Investor Connect Podcast

Sizing the Market

Hello, this is Hall T. Martin with the Startup Funding Espresso -- your daily shot of startup funding and investing.

In diligencing the market, look for a market that is large and has strong growth potential.

If a new technology has spurred the growth of the market, then this may be a good time to invest.

Markets that are behind on the latest technology are ripe for growth.

The Total Available Market for venture-funded deals needs to be at least $1B in size.

This is referred to as the TAM, which is everyone who could ever buy your product.

The Service Available Market or SAM is the target market within your geographical area. 

The Beachhead Market is the first 20 customers you are targeting.

The TAM and SAM are top-down numbers you find through research.

The Beachhead Market is a bottoms-up number you find through your sales and marketing efforts.

The presence of competition verifies the market. If there are no competitors, then there’s most likely not a market there. 

The presence of acquirers is another key verifier of the market. If no one is buying companies in that market, then there’s no reason to build a business to be sold.


Thank you for joining us for the Startup Funding Espresso where we help startups and investors connect for funding.

Let’s go startup something today.
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For more episodes from Investor Connect, please visit the site at: http://investorconnect.org 

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Category:general -- posted at: 6:00am CDT

On this episode of Investor Connect, Hall welcomes Nasir Ali, Managing Partner at StartFast Ventures.

StartFast is an early-stage venture capital firm that invests in recurring revenue software businesses outside the major start-up hubs. StartFast Fund II invests at the Seed/A Round stages in B2B SaaS companies. Their geographic focus enables them to invest at attractive valuations; their companies can scale cost-effectively, and their exits command high return multiples. StartFast likes to invest in diverse teams with first-hand experience of the problems they are solving.

Nasir has been building a high-growth entrepreneurial ecosystem across Upstate New York for the past 18 years and investing as an early-stage VC since 2007. Nasir launched The Syracuse Technology Garden incubator in 2004, followed in 2007 by the Seed Capital Fund of CNY, Upstate NY’s first angel investor fund. In 2010, Nasir joined with TriNet founder Martin Babinec to form Upstate Venture Connect, a 501(c)(3) non-profit that has helped organize six angel funds in Upstate New York; built an online communications platform that reaches more than 15,000 startup community members; created the UNY50 Entrepreneur Leadership group; and established the Upstate Venture Ecosystem Awards.

Nasir also co-founded and is the Managing Director of StartFast Fund I, Upstate NY’s only private capital-backed startup accelerator program. Nasir’s 60 portfolio companies have raised over $300MM. He is a board member and highly sought out advisor to numerous entities including the NYS Innovation Venture Capital Fund, Next Gen Venture Partners, Fitzgate Ventures, and multiple portfolio companies. Nasir received his undergraduate degree in Physics from Princeton University. He also holds an MBA from Yale University and resides in Rochester, NY.

Nasir discusses the state of startup investing and his investment thesis. He advises investors and entrepreneurs and shares some of the challenges they face.

You can visit StartFast Ventures at www.startfastventures.com, on LinkedIn at www.linkedin.com/company/startfast/, and on Twitter at www.twitter.com/Start_Fast.  

Nasir can be contacted at nasir@startfastventures.com and nasir@uvc.org, and on LinkedIn at www.linkedin.com/in/snasirali/.

_____________________________________________________________________

For more episodes from Investor Connect, please visit the site at: http://investorconnect.org  

Check out our other podcasts here: https://investorconnect.org/ 
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Category:general -- posted at: 6:00am CDT

The A Team With the B Plan

Hello, this is Hall T. Martin with the Startup Funding Espresso -- your daily shot of startup funding and investing.

In funding startups, look for the A team working on the B plan.

In this situation, the team can clearly accomplish the task at hand because they’ve done it before and the task is not that hard.

The opposite of this is the team that has little experience and is now taking on a major new challenge.  

The A team makes for a better startup investment.

They know the market well and can see small changes coming up that will impact their business.

They know the industry players well and can contact them easily to form partnerships, recruit team members, and sell the product.

They work well together and have probably done for so many years.

The B project is very well-defined.

In diligencing startups, check to see how close the deal is to the A team working on a B project.


Thank you for joining us for the Startup Funding Espresso where we help startups and investors connect for funding.

Let’s go startup something today.
____________________________________

For more episodes from Investor Connect, please visit the site at: http://investorconnect.org 

Check out our other podcasts here: https://investorconnect.org/ 
For Investors check out: https://tencapital.group/investor-landing/ 
For Startups check out: https://tencapital.group/company-landing/ 
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Category:general -- posted at: 6:00am CDT

Financial Analysis

Hello, this is Hall T. Martin with the Startup Funding Espresso -- your daily shot of startup funding and investing.

In diligencing a startup, analyze the financial statements to understand the business better.

Here are key items to check:

  • Where does the revenue come from?
  • What could stop or halt the revenue?
  • How far is the company from profitability?
  • How much cash is on hand and, given the burn rate, how much runway is available?
  • What costs can be variablized down in case of a drop in business?
  • Check the accounts receivables to see how fast customers are paying their bills.
  • How much debt is on the balance sheet and what does it cost or when will it come due?
  • In each category, start with the big numbers and then work your way down.
  • For items that look out of the norm, ask the founder or CEO.
  • See how much the team knows about their numbers and if they have a strategy for improving them.


Thank you for joining us for the Startup Funding Espresso where we help startups and investors connect for funding.

Let’s go startup something today.
___________________________________

For more episodes from Investor Connect, please visit the site at: http://investorconnect.org 

Check out our other podcasts here: https://investorconnect.org/ 
For Investors check out: https://tencapital.group/investor-landing/ 
For Startups check out: https://tencapital.group/company-landing/ 
For eGuides check out: https://tencapital.group/education/ 
For upcoming Events, check out https://tencapital.group/events/ 

For Feedback please contact info@tencapital.group  

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Category:general -- posted at: 6:00am CDT

This is the Investor Connect Crowdfunding Launch Program. I'm Hall T Martin, the host of the show, in which we take questions from startups and investors on crowdfunding topics. 

I hope you enjoy this episode.
_______________________________

Thank you for joining us for the Investor Connect Crowdfunding Launch Program where we help startups prepare for a fundraise. 

For more episodes, please visit the site at: http://investorconnect.org  

Check out our other podcasts here: https://investorconnect.org/  
For Investors check out: https://tencapital.group/investor-landing/  
For Startups check out: https://tencapital.group/company-landing/  
For eGuides check out: https://tencapital.group/education/  
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Direct download: PODCAST_2022-02-23_TEN_Capital_Future_of_Funding_Series.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:00am CDT

Business Model Analysis

Hello, this is Hall T. Martin with the Startup Funding Espresso -- your daily shot of startup funding and investing.

The business model shows where the company incurs costs in order to generate revenue. 

In diligencing a startup, spend some time analyzing the business model to determine how robust and profitable it is.

Check the revenue to see how much is recurring, repeating, or one-off.

The more revenue that is recurring based on contracts, the stronger the cash flow. 

Check the costs for customer acquisition and lifetime value of customers, even if it’s not a recurring revenue business. 

There needs to be a healthy delta between the cost of acquisition and the total revenue from the customer. 

Revenue per customer should be at least 3X the cost of acquiring that customer. 

Map out the gross margins and profit margins of the current business and near-term projections.

The healthier the margins, the less funding the company will need to raise and the faster the company can reach profitability.

Check the overhead costs and any other regular expenditure to determine the capital efficiency of the business.

Finally, look for unusually high general and administrative expenses.


Thank you for joining us for the Startup Funding Espresso where we help startups and investors connect for funding.

Let’s go startup something today.
___________________________________

For more episodes from Investor Connect, please visit the site at: http://investorconnect.org 

Check out our other podcasts here: https://investorconnect.org/ 
For Investors check out: https://tencapital.group/investor-landing/ 
For Startups check out: https://tencapital.group/company-landing/ 
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Category:general -- posted at: 6:00am CDT

On this episode of Investor Connect, Hall welcomes Michael G. Hiles, Founder, and CEO at 10XTS.

10XTS helps capital markets participants leverage the emerging global decentralized capital market infrastructure. Their solutions are built upon XDEX, an institutional-grade asset tokenization platform and network that puts the power of holistic data ownership back into the hands of asset owners, securities issuers, and their investors.

Michael began his career in the early 1990s as a software developer for government information systems platforms. In 2000, Michael’s team won a Smithsonian Laureate Award for being the first to ever connect a judicial system to the worldwide web. He is regarded as an expert in information governance, risk, and compliance.

Michael discusses security token offerings, how to set up a fund, common mistakes people make, and more.

You can visit 10XTS at www.10xts.com, on LinkedIn at www.linkedin.com/company/10xts/, and on Twitter at www.twitter.com/go10xts/

Michael can be contacted at michael@10xts.com, on LinkedIn at www.linkedin.com/in/michaelhiles/, and on Twitter at www.twitter.com/michaelhiles

______________________________________________________________________

For more episodes from Investor Connect, please visit the site at: http://investorconnect.org  

Check out our other podcasts here: https://investorconnect.org/ 
For Investors check out: https://tencapital.group/investor-landing/ 
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Category:general -- posted at: 6:00am CDT

Due Diligence Mistakes

Hello, this is Hall T. Martin with the Startup Funding Espresso -- your daily shot of startup funding and investing.

There are several mistakes one can make in the due diligence process.

Here are a few points to check:

Focusing on every potential risk in the deal and not the primary risks.

In this case, diligence turns into a never-ending slog with no endpoint.

Many CEOs are successful entrepreneurs who did well elsewhere and are now working in a new area. 

The CEO must be experienced in the domain of the startup.  

Does the company have real traction in the market?

It’s often the case they have a few key customers who jump-started sales, but there’s no real momentum.

Will customers buy the product in sufficient numbers?

The market demand must be great enough to grow the business. 

Does the team have a focus on the exit strategy?

Make sure the team knows their exit and has a strong sense of it. 


Thank you for joining us for the Startup Funding Espresso where we help startups and investors connect for funding.

Let’s go startup something today.
___________________________________

For more episodes from Investor Connect, please visit the site at: http://investorconnect.org 

Check out our other podcasts here: https://investorconnect.org/ 
For Investors check out: https://tencapital.group/investor-landing/ 
For Startups check out: https://tencapital.group/company-landing/ 
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Direct download: Due_Diligence_Mistakes.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:00am CDT

The Risks in the Deal

Hello, this is Hall T. Martin with the Startup Funding Espresso -- your daily shot of startup funding and investing.

In diligencing a startup, focus on the key risks. Here’s a short list to review:

The team -- do they have the skills and will they remain committed to the company?

The market -- will the market continue to grow?

The competition -- will there be new competitors that come on the scene we did not count on?

The technology -- will the technology landscape change, obsoleting the company’s tech?

The funding -- will the company be able to continue to raise funding?

The intellectual property -- will your IP adequately protect your position in the market?

The regulatory environment -- will new regulations come up that negatively impact the company?

This often comes up in the life sciences space in which FDA regulations must be achieved.

Consider each of these risks in a potential investment.


Thank you for joining us for the Startup Funding Espresso where we help startups and investors connect for funding.

Let’s go startup something today.
___________________________________

For more episodes from Investor Connect, please visit the site at: http://investorconnect.org 

Check out our other podcasts here: https://investorconnect.org/ 
For Investors check out: https://tencapital.group/investor-landing/ 
For Startups check out: https://tencapital.group/company-landing/ 
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Direct download: The_Risks_in_the_Deal.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:00am CDT

On this episode of Investor Connect, Hall welcomes Stefano Gurciullo, Partner at Redstone VC.

Redstone is a Berlin-based venture capital firm managing multiple VC funds and working with corporate venture funds. They reinvented corporate venture capital through their VC-as-a-Service model, which connects industry leaders with ambitious founders.

Together with their industry partners, they activate corporate capital, knowledge, and network to support their entrepreneurs in growing their businesses. In addition to their investment service, they provide tailored intelligence that empowers partners to make better-informed strategic decisions and stay informed about future digital trends.

Redstone is run by experienced entrepreneurs and investors with deep roots in the German and European technology ecosystem. Their founding partners have built and advised some of Europe's largest technology companies over the last two decades.

Stefano leads the Future Industry Ventures, the firm’s industrial technology and sustainability fund. He invests in European entrepreneurs building solutions making manufacturing more energy-efficient, more secure, and decarbonised. Prior to Redstone, Stefano held various positions as a data scientist and investor in sustainable finance. He has also consulted public institutions such as the European Commission, UNDP, and EU Climate KIC at the intersection of technology and climate. Stefano holds a Ph.D. in Financial Computing from University College London, where, as a complex systems scientist, he worked on the use of data to understand and prevent financial and climate-related economic shocks. 

Stefano shares with Hall what excites him now and advises startups and investors. He discusses the state of startup investing and the biggest change he thinks we will see in the next 12-24 months.

You can visit Redstone VC at https://redstone.vc/, on LinkedIn at www.linkedin.com/company/redstone-venture-capital/, and on Twitter at www.twitter.com/redstonevc.

Stefano can be contacted at stefano@redstone.vc, on LinkedIn at www.linkedin.com/in/etste/, and on Twitter at www.twitter.com/etste

_____________________________________________________________________

For more episodes from Investor Connect, please visit the site at: http://investorconnect.org  

Check out our other podcasts here: https://investorconnect.org/ 
For Investors check out: https://tencapital.group/investor-landing/ 
For Startups check out: https://tencapital.group/company-landing/ 
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Direct download: Stefano_Gurciullo_of_Redstone_VC.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:00am CDT

Risks and Assumptions

Hello, this is Hall T. Martin with the Startup Funding Espresso -- your daily shot of startup funding and investing.

In diligencing a startup, it’s important to articulate the risks and the assumptions you have about the startup.

Start by identifying the risks in the deal.

The team, product, market, technology, and competition are key sources of risk. 

List out each one and what risks the company faces. Prioritize the most important at the top and list in descending order.

Write out the assumptions you are making about the deal. 

I find new information often comes to light through the due diligence process, so it’s important to track what you believe to be true about the deal.

Articulate the investment thesis for how this will become a successful investment and not just a successful company.

Writing out the investment thesis forces you to think it through more carefully.

Seeing it written out gives you a sanity check.

For the investment thesis, estimate the potential size of the company, the probability of success, and the return that can be achieved.

Will this become a billion-dollar company or just a few million dollars?

Are there a handful of competitors in the market or thousands?

Are the buyouts in the space in 9-figure exits, 8-figure exits, or less?

Writing out the risks and assumptions will help you gain a better understanding of the deal.


Thank you for joining us for the Startup Funding Espresso where we help startups and investors connect for funding.

Let’s go startup something today.
___________________________________

For more episodes from Investor Connect, please visit the site at: http://investorconnect.org 

Check out our other podcasts here: https://investorconnect.org/ 
For Investors check out: https://tencapital.group/investor-landing/ 
For Startups check out: https://tencapital.group/company-landing/ 
For eGuides check out: https://tencapital.group/education/ 
For upcoming Events, check out https://tencapital.group/events/ 

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Direct download: Risks_and_Assumptions.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:00am CDT

Key Factors in Diligence

Hello, this is Hall T. Martin with the Startup Funding Espresso -- your daily shot of startup funding and investing.

There are several factors to achieve success in running a due diligence process.

First, dedicate at least 20 hours to due diligence.  

Many investors dedicate less than 20 minutes.

Share your diligence findings with other investor groups in return for their findings.

Apply your skills and network to the process where possible.

Due diligence can be an endless game, so you need to prioritize your efforts.

Focus on the key risks in the deal.

Spend the majority of your time on the management team.  

This is the critical success factor in most startups.

Check the deal structure to make sure you understand it and how it works for you.

Make sure you talk with the users of the product.

Write out your findings and assumptions to refer back to later.  

Consider having the startup sign a Reps and Warranties contract for the diligence they provided.

This can give you recourse in the event key information was left out.


Thank you for joining us for the Startup Funding Espresso where we help startups and investors connect for funding.

Let’s go startup something today.
___________________________________

For more episodes from Investor Connect, please visit the site at: http://investorconnect.org 

Check out our other podcasts here: https://investorconnect.org/ 
For Investors check out: https://tencapital.group/investor-landing/ 
For Startups check out: https://tencapital.group/company-landing/ 
For eGuides check out: https://tencapital.group/education/ 
For upcoming Events, check out https://tencapital.group/events/ 

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Category:general -- posted at: 6:00am CDT

This is the TEN Capital AMA show. I'm Hall T. Martin, the host of the show in which we interview investors and founders on current topics. 

Our guest is:

Jeff Eversmann of Long View Technology Ventures

I hope you enjoy this episode.
________________________________

For more episodes from Investor Connect, please visit the site at: http://investorconnect.org 

Check out our other podcasts here: https://investorconnect.org/ 
For Investors check out: https://tencapital.group/investor-landing/ 
For Startups check out: https://tencapital.group/company-landing/ 
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Form C Disclosures for Crowdfunding

Hello, this is Hall T. Martin with the Startup Funding Espresso -- your daily shot of startup funding and investing.

Equity crowdfunding is a regulated fundraise by FINRA, the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority.

A company can raise up to $5M on equity crowdfunding.

Anyone can invest. Those who are not accredited investors are limited to $2,200 per year per company.

Those raising funding must file a Form C with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

The company raising funding must be based in the US.

The Form C requires the following information:

  • The biographies of officers and directors and anyone owning more than 20% of the company.
  • A description of the business and what it does.
  • How the raised funds will be used.
  • The method for calculating the price of the security.
  • The target fundraise amount and the deadline for raising it.
  • A description of the company’s financial condition.
  • Financial statements of the company.

In preparing for an equity crowdfunding raise, you’ll need to provide this information for compliance purposes.


Thank you for joining us for the Startup Funding Espresso where we help startups and investors connect for funding.

Let’s go startup something today.
___________________________________

For more episodes from Investor Connect, please visit the site at: http://investorconnect.org 

Check out our other podcasts here: https://investorconnect.org/ 
For Investors check out: https://tencapital.group/investor-landing/ 
For Startups check out: https://tencapital.group/company-landing/ 
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Category:general -- posted at: 6:00am CDT

What Is Reg CF Crowdfunding?

Hello, this is Hall T. Martin with the Startup Funding Espresso -- your daily shot of startup funding and investing.

Reg CF refers to the SEC regulation for equity crowdfunding.

This form of crowdfunding offers the investor an equity stake in the company.

By contrast, rewards platforms provide the product to those who provide funding.

In equity crowdfunding, the investor must hold the stock for at least twelve months.

Anyone eighteen years of age or older can invest.

By contrast, angel and venture capital fundraises use Reg D which is only for accredited investors.

Equity crowdfunding offers access to shares in companies for a relatively small investment amount.

This gives the investor the ability to invest in more companies.

You must complete a Form C for regulatory purposes before launching a campaign.

Most Reg CF campaigns cost anywhere between $10K and $50K for marketing.

It requires a budget for social media ad spend which is typically around 10%-15% of the fundraise.

You can run the raise on a licensed equity crowdfunding portal or on your own website. 

You can raise up to $5M.

Consider equity crowdfunding for your fundraise as it gives you access to a new investor base.


Thank you for joining us for the Startup Funding Espresso where we help startups and investors connect for funding.

Let’s go startup something today.
___________________________________

For more episodes from Investor Connect, please visit the site at: http://investorconnect.org 

Check out our other podcasts here: https://investorconnect.org/ 
For Investors check out: https://tencapital.group/investor-landing/ 
For Startups check out: https://tencapital.group/company-landing/ 
For eGuides check out: https://tencapital.group/education/ 
For upcoming Events, check out https://tencapital.group/events/ 

For Feedback please contact info@tencapital.group  

Please follow, share, and leave a review.

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Direct download: What_is_Reg_CF_crowdfunding.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:00am CDT

On this episode of Investor Connect, Hall welcomes Bill Flynn, CEO, and Chief Catalyst at Catalyst Growth Advisors.

Started in 2016, Catalyst Growth Advisors is based in Boston, MA, and serves leaders worldwide by predicting the future through deliberately creating it, leveraging, and teaching a growth framework largely influenced by the greatest thought leaders in management science - Drucker, Deming, Schein, Benis, Moesta, Edmondson, among many others.

Bill has collaborated with Alan Mulally, pitched Steve Jobs, accomplished much, failed often, and learned many useful lessons from thirty years of studying the science of success. He is best described as a pragmatic Simon Sinek; an optimist and an operator.

Bill embodies his core purpose - simplified servanthood - by spending each working moment to help create a compassionately productive society by enabling enlightened leaders to focus on the few things that truly matter to their teams and key stakeholders. For having a great business is one way of making a better world.

He has worked for and advised hundreds of companies, including startups, where he has a long track record of success spanning multiple industries. Bill has been a VP of Sales eight times, twice a CMO, and once a GM of a division of a $100MM IT services company before he pivoted to becoming a business growth coach in 2015. Prior to that, he had five successful outcomes, two IPOs, and seven acquisitions, including a turnaround during the 2008 financial crisis.

As a coach, in addition to being connected with MG 100, Women’s Business Collaborative, MassMEP, Small Giants, and EforAll, Bill has earned certifications from ScalingUp, Gravitas Impact, Metronome United, Predictive Index, and The Neuroleadership Institute. Bill was also nominated for the 2021 Thinkers50 Radar Award.

Bill’s best-selling book, “Further, Faster - The Vital Few Steps that Take the Guesswork out of Growth”, continues to garner a nearly 5-star rating generating demand for virtual and in-person national and international speaking opportunities.

Away from his coaching, Bill is a father, learner, cultivator, entrepreneur, speaker, writer, athlete, brother, etiologist, iconoclast, Stoic, upstream thinker, builder, giver, "musician", and friend. When he is not cheering on his collegiate-champion, musically-gifted daughter, Bill lives and works in greater Boston.

Bill discusses why companies survive or flourish and why leaders fire themselves from the day-to-day running of their businesses. He speaks about a chapter in his book, “Create a Culture of Psychological Safety”, and which leader has inspired him the most in his journey.

You can visit Catalyst Growth Advisors at www.catalystgrowthadvisors.com.

Bill can be contacted at bill@catalystgrowthadvisors.com, on LinkedIn at www.linkedin.com/in/billflynnpublic/, and on Twitter at www.twitter.com/whfjr.  

____________________________________________________________________

For more episodes from Investor Connect, please visit the site at: http://investorconnect.org  

Check out our other podcasts here: https://investorconnect.org/ 
For Investors check out: https://tencapital.group/investor-landing/ 
For Startups check out: https://tencapital.group/company-landing/ 
For eGuides check out: https://tencapital.group/education/ 
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For Feedback please contact info@tencapital.group   

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Direct download: Bill_Flynn_of_Catalyst_Growth.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:00am CDT

How Equity Crowdfunding Is Different From Traditional Fundraises

Hello, this is Hall T. Martin with the Startup Funding Espresso -- your daily shot of startup funding and investing.

Equity crowdfunding is different from traditional fundraises.

Here is a list of differences to consider:

Traditional fundraises expose your company to accredited investors which is a much smaller group.

Equity crowdfunding exposes your company to the general public which brings greater branding and awareness.

This helps promote and sell your product or services.

This gives access to many more potential investors including customers, partners, and developers.

It helps build your community and network.

Equity crowdfunding also differs from traditional fundraises in that it exposes you to unsophisticated investors.

The general public investor is often not aware of the risks in early-stage funding and often have many questions about the startup.

It also exposes your financials, team, and other details of your business to a broad range of people.

In traditional crowdfunding, the founder spends their time pitching and closing investors.

In equity crowdfunding, the founder spends money to advertise on social media and seeks additional investor networks to tap.

Equity crowdfunding also comes with fees to meet the compliance requirements.

Traditional fundraises typically do not require platform fees.

Keep these differences in mind in running an equity crowdfunding campaign.


Thank you for joining us for the Startup Funding Espresso where we help startups and investors connect for funding.

Let’s go startup something today.
___________________________________

For more episodes from Investor Connect, please visit the site at: http://investorconnect.org 

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Direct download: How_equity_crowdfunding_is_different_from_traditional_fund_raises.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:00am CDT

Legal Issues in Equity Crowdfunding

Hello, this is Hall T. Martin with the Startup Funding Espresso -- your daily shot of startup funding and investing.

There are specific legal issues regarding equity crowdfunding campaigns.

Here’s a list to keep in mind:

The regulations for fundraising are as follows:

Reg CF -- SEC designation for an equity crowdfunding raise that lets anyone invest in a startup for equity up to $5M.

Reg A+ -- SEC designation for an equity crowdfunding raise that lets anyone invest in a startup for equity up to $75M.

Reg D -- SEC designation for a fundraise that requires the investors to be accredited such as an angel investor or venture capitalist.

The funds raised on a Reg CF or Reg A+ will be placed in a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) which takes one line on the cap table of the company.

You can promote your fundraise to your family and friends, but the content must be factual and you cannot include terms. 

The terms of the fundraise must be kept on the fundraise platform to ensure all investors receive the same information.

All investments must be made on the fundraise platform.

You can use SAFE notes, convertible notes, as well as equity for the type of security.

You must file a Form C along with two years of GAAP financials.

You’ll need to file one annual report one year from the date of closing the raise.

Keep these legal issues in mind in preparing your fundraise campaign.


Thank you for joining us for the Startup Funding Espresso where we help startups and investors connect for funding.

Let’s go startup something today.
___________________________________

For more episodes from Investor Connect, please visit the site at: http://investorconnect.org 

Check out our other podcasts here: https://investorconnect.org/ 
For Investors check out: https://tencapital.group/investor-landing/ 
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Direct download: Legal_issues_in_equity_crowdfunding.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:00am CDT

This is the Investor Connect KiwiTech 2022 podcast series. In this series, we discuss trends and topics in the startup world.

I hope you enjoy this episode.
________________________________

Thank you for joining us for the Investor Connect KiwiTech 2022 podcast series.

For more episodes, please visit the site at: http://investorconnect.org

Check out our other podcasts here: https://investorconnect.org/ 
For Investors check out: https://tencapital.group/investor-landing/ 
For Startups check out: https://tencapital.group/company-landing/ 
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For Feedback please contact info@tencapital.group

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How Long Does It Take to Run an Equity Crowdfunding Campaign?

Hello, this is Hall T. Martin with the Startup Funding Espresso -- your daily shot of startup funding and investing.

In running an equity crowdfunding campaign you’ll need to budget time to prepare for the campaign as well as run it.

Preparations include applying to launch a fundraise campaign.

This requires completing a Form C and setting up your campaign on a crowdfunding portal or your own website.

You’ll need to prepare the campaign documents which include a pitch deck, key points about the fundraise, digital media assets such as ads and banners, and a campaign plan.

Then you’ll need to run the campaign launching to your network first.

Afterward, you’ll draw the circle wider to include investors who are interested in your sector.

For investors expressing interest, you’ll need to follow up to answer their questions.

In closing a campaign you’ll need to work through the fund's transfer process.

It typically takes two months to apply to launch a campaign, followed by three months to prepare the campaign documents and digital assets.

Then you’ll need to run several sub-campaigns to various investor groups taking one to two months each.

Closing typically takes one to two months to complete the fund transfers due to paperwork issues.

For a $1M fundraise, it will take one calendar year to raise it.


Thank you for joining us for the Startup Funding Espresso where we help startups and investors connect for funding.

Let’s go startup something today.
___________________________________

For more episodes from Investor Connect, please visit the site at: http://investorconnect.org 

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Direct download: How_long_does_it_take_to_run_an_equity_crowdfunding_campaign.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:00am CDT

Equity Crowdfunding Checklist

Hello, this is Hall T. Martin with the Startup Funding Espresso -- your daily shot of startup funding and investing.

There are several key elements to running a successful equity crowdfunding campaign.

Here’s a checklist to consider:

Create a campaign plan -- list of what you will promote and when. 

This includes updates, events, and other activities to promote your fundraise.

Build the campaign documents -- the pitch deck, video, and talking points.

The content should be compelling and high-quality.

Identify your target audience -- know who will most likely fund your campaign.

It’s important to understand the careabouts of your audience to know how to promote your fundraise.

Assemble a team -- build a group to support the preparation, launch, and ongoing campaign.

The fundraise takes many skills, so it’s important to build a team to run the campaign.

Map your investor network -- segment your investors by type, interest, and group.

Consider what stage in the campaign to engage each of them.

Find additional investor groups -- consider social media and fundraising networks.

It’s important to have additional investor groups to contact during the campaign, as your network will eventually run out.

Warm up your crowd -- prepare your network before the campaign begins.

Pre-campaign mailers prepare your network for the upcoming fundraise.


Thank you for joining us for the Startup Funding Espresso where we help startups and investors connect for funding.

Let’s go startup something today.
___________________________________

For more episodes from Investor Connect, please visit the site at: http://investorconnect.org 

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Direct download: Equity_crowdfunding_checklist.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:00am CDT

On this episode of Investor Connect, Hall welcomes Jeremy Miller, Chairman, and Founder of Health-E Commerce.

Health-E Commerce is the parent brand of a portfolio of brands that consists of its brand FSA Store, HSA Store, WellDeserved Health, and Caring Mill. Health-E Commerce’s mission is to make it simple and convenient for the 35 million U.S. consumers with pre-tax accounts to use them confidently.

FSAstore.com and HSAstore.com help everyday consumers and partners benefit better from their tax-free health benefits. With the largest selection of guaranteed flexible spending account (FSA) and health savings account (HSA) eligible products, intuitive educational resources, and more, the two e-commerce platforms are streamlining the intersection of healthcare accounts, technology, and personal finance.

Jeremy recognized the need for FSAstore.com after a successful career managing and growing small businesses, where his responsibilities included managing HR and the FSA account process for employees, most recently as Manager of Operations at Gehry Technologies, the technological division of Frank Gehry's architectural practice. He found the confusion and inconvenience surrounding FSAs resulted in participant frustration and ultimately the forfeiture of employees' tax-free income. In response to this market need, FSAstore.com was launched in the spring of 2010, after winning Columbia Business School's Odyssey Global MBA Award for Best Entrepreneurial Business Idea. Initial funding came from the Columbia Business School's Lang Fund and other angels. Since its inception, the company has closed 4 successful rounds of financing, amassed a customer base in excess of 200k, and has exceeded site and revenue expectations every quarter. Jeremy is a 2018 EY Entrepreneur of the Year.

Under Miller’s leadership, Health-E commerce has been honored three consecutive years as a Crain's Best Places to Work NYC in 2016, 2017, and 2018 and Deloitte Technology Fast 500 Awards for one of the fastest-growing companies in North America in 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019 and 2020.

Jeremy graduated with a B.S. in Business Administration from U.C. Berkeley and received his MBA from Columbia Business School. He lives in NYC with his wife and two children.

Jeremy discusses the state of investing in the FSA and HSA sectors, its evolution, and growth rate. He speaks about regulations in the industry and advises investors and startups.

You can visit Health-E Commerce at www.health-ecommerce.com, on LinkedIn at www.linkedin.com/company/healthecommerce, and on Twitter at www.twitter.com/FSAstore and www.twitter.com/HSAstore.   

Jeremy can be contacted on LinkedIn at www.linkedin.com/in/jeremymillercbs2010, and on Twitter at www.twitter.com/miller_ceo

_____________________________________________________________________

For more episodes from Investor Connect, please visit the site at: http://investorconnect.org  

Check out our other podcasts here: https://investorconnect.org/ 
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Direct download: Jeremy_Miller_of_Health-E_Commerce.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:00am CDT

How to Find More Investors for Crowdfunding Campaigns

Hello, this is Hall T. Martin with the Startup Funding Espresso -- your daily shot of startup funding and investing.

In running a crowdfunding campaign, you may need to find additional investor groups for your fundraise.

These investors include those who are interested in your industry category, or have a passion for the cause, or share the same affinity for the product or service you are promoting.

Here’s a list of sources to consider:

Use content such as blog posts and videos that educate the investor about your space.

Run a webinar series to attract investors to your offering.

Reach out on social media to find more investors through sector searches.

Advertise on financial trading and investor sites.

Join online events that include investors, such as pitch sessions.

Research angel networks and reach out to angel groups in your sector.

Run an event and capture the contact information of those who attend.

Recruit crowdfunding marketing firms to help promote your fundraise.

There are many ways to find more investors for your crowdfunding campaign.

It’s important to have additional investors lined up and ready for it.


Thank you for joining us for the Startup Funding Espresso where we help startups and investors connect for funding.

Let’s go startup something today.
___________________________________

For more episodes from Investor Connect, please visit the site at: http://investorconnect.org 

Check out our other podcasts here: https://investorconnect.org/ 
For Investors check out: https://tencapital.group/investor-landing/ 
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Direct download: How_to_find_more_investors_for_crowdfunding_campaigns.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:00am CDT

On this episode of Investor Connect, Hall welcomes Benjamin Grubbs, Founder of Next 10 Ventures.

Next 10 Ventures is an operating and investment company focused on incubating and accelerating new businesses, content, products, and services within the global creator economy. Its mission is to enrich, inspire, and entertain kids and young adults via the investments and partnerships they establish with creators who thrive as artists, entrepreneurs, educators, and opinion leaders.

Next 10 Ventures operates from offices in Los Angeles and Singapore. The company was incorporated in March 2018 and has secured significant funding to enable its long-term development.

Benjamin has a 20+ year history in online video and the creator economy as an operating executive, founder, and investor. He joined Yahoo! in 2001 to lead its online video business unit Yahoo! Broadcast in Southeast Asia, which was created as a result of the company's $5.7 billion acquisition of Broadcast.com. Benjamin joined eBay in 2004 to grow its domestic and cross-border business in Southeast Asia and Hong Kong and found success in acquiring young entrepreneurs to the Internet's leading e-commerce company at the time, to build a brand, buyer community, and scaleable business.

While at Turner Broadcasting in 2008, he guided the company's investments into young creators who were developing original IP on the Internet and evolving storytelling and franchise development via immersive and multi-player mobile and web video games.

Benjamin joined Google in 2012 to lead creator marketing for its YouTube unit in Asia Pacific, and later as a founding member of the YouTube Kids unit. He executive produced over a dozen original series and content programs with creators that have generated 2.4 billion views to date. In 2015, Benjamin relocated to the US to take on a global role at YouTube, managing a team that oversaw the company's relationships and investments into its top creators.

Benjamin is co-founding startups in the creator economy with talented entrepreneurs. Kollyde was formed in 2020. Creator+ was formed in 2021.

Benjamin discusses his investment thesis and advises startups and investors. He also shares some of the challenges they face.

You can visit Next 10 Ventures at www.next10ventures.com, on LinkedIn at www.linkedin.com/company/next10ventures, and on Twitter at www.twitter.com/next10ventures.  

Benjamin can be contacted at partner@next10ventures.com, on LinkedIn at www.linkedin.com/in/benjamingrubbs, and on Twitter at www.twitter.com/bjgrubbs  

_____________________________________________________________________

For more episodes from Investor Connect, please visit the site at: http://investorconnect.org  

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Direct download: Benjamin_Grubbs_of_Next_10_Ventures.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 9:14am CDT

What to Do for a Successful Crowdfunding Launch

Hello, this is Hall T. Martin with the Startup Funding Espresso -- your daily shot of startup funding and investing.

Before launching your crowdfunding campaign, make sure you do the following:

Create high-quality images and videos for the campaign page. 

Poor visuals reflect poorly on the company.

Create a well-organized and compelling story about your fundraise.

Focusing solely on the product and nothing else will leave the investor uninspired.

Create a captivating title for your crowdfunding campaign.

Listing your company or product name only will receive minimal engagement.

Add social proof to the description.

Show customers enjoy the product, and others are supporting you.

Set realistic fundraising goals.

Asking for too much in one go can leave the investor questioning if the campaign will be successful.

Identify and close initial investors for the fundraise. 

Investors want to know others are supporting your campaign.

Before launching your fundraise, make sure you add these elements to your campaign.


Thank you for joining us for the Startup Funding Espresso where we help startups and investors connect for funding.

Let’s go startup something today.
___________________________________

For more episodes from Investor Connect, please visit the site at: http://investorconnect.org 

Check out our other podcasts here: https://investorconnect.org/ 
For Investors check out: https://tencapital.group/investor-landing/ 
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Direct download: What_to_do_for_a_successful_crowdfunding_launch.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:00am CDT

How to Spot the Best MedTech & Healthcare Deals in a Changing World

This is the Investor Connect KiwiTech 2022 podcast series. In this series, we discuss trends and topics in the startup world.

I hope you enjoy this episode.
________________________________

Thank you for joining us for the Investor Connect KiwiTech 2022 podcast series. 

For more episodes, please visit the site at: http://investorconnect.org  

Check out our other podcasts here: https://investorconnect.org/  
For Investors check out: https://tencapital.group/investor-landing/ 
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Telling Your Story in a Crowdfunding Campaign 

Hello, this is Hall T. Martin with the Startup Funding Espresso -- your daily shot of startup funding and investing.

Storytelling is an effective tool in a fundraise.

Here are some key points on how to tell your story in a crowdfunding campaign:

Start with your overall cause, such as helping students graduate or improving people’s wellness.

Call out your value proposition upfront -- for example, “we help students graduate.”

State the problem -- for example, “50% of students drop out before graduation.”

Show your solution -- “we provide state of the art curriculum and teaching tools.”

Prove your solution works -- “our curriculum improves graduation rates by 75%.”

Fill out the story with why now is the right time to deploy this solution.

Remind the investor why the solution is important.

Show how your solution is a key step in achieving the goal of the overall cause.

Demonstrate the product works, and people will pay for it.

Finally, ask the investor to join you in solving the overall problem. 

Use your entrepreneurial journey to frame the story, so it demonstrates your passion.

Stories are effective tools for communicating your fundraise message.


Thank you for joining us for the Startup Funding Espresso where we help startups and investors connect for funding.

Let’s go startup something today.
___________________________________

For more episodes from Investor Connect, please visit the site at: http://investorconnect.org 

Check out our other podcasts here: https://investorconnect.org/ 
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Direct download: Telling_your_story_in_a_crowdfunding_campaign.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:00am CDT

Testing Your Deal for a Crowdfunding Raise

Hello, this is Hall T. Martin with the Startup Funding Espresso -- your daily shot of startup funding and investing.

Crowdfunding works well with certain types of products and businesses.

Consider these points in determining if crowdfunding is a good fit for your campaign:

  1. Is the value proposition immediately clear when someone sees it?
  2. Does it solve a specific need rather than a general tool?
  3. Can you describe its main use case in five words or less?
  4. Is it unique, and does it stand out from the competition?
  5. Does the product provide significant value?
  6. Have you tested the idea on a non-family member?
  7. Would you ask your family and friends to fund it?
  8. Can you show social proof to validate the market and the product?
  9. Have you raised some funding already on it?

Consider these questions in determining whether or not you should pursue crowdfunding as part of your fundraise. 


Thank you for joining us for the Startup Funding Espresso where we help startups and investors connect for funding.

Let’s go startup something today.
___________________________________

For more episodes from Investor Connect, please visit the site at: http://investorconnect.org 

Check out our other podcasts here: https://investorconnect.org/ 
For Investors check out: https://tencapital.group/investor-landing/ 
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Direct download: Testing_your_deal_for_a_crowdfunding_raise.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:00am CDT

On this episode of Investor Connect, Hall welcomes Patrick Polak, Managing Partner at Newion Partners.

Founded in December 2000, Newion Partners is an Amsterdam-based venture capital firm investing in B2B cloud, SaaS, and software companies. Newion is a highly dedicated and involved investor that is actively engaged with its portfolio companies and keeps in close contact with them, particularly in the field of strategy and finance. The fund’s track record comes from a strong belief in lean startup methodology, chasm theory, and leadership models, as well as deep industry knowledge in B2B SaaS companies. Its present portfolio consists of 25 companies. 

After completing his studies in Aerospace Engineering in Delft, Patrick jointly founded an IT company. He sold his interest in this company at the end of 1996, started working at N.V. NOM in Groningen at the beginning of 1997, and was mainly responsible for investments in IT-related businesses. Patrick has led over 50 investments in B2B software companies and financed various other types of companies. Patrick has also occupied positions on various non-executive boards. He is married with two children and is an animal lover.

Patrick discusses how he sees the VC industry evolving and details his investment thesis. He shares with Hall what excites him now and advises startups and investors.

You can visit Newion Partners at www.newion.com, on LinkedIn at www.linkedin.com/company/newion/, and on Twitter at www.twitter.com/newionpartners.  

Patrick can be contacted at patrick@newion.com, and on LinkedIn at www.linkedin.com/in/papolak/.

_____________________________________________________________________

For more episodes from Investor Connect, please visit the site at: http://investorconnect.org  

Check out our other podcasts here: https://investorconnect.org/ 
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Direct download: Patrick_Polak_of_Newion_Partners_2.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:00am CDT

How to Choose a Crowdfunding Platform

Hello, this is Hall T. Martin with the Startup Funding Espresso -- your daily shot of startup funding and investing.

There are many platforms available for crowdfunding.

Consider these points in choosing one for your fundraise:

Set your fundraising goals so you know how much money you need to raise.

Do you want a general platform with broad coverage or a niche platform with deeper relationships?

In addition to funding, do you want product or brand exposure?

Determine any other requirements, such as finding mentors or partners.

Are you raising for a non-profit or a for-profit organization?

What is your budget for platform fees and marketing?

What level of marketing support do you want from the platform?

How much support do you need for building your campaign?

There are online tools that rate the platforms and provide performance data.

Check out these tools and determine your requirements before choosing a crowdfunding platform.


Thank you for joining us for the Startup Funding Espresso where we help startups and investors connect for funding.

Let’s go startup something today.
___________________________________

For more episodes from Investor Connect, please visit the site at: http://investorconnect.org 

Check out our other podcasts here: https://investorconnect.org/ 
For Investors check out: https://tencapital.group/investor-landing/ 
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Direct download: How_to_choose_a_crowdfunding_platform.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:00am CDT

On this episode of Investor Connect, Hall welcomes Jessica Karr, Founding General Partner at Coyote Ventures.

Coyote Ventures is a venture capital fund investing in early-stage startups that are innovating in women’s health and wellness, founded by Jessica Karr and Dr. Brittany Barreto, who are scientists turned entrepreneurs turned investors. Women’s health is a $1T+ industry and is an emerging industry due to the historic marginalization of women’s health. Coyote Ventures has completed its first four investments in companies working in sexual wellness, menopause, menstruation, and endometriosis and is actively investing. 

Jessica was a biochemist at Impossible Foods and has direct hands-on experience building and launching novel products. Jessica is passionate about innovation that drives positive change in human health, equality, and our relationship to the earth. She helped build a pilot impact-focused VC fund with a conscious celebrity; she has developed product strategies as a consultant and advisor to startups internationally; she is an angel investor, venture partner at Republic.co, and an active investor in Portfolia’s FemTech fund. She can often be found swimming in the SF Bay and walking her Pom rescue.

Jessica discusses the state of investing in fintech and how she sees the industry evolving. She speaks about her investment thesis and some of the challenges startups and investors face.

You can visit Coyote Ventures at www.coyote.ventures, via LinkedIn at www.linkedin.com/company/coyoteventures/, and via Twitter at www.twitter.com/Coyote_Ventures

Jessica can be contacted via email at jessica@coyote.ventures, via LinkedIn at www.linkedin.com/in/jessicarkarr/, and via Twitter at www.twitter.com/JessicaRKarr

_____________________________________________________________________

For more episodes from Investor Connect, please visit the site at: http://investorconnect.org  

Check out our other podcasts here: https://investorconnect.org/ 
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Direct download: Jessica_Karr_of_Coyote_Ventures.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:00am CDT

More Mistakes in Crowdfunding Campaigns 

Hello, this is Hall T. Martin with the Startup Funding Espresso -- your daily shot of startup funding and investing.

Fundraising requires preparation and execution. 

Avoid these additional mistakes in running your crowdfunding campaign:

Not building your crowd before launching your campaign.

It’s important to identify your crowd and raise awareness about your upcoming campaign.

Not developing relationships with influencers and networkers who can extend the reach of your campaign.

It’s important to set up several connectors who can give you access to new investors throughout the campaign.

Selecting the wrong platform.

It’s important to choose a platform that helps you connect to your target audience.

Not demonstrating a growth story throughout the campaign.

It’s important to show progress through updates to investors as they look to fund startups with momentum and traction.

Not setting a realistic fundraising goal.

It’s important to break the fundraise into stages and sprints.

Not following up with your investors to address questions and concerns.

It’s important to follow up with investors in a timely manner to close them. 

Avoid these mistakes in building and running your campaign.


Thank you for joining us for the Startup Funding Espresso where we help startups and investors connect for funding.

Let’s go startup something today.
___________________________________

For more episodes from Investor Connect, please visit the site at: http://investorconnect.org 

Check out our other podcasts here: https://investorconnect.org/ 
For Investors check out: https://tencapital.group/investor-landing/ 
For Startups check out: https://tencapital.group/company-landing/ 
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Direct download: More_mistakes_in_crowdfunding_campaigns.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:00am CDT

Mistakes in Crowdfunding Campaigns 

Hello, this is Hall T. Martin with the Startup Funding Espresso -- your daily shot of startup funding and investing.

Fundraising requires preparation and execution. 

Avoid these mistakes in running your crowdfunding campaign:

Not understanding the rules and regulations around crowdfunding, including what you can and cannot do.

Launching without market validation or product validation.  

You must prove to the investor that customers will pay for the product, and it works.

Failing to position your deal for the investor type you are engaging.

Each type of investor looks for different aspects of the deal around traction, product type, monetization model, and expected return.

Running a campaign without quality campaign materials such as digital advertising, landing pages that convert, and a quality pitch deck.

Not setting short and long-term goals for the campaign.

You need to know where you should be in the campaign each week.

Not providing updates about the progress of the company, including sales, team, product, and funds raised.

Not having any funding at the launch of the campaign.

No investor wants to go first. You must have some funding already in place.

Avoid these mistakes in building and running your campaign.


Thank you for joining us for the Startup Funding Espresso where we help startups and investors connect for funding.

Let’s go startup something today.
___________________________________

For more episodes from Investor Connect, please visit the site at: http://investorconnect.org 

Check out our other podcasts here: https://investorconnect.org/ 
For Investors check out: https://tencapital.group/investor-landing/ 
For Startups check out: https://tencapital.group/company-landing/ 
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For upcoming Events, check out https://tencapital.group/events/ 

For Feedback please contact info@tencapital.group  

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Music courtesy of Bensound.

Direct download: Mistakes_in_crowdfunding_campaigns.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:00am CDT

On this episode of Investor Connect, Hall welcomes Edward Ismawan Chamdani, Managing Partner at Ideosource VC, Gayo Capital, and StarCamp.

Ideosource Venture Capital started in 2011 investing in more than 30+ tech startups with a combined valuation of multiples of billions of US dollars in 2021.

Ideosource VC was set up as a two GP partnership with Andi S. Boediman who is now heading the Ideosource Entertainment, and Edward leads the impact and green investment in Gayo Capital, both set up around 2018 until now. A venture builder StarCamp Asia was set up in early 2021 to ride on Web 3.0 potential and initiatives.

Edward serves as a board member of Amvesindo.org (Indonesian Venture Capital and Startup Association), and ALUDI.id (Security Crowdfunding Association). He has a personal purpose to unlock the ultimate potential of Indonesia sustainably from various aspects mainly in leveraging human capital surplus and abundant natural resources via technology disruption and implementation. He contributes to various startup events, fintech/other sectors, and government policy as a contributor, advisor, mentor, and speaker.

Edward discusses his investment thesis, advises investors and startups, and shares what excites him in the industry. 

You can visit Ideosource VC at www.ideosource.com, via LinkedIn at www.linkedin.com/company/ideosource.com/, and via Twitter at www.mobile.twitter.com/ideosource, Gayo Capital at www.gayo.capital and via LinkedIn at www.linkedin.com/company/gayo-capital/mycompany/, and StarCamp at www.starcamp.asia.  

Edward can be contacted via email at edward.chamdani@ideosource.com, via LinkedIn at www.linkedin.com/in/eichamdani/, and via Twitter at www.twitter.com/ismawanVC.  

_____________________________________________________

For more episodes from Investor Connect, please visit the site at: http://investorconnect.org  

Check out our other podcasts here: https://investorconnect.org/ 
For Investors check out: https://tencapital.group/investor-landing/ 
For Startups check out: https://tencapital.group/company-landing/ 
For eGuides check out: https://tencapital.group/education/ 
For upcoming Events, check out https://tencapital.group/events/  

For Feedback please contact info@tencapital.group   

Please follow, share, and leave a review.

Music courtesy of Bensound.

Direct download: Edward_Ismawan_Chamdani_of_Ideosource_VC.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:00am CDT

Benefits of Crowdfunding

Hello, this is Hall T. Martin with the Startup Funding Espresso -- your daily shot of startup funding and investing.

Crowdfunding brings many benefits to the startup raising funding.

Here are some key points to note:

It gives the startup a whole new network of potential investors to pursue.

Instead of raising only from accredited investors, crowdfunding raises from everyone.

It gives the startup a way to raise money for reasons beyond the financial return.

Instead of raising funding solely on the potential financial gain, a startup can raise funding on other factors such as the social impact.

It gives the startup more branding and awareness.

By using crowdfunding, a company can generate broader exposure for its brand and products.

This is particularly helpful for consumer product goods startups.

It also gives the startup a greater range of tools for reaching out to investors.

Social media and other means can be used to run a crowdfunding campaign.

There are many benefits to crowdfunding for both the startup and the investor.


Thank you for joining us for the Startup Funding Espresso where we help startups and investors connect for funding.

Let’s go startup something today.
___________________________________

For more episodes from Investor Connect, please visit the site at: http://investorconnect.org 

Check out our other podcasts here: https://investorconnect.org/ 
For Investors check out: https://tencapital.group/investor-landing/ 
For Startups check out: https://tencapital.group/company-landing/ 
For eGuides check out: https://tencapital.group/education/ 
For upcoming Events, check out https://tencapital.group/events/ 

For Feedback please contact info@tencapital.group  

Please follow, share, and leave a review.

Music courtesy of Bensound.

Direct download: Benefits_of_crowdfunding.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:00am CDT

Best Practices for Crowdfunding Campaigns

Hello, this is Hall T. Martin with the Startup Funding Espresso -- your daily shot of startup funding and investing.

In running an equity crowdfunding campaign, include these best practices:

  1. Tell a story -- show how you came up with the idea for the product and how customers and partners validate it.
  2. Prepare your investor network -- build a list of potential investors who you can pursue.
  3. Demonstrate support -- start with your family and friends and use their investment to demonstrate investor support.
  4. Use multiple channels -- use several communication channels such as email, social media, and events to showcase your campaign.
  5. Provide updates -- keep the investors informed about progress with your campaign and company including information on sales, team, product, and fundraise.
  6. Generate press coverage -- find a writer for a publication and work with them to capture your campaign into their bigger story.
  7. Include visuals -- use imagery, including photos and videos. Images convey a great deal more information than words alone.
  8. Understand your investor -- test your campaign with investors you know to gauge what interests them and what they find compelling.
  9. Plan the campaign -- prepare your campaign from start to finish. You may need to add more steps as you go, but start the fundraise with a complete plan.



Thank you for joining us for the Startup Funding Espresso where we help startups and investors connect for funding.

Let’s go startup something today.
___________________________________

For more episodes from Investor Connect, please visit the site at: http://investorconnect.org 

Check out our other podcasts here: https://investorconnect.org/ 
For Investors check out: https://tencapital.group/investor-landing/ 
For Startups check out: https://tencapital.group/company-landing/ 
For eGuides check out: https://tencapital.group/education/ 
For upcoming Events, check out https://tencapital.group/events/ 

For Feedback please contact info@tencapital.group  

Please follow, share, and leave a review.

Music courtesy of Bensound.

Direct download: Best_practices_for_crowdfunding_campaigns.mp3
Category:general -- posted at: 6:00am CDT

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