A9 Preparation: Prior to a pitch- Learn about who you’re pitching, what they care about, when their last deal was, where is the fund in terms of cycle and thesis. Post pitch- stay engaged with progress reports. Hint – Even a ‘no’ can be temporary. #SaasChats
A8 Feedback: Most of our discussions end up revolving around Goto market strategy. The enterprise SW space is incredibly noisy today and so having a clear customer acquisition strategy is critical to success. #SaasChats
A7 Questions to expect: We typically look for compelling answers to the following 10 topics: Team, Technology, Customers (traction), IP (differentiation), Market (size), Product, Forecast (model), Syndicate, Deal terms, Exit prospects. #SaasChats
A6 Standout moments: I generally appreciate meaningful insights that are not obvious. This generally comes from entrepreneurs who’ve clearly done their homework and come up with a super thoughtful and compelling solution. #SaasChats
A5 Red Flags: There are quite a few! Hockeystick growth projections with no track record. Dismissiveness of all competition. Limited team / market experience. Lack of product or technology differentiation. Bonus flags for defensiveness, linear thinking, and arrogance. #SaasChats
A4 Pitch: I like a clearly articulated problem with a suitably sized market (ie: Big!). I look for a compelling solution, along with a clear understanding of the competition and a thoughtful approach to your gotomarket. “If you make it- they won’t necessarily come!” #SaasChats
A3 Cold outreach: Avoid if at all possible! If it’s your only way in, be politely persistent. Provide company updates on a consistent basis, make them interesting and meaningful. #SaasChats
A2 In person pitching: Similar to online- Be punctual and prepared, dress for the part. Let the conversation wander (if the investor takes you there). Be open to being challenged. Level up by being interactive – ask questions, check your ego, learn from the process. #SaasChats
A1 Zoom pitching: Back to basics- Be on time, be prepared; get a good rig (cam/mic, connection), be in a quiet space, practice. Bonus points for developing rapport – hard to measure but a personal connection counts for a lot! #SaasChats
I’m an early stage investor – I focus on enterprise software investments at the seed stage. We invest between $500K and $4M, and are generally the first institutional investor involved. We have a huge network and aim to help with connections and counsel. #SaasChats
Definitely speak with #EdlyISA first. They've built the first ISA marketplace over the past three years. Lots of learning and experience...
WFH has made it more of an insider's game to secure funding. Great synopsis from @gordonritter emcap.com/thoughts/adapt-to-… via @emergencecap
Really enjoyed chatting with @shaneparrish @farnamstreet Devoted to the pursuit of learning, knowledge, and wisdom. apple.co/3mEQEZr
Applications are NOW OPEN for @kauffmanfellows Class 26! As part of the network, I highly recommend the #KauffmanFellows program. Excited to see the next class of global leaders! Apply: ctt.ec/xzdYc+
Every Product Needs a North Star metric. We call this your “Key Product Utility” amplitude.com/blog/2018/03/2…
Excited to be hanging out with the Stratuscent team at CES- come by the booth ‘Sands Expo 52518 for a demo!’
If you think technology innovation is slowing, read this! flip.it/po4Zcz
