sit with real customers, understand real constraints, and use DNY infrastructure to deliver solutions that actually get deployed.
From problem to deployment
Embed
Work alongside the customer to understand processes, data and constraints.
Shape
Define a use case with measurable outcomes and a governance plan.
Prove
Build a pilot on DNY infrastructure — AI, physical devices or both.
Deploy
Harden for production with security, monitoring and support.
Scale or spin out
Extend across sites, or incubate a repeatable solution as a venture.
Where it is used
- Physical AI pilots — drones, robots, vision
- Industry AI projects in construction, logistics and trade
- Enterprise agent deployments
Boundaries
- FDE engagements are scoped and contracted per project.
FDE Model — common questions
What is an OPC?
OPC stands for Office + AI Agents: a local business node that combines a physical workspace, AI agent capabilities and market connections, so small teams can deliver like larger organisations. It is not a conventional co-working space.
What is an FDE?
FDE stands for Forward Deployed Entrepreneur: a delivery role that works directly on a real customer problem in the field, combining industry knowledge with DNY infrastructure to move a solution from proof of concept to deployment.
Where does the OPC + FDE network operate?
Sydney is the first node. Auckland is the expansion direction for the New Zealand network.