Terri Hanson Mead’s Post

As DC Palter and Terri Hanson Mead have experienced these challenges as being part of the VC and Angel Investing side of Life Sciences, we at SVA Life Sciences have also encountered too many early stage startups that have received generous VC & Seed funding but have no real plan to efficiently and effectively use it. Hiring talent, or more importantly these days deploying purpose-built, data-driven technology that won't deplete their funds, is key to preserving and stretching your capital investment. An eye towards scalability is critical, not to mention the use of AI. We at SVA call it finding the "Easy Button" from our years of experience helping companies on their Commercialization Journey. DM me to avoid adding to this frustrating experience, and let us help you find the early startup, Easy Button. #VCinvestingfrustrations #Seedstagedifficulties #SVALifeSciences #CommercializationJourney #EasyButton

My favorite piece of investing advice from Ben Sun: Don't focus on where the seed stage startup you're assessing will be in 10 years. Focus on whether it will raise a Series A in 18 months. It's always important to consider the long term, but startups change so much that you shouldn't get too hung up on it. However, if you can underwrite to a Series A much better than average, the downstream impacts can be profound. There's a reason why 20% of Ben's seed investments have gone on to reach unicorn status. (More in comments)

Sometimes it helps to be near-term rather than long-term. Unless you are a full-stack investor yourself and can fund all the way from seed to Late stage #venturecapital

An interesting discussion about funding sources for startups, particularly in these tough times we are currently facing. Most startups will however at some time consider to pitch to VCs for funding... 'At some time' is the keyword! VC's are there to support the risky phase (isn't it the reason why they are called venture!) between the seeding and initial years and the reaching of milestones showing that the company will be profitable in the near future. Mixing potential sources of funding and taking the time necessary to build trustful relationships with potential investors (of course including VCs) are critical, but of course a strong (scientifically and commercially) case is crucial.

There’s a growing conversation in the VC space about the importance of realistic valuations, and for good reason. In an insightful piece from TechCrunch, Elizabeth Yin of Hustle Fund discusses why startups should carefully consider valuation offers, rather than simply taking the highest one available. In a competitive funding landscape, it’s tempting to go for big numbers, but this can lead to high expectations and long-term challenges, both for founders and their teams. Our approach is centered on providing not just capital, but also strategic guidance and hands-on support to foster your growth by collaborating closely with entrepreneurs. If the topic peaks your interest, find the TechCrunch artilce here: https://lnkd.in/dgA--jJ2 #VC #StartupGrowth #Valuations #Innovation #Funding

https://lnkd.in/g7MmKSxM For folks in the pre-seed or seed stage, this #WallStreetJournal article is relevant to your fundraising. It defines #angel investing as an individual with check size $25k - $50k. This type of solo angels is being squeezed out by #VCs moving upstream to earlier stage startups. However, the Journal did not report on angel groups that can write larger check sizes by an order of magnitude. One conclusion that I agree with is that we (founders) are looking for intros, follow on capital, and share passion for our business from early investors.

the 3 most expensive types of capital: 1. cash flow mismanagement 'cleanup'. 2. equity capital into hyper early-stage startups. 3. 'debt capital' into $1-5m annual revenue businesses that aren't VC backed and have founders who don't want to (or can't) put down a personal guarantee.

Investing in early-stage startups is risky. Which is why angels or VCs are looking for outsized returns from a small percentage of their portfolio. They need to see the big dream and the potential for huge success. But it's not just about the dream. Post-2021, the capital environment has changed. Investors now look for founders who can execute in the short term. Proof points and a clear plan for immediate execution give them confidence that their money will be well-spent and that you won't need more funds soon after. So, here are two things I recommend startup founders focus on: 1. Showcase the Dream - Articulate the big idea and its potential impact. Make it compelling and show how it can deliver significant returns. 2. Demonstrate Short-Term Execution - Provide proof points that you can achieve short-term goals. Have a clear plan showing how you'll use the investment to reach immediate milestones. Make sure that you demonstrate a balance in both aspects. Your pitch should convey that you're not just a visionary but also a doer who can make things happen. #StartupFundraising #VentureCapital #AngelInvesting

Kapwa Capital’s “Empowering Diverse Angels” blog series continues with our most recent article "The Role of Angel Investors in the Startup Ecosystem" by our Venture Partner, Christina Vernali! Angel investors are vital in the startup ecosystem, offering more than just funding. They evaluate potential deals by assessing factors like the founder's pitch, team dynamics, market size, and business model. Successful angels not only provide early-stage capital but also mentorship, industry connections, and credibility that help startups grow. By supporting innovation and taking calculated risks, angel investors help shape the future of new ventures. At Kapwa, we focus on elevating startups from underserved communities, offering them the capital and support they need to thrive. Learn more by reading our article below! Maria Odiamar Racho, MSOD Christina Vernali Sam Vallagomesa Lakhi Siap Emily Hong John Serquina Cecilia H. Kendra Viloria #KapwaCapital #EmpoweringDiverseAngels #StartupFunding #InclusiveGrowth #UnderservedFounders https://lnkd.in/etuvv83H

Investing in Unlisted Space/startups is no FUN 1.      Companies go belly-up 2.      It’s a Highway with Exits far away 3.      Exits seldom come, and when they do – they are heavily discounted 4.      Cheques offered in fancy shows never hit the bank account of startups 5.      CEOs/Founders do dissipate investors’ money for their personal gains I wish I had only read about them and not experienced first-hand. It’s not shady in all parts……we have excellent committed founders driven by strong sense of purpose. Kudos to them and HUGE Respect. Startup Ecosystem/Unlisted space should offer more accountability and transparency to keep angels motivated. Newbies should stick to listed space as it offers more transparency and exits are a click away. We as investors participate in high risk investment avenues, but if there are no high gains, where is the fun quotient left? #angelinvesting #unlistedspace #startupinvesting