The kind of product I want to build (and why I’m not pursuing a sensible opportunity)
One thing I want to write more of is how I actually make decisions as a founder. Not just the outcomes, but the tradeoffs, doubts, and reasoning behind them.
This question about Jobcenter vouchers and AZAV certification comes up repeatedly in my business.
What if I partner with the Jobcenter / Arbeitsagentur so clients can use their voucher to pay for my program?
On paper, it looks like a smart move: less financial friction for clients, external validation, and institutional credibility. As I looked into it, however, it was clear that the incentives don't match the kind of company I want to build — one that optimizes for real outcomes, speed of learning, and direct accountability to customers, not procedural compliance.
I’m sharing this here because it captures the kind of founder I want to become, and the kind of company and product I want to build.
Below is the original post from my business blog.
Can I Use a Jobcenter / Arbeitsagentur Voucher to Pay for Your Program? (And Why I’m Not AZAV-Certified)
I’ve been asked this enough times that I finally looked into it.
My current understanding:
- AZAV accreditation (certification to deliver government-funded job-search programs in Germany) is required to accept AVGS vouchers
- Getting accredited typically takes 6-9 months and €5k to €15k.
I considered it seriously for three reasons:
- It would reduce financial stress for clients while job searching
- External accreditation sounds like it could add legitimacy
- I wondered whether certification will help me enforce quality and build a better program
After looking into it, I've decided not to pursue AZAV at least for now.
My reasons:
- The quality AZAV enforces is compliance-driven, not outcome-driven.
- My clients’ results, case studies, and referrals are stronger proof than a logo.
- The time and energy required would be better spent improving the program and helping clients succeed.
This also aligns with advice I often give clients:
Real Experience + Proof of Results > Certificates
...especially with discerning employers.
If you’re AZAV-accredited or have hands-on experience with it, I’d love to hear your perspective.
What did I get wrong? What am I missing?