<ul data-eligibleForWebStory="true">Meta's $15 billion bet on Scale AI positions it at the core of AI's future by owning the infrastructure that powers AI systems.Early believers like Peter Thiel's Founders Fund and others bet on quiet, foundational layers of tech for long-term compounding returns.Investments in infrastructure like AWS, Snowflake, and Nvidia's GPUs led to outsized returns as these technologies became essential.Microsoft and OpenAI's early strategic moves in foundational tech have resulted in significant value creation.Lessons include backing foundational shifts early, embracing complexity, practicing patience for compounding returns, and controlling critical layers.Early access to talent and insights in emerging infrastructure spaces can provide hidden advantages for both investors and founders.Success in tech, especially AI, comes from spotting opportunities early, taking risks, and holding through uncertainty.The article emphasizes the importance of understanding and investing in foundational technologies for long-term success in the tech industry.It highlights the significance of early believers in shaping the future of technology by recognizing hidden opportunities.The examples provided underscore the value of identifying and supporting infrastructure-building companies for substantial returns.