Funded - How They Raised Millions artwork

Funded - How They Raised Millions

224 episodes - English - Latest episode: 5 days ago -

The tech media loves a splashy funding announcement - millions of dollars injected into a hot startup primed to become a unicorn. But what about the work behind those headlines? Host Jason Yeh, a former VC and venture-backed startup founder, talks with entrepreneurs about how they raised the capital to launch world-changing startups. Their conversations uncover incredible stories including cautionary tales, inspirational memories, and even some insightful tips. Keep up with us on social @fundedpod to learn more.

Funded is presented by our good friends at Vanta, the leading automated security and compliance platform.

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Episodes

TBC80: Why Monthly Investor Newsletters Might Be a Bad Idea for Founders

June 13, 2024 07:00 - 9 minutes - 8.47 MB

In this episode of The Backchannel, Jason pushes back at the common practice of founders sending out monthly investor newsletter updates. Although it may work for some founders, monthly newsletters aren't for everyone. In this episode Jason shares a few other ways to use investor lists like targeted updates, requests for help, specific achievements and so on. Make sure to listen to the full episode to hear his full thoughts! --   If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our...

TBC: Is Silicon Valley Still the Place to Be for Startups? (TBC79)

June 06, 2024 07:00 - 9 minutes - 8.37 MB

Hey everyone, welcome back to the Back Channel! Today, we're mixing things up.  My producer Paige read an article from the Bay Area Council Economic Institute and wanted my take.  They claim tech workers are flocking back to SF, with major companies still headquartered there, and a big chunk of AI investment dollars staying local.  Although there's truth to that, I think the pandemic has opened doors for other cities.  San Francisco is still important due to its history and other specifi...

The Story Behind Lex's $5.6M Seed Round (Jennifer Lewis / Lex - Ep 42)

June 04, 2024 07:00 - 54 minutes - 49.6 MB

In this episode, we dive into the unpredictable world of startups, where the only constant is change. Joining us is Jennifer Lewis, co-founder and CEO of Lex, a pioneering social app for the LGBTQ community. Jennifer shares her rollercoaster journey through the venture-backed startup landscape, a path filled with highs and lows, trials, and significant growth.   Despite the notion that startups should be smooth sailing, Jennifer's experience tells a different story—one of persistence and r...

TBC: How Much Should I Raise? (TBC78)

May 30, 2024 07:00 - 6 minutes - 5.5 MB

In this episode of The Backchannel, we explore everything you should consider when figuring out how much you need to raise.  Jason delves into the common questions founders face regarding fundraising amounts, the importance of being goal-oriented, and the two key goals for raising funds. Jason also stresses the importance of calculating the necessary funds to hit these milestones, rather than opting for smaller, seemingly easier amounts that could lead to a "bridge to nowhere."  Drawing f...

TBC: How I Work - For Easily Distracted Founders (TBC77)

May 23, 2024 07:00 - 8 minutes - 7.35 MB

In this episode of The Backchannel, the host launches a new series called "How I Work," exploring strategies for productivity.  Jason delves into the challenges faced by founders, such as digital distractions, and shares his personal approach to combatting them.  By disconnecting from the internet during certain periods and utilizing a digital notepad like the remarkable device, he emphasizes the importance of carving out distraction-free time to boost productivity.  Join him as he shares...

The Journey of Ian Swanson Starting 3 Venture-Backed Successes (Ian Swanson / Protect AI)

May 21, 2024 07:00 - 1 hour - 60.9 MB

What makes someone a successful founder?  Is it how much revenue they're able to generate? How well they lead their company and their employees? How many investors they're able to land?  Those all play a role ... but the real answer is probably more nuanced and certainly harder to pinpoint.  When we look at any successful founder throughout history, it's natural to wonder how they got there. To wonder what made them different from the thousands of others who tried to walk the same path an...

TBC: Why Every Founder Needs Third-Party Feedback (TBC76)

May 16, 2024 07:00 - 4 minutes - 4.09 MB

In this episode of The Backchannel, the host emphasizes the critical role of third-party feedback in the fundraising process for entrepreneurs. Reflecting on a recent interaction with a founder, the host describes how an initially chaotic business pitch was clarified and refined through his outsider's perspective.  This episode underscores the unique advantage of third-party insights, which strip away emotional biases and unnecessary details to highlight the core message that resonates.  ...

TBC: Pro Tip for VC's - The Personal Newsletter (TBC75)

May 09, 2024 07:00 - 8 minutes - 7.96 MB

In this episode, the host shares the power of personal newsletters for VC's, shedding light on investor psychology and fundraising strategies.  Drawing from anecdotes from his personal life and interactions with VC's, he highlights the importance of staying top of mind in the competitive landscape of deal flow. By sharing stories of missed opportunities and the dynamics of VC interactions, he underscores the significance of personal branding through newsletters.  Ultimately, the episode o...

TBC: Pro Tip for VC's - The Personal Newsletter

May 09, 2024 07:00 - 8 minutes - 7.96 MB

In this episode, the host shares the power of personal newsletters for VC's, shedding light on investor psychology and fundraising strategies.  Drawing from anecdotes from his personal life and interactions with VC's, he highlights the importance of staying top of mind in the competitive landscape of deal flow. By sharing stories of missed opportunities and the dynamics of VC interactions, he underscores the significance of personal branding through newsletters.  Ultimately, the episode o...

How Nancy Xu Raised $10M for Moonhub (Nancy Xu / Moonhub - Ep 40)

May 07, 2024 07:00 - 53 minutes - 49.4 MB

Join us on a journey through the winding roads of entrepreneurship with our guest, Nancy Xu, the Founder & CEO of Moonhub. From her early days training for the U.S. math and physics team to her academic journey at Stanford and her stint as a software engineer at Facebook, Nancy seemed destined for academia.  However, her passion for impactful ideas steered her towards entrepreneurship, leading her to start Moonhub, the pioneering AI-powered recruiter. With over $10 million raised in just ...

TBC: How & Why to Get a Technical Co-founder (TBC74)

May 02, 2024 07:00 - 5 minutes - 5.19 MB

In this episode, our host covers the importance of having a technical co-founder for non-technical founders and how to go about finding one.  Venture capitalists seek teams with diverse skill sets, understanding that successful companies require both technical and non-technical expertise.  For non-technical founders, making progress and creating value without a technical product is key to attracting top talent.  By understanding the "why" and "how" of finding a technical co-founder, you'l...

TBC: Addressing Competition With Investors (TBC73)

April 25, 2024 07:00 - 3 minutes - 3.57 MB

In this episode of the Back Channel, we explore the importance of addressing competition during investor meetings.  Drawing on an analogy from the hosts undergrad economics class, he emphasizes the significance of positioning oneself confidently alongside competitors and calmly articulating one's unique value proposition.  Rather than avoiding the conversation, address the competition with calm confidence, focusing on your strengths and differentiation. It's all about owning your narrative...

The Story Behind SGNL Raising $22M in 2 Years (Scott Kriz / SGNL - Ep 39)

April 23, 2024 07:00 - 1 hour - 57.1 MB

There's a quote from Abraham Lincoln that always really speaks to me: "Give me 6 hours to chop down a tree and I will spend the first 4 sharpening my axe."  It's become a mantra of sorts for me, especially when it comes to fundraising. I share it with all of the founders I work with because it encapsulates a fundamental truth: the preparation before the task is key. In my experience, the ease of a fundraising journey is directly proportional to the groundwork laid beforehand. Those lightni...

TBC: Understanding VC Firms to Send the Right Signals (TBC72)

April 18, 2024 07:00 - 5 minutes - 5.07 MB

In this episode of The Backchannel, host Jason Yeh delves into the world of junior VCs and their path to becoming venture capitalists.  Drawing from his own experience at Greycroft and the hiring processes, he emphasizes the significance of technical backgrounds, industry connections, and experience in fields like consulting or banking.  Venture capital firms prioritize hiring from networks with access to potential deals and founders, highlighting the importance of networking in this indus...

TBC: Dilution 101 For Founders (TBC71)

April 11, 2024 07:00 - 7 minutes - 7.12 MB

Dilution is one of those things that a lot of founders seem to 'lightly' understand.   That's why in today's episode, Jason breaks down a step-by-step example of how dilution actually works.   Discover the significance of understanding dilution and its impact on ownership over your company. See you next week on The Backchannel! --   If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.co...

The Story Behind Purple Metrics Closing Their $1.2M Pre-Seed Round (Guta Tolmasquim / Purple Metrics - Ep 38)

April 09, 2024 07:00 - 58 minutes - 53.5 MB

Bootstrapping and raising venture capital are two different beasts. Bootstrapping gives you control, but growth is slower. Venture capital speeds things up, but you have to give up some control.  There is, however, one thing they both have in common: each requires a leap of faith. Today's guest is pretty unique. She's someone who's gotten to experience building both types of companies - one bootstrapped, one venture backed. That guest is Guta Tolmasquim, founder and CEO of Purple Metrics,...

TBC: Why the Pre-Seed Round Was Created... and How It's Changed (TBC70)

April 04, 2024 07:00 - 6 minutes - 6.19 MB

A lot of people tend to forget that the pre-seed round in venture capital is still relatively new.   In today's episode, we talk about how the pre-seed round came about, and how it's changed since moving farther away from the bull markets back in 2020 and 2021.  One of those changes being the need for investors to see traction earlier and earlier before investing.   Make sure to watch the full episode to hear all the insights around pre-seed rounds! --   If you're looking for more fu...

TBC: Taking Advice From Charlie Munger (TBC69)

March 28, 2024 07:00 - 4 minutes - 4.08 MB

Have you ever heard of the quote "The safest way to get what you want is to deserve what you want"? It was said by the legendary investor Charlie Munger, and in todays episode we're going to talk about how you can apply that same understanding to fundraising as a startup founder. Get ready to listen along and ask yourself to answer hard truths about yourself and your company.  See you next week on The Backchannel! --   If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly new...

The Story Behind Atlys Raising $16.3M in Venture Capital (Mohak Nahta / Atlys - Ep 37)

March 26, 2024 07:00 - 1 hour - 59.7 MB

Most of us have heard the saying "good things don't come easy", and I'd be willing to argue that the majority of people agree with that statement on some level.  But sometimes, good things do come easy and THEN they get harder. And it's in those pivotal moments where you really get to see what you're capable of.  That was the case for today's guest Mohak Nahta - founder and CEO of Atlys - a company he started as a side project to solve his own problem of getting his visa on time when trave...

TBC: Should You Announce Your Fundraise? Pros vs Cons. (TBC68)

March 21, 2024 07:00 - 7 minutes - 6.78 MB

Hello & welcome back to The Backchannel!  Today, we're diving into a topic that's often overshadowed in the frenzy of fundraising: whether or not to announce your round. Drawing from the hosts own experiences and observations, he'll guide you through some of the complexities involved in making this decision.  Join us as we dissect the strategic implications and weigh the pros and cons, offering practical insights for founders charting their course in the startup landscape. See you next w...

TBC: Should You Announce Your Fundraise? Pros vs Cons.

March 21, 2024 07:00 - 7 minutes - 6.78 MB

Hello & welcome back to The Backchannel!  Today, we're diving into a topic that's often overshadowed in the frenzy of fundraising: whether or not to announce your round. Drawing from the hosts own experiences and observations, he'll guide you through some of the complexities involved in making this decision.  Join us as we dissect the strategic implications and weigh the pros and cons, offering practical insights for founders charting their course in the startup landscape. See you next w...

TBC: The 7 Forms of Support You Need to Fundraise (TBC67)

March 14, 2024 07:00 - 9 minutes - 8.5 MB

The truth is - most first-time fundraisers underestimate all that goes into fundraising and the support you need to make it through. In this episode, Jason touches on 7 different emotional and tactical forms of support every founder should be aware of before jumping into a fundraise. Make sure to watch the full episode so you don't miss any! See you next week on The Backchannel. --   If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies an...

TBC: The 7 Forms of Support You Need to Fundraise

March 14, 2024 07:00 - 9 minutes - 8.5 MB

The truth is - most first-time fundraisers underestimate all that goes into fundraising and the support you need to make it through. In this episode, Jason touches on 7 different emotional and tactical forms of support every founder should be aware of before jumping into a fundraise. Make sure to watch the full episode so you don't miss any! See you next week on The Backchannel. --   If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies an...

Betting on Yourself: The Journey to Closing a $7.6M Seed Round (Stacy Edgar / Venteur - Ep 36)

March 12, 2024 07:00 - 50 minutes - 46.3 MB

There is one thing that almost every single entrepreneur has in common - the drive to change the world in some way, shape, or form. For today's guest, she spent years of her career working for organizations like Doctors Without Borders and the United Nations, living overseas and funding entrepreneurs who were trying to make a difference in their communities. Stacy Edgar is the co-founder and CEO of Ventuer, a company revolutionizing the healthcare space. To date, Venteur has raised a total...

TBC: Lead vs. Co-Lead Investors (TBC66)

March 07, 2024 08:00 - 7 minutes - 6.43 MB

In this episode of The Backchannel, the host delves into the intricacies of lead investors versus co-leads, breaking down the key distinctions and red flags to watch out for.  Learn why securing a dedicated lead investor holds paramount importance in navigating the complexities of fundraising, and gain valuable insights into the potential pitfalls of co-lead arrangements.  Tune in for an informative exploration of investment dynamics and strategic considerations to think about before consi...

TBC: Pattern Recognition (TBC65)

February 29, 2024 08:00 - 8 minutes - 7.54 MB

Join us in this episode for an insightful discussion on pattern recognition in venture capital and its impact on underrepresented founders.  The host dives into the power dynamics of pattern matching, exploring how VCs use this tool to make investment decisions while shedding light on its potential biases.  From the imprecision of pattern recognition to strategies for overcoming its limitations, this episode offers practical insights for both founders and investors.  Listen in for a solid...

Builder Turned Fundraiser: Tractian's $45M Series B (Igor Marinelli / Tractian - Ep 35)

February 27, 2024 08:00 - 59 minutes - 54.7 MB

While most kids were occupied with typical childhood activities, today's guest was already knee-deep in the world of technology. From coding PHP to deconstructing old computers with his pops, his early passion for innovation set the stage for an extraordinary entrepreneurial journey. Fast forward to the present, Igor Marinelli stands as the visionary co-founder of Tractian, a cutting-edge machine intelligence company that has gained significant attention in the startup ecosystem. With an im...

TBC: The Use of Funds Slide (TBC64)

February 22, 2024 08:00 - 5 minutes - 4.78 MB

In this episode, the host tackles a common yet often misunderstood slide in pitch decks: the "use of funds" slide.  Many founders include it because they've heard it's necessary, but often it ends up being a vague waste of space.  Instead, use this slide strategically to outline where you are today, your future goals, and how the allocated funds will be specifically utilized.  By anchoring it in concrete objectives and clear allocation, you not only inform investors but also demonstrate a...

TBC: The Secret Value of the Email Appendix (TBC63)

February 15, 2024 08:00 - 5 minutes - 4.68 MB

In this episode of the Back Channel, Jason shares a fresh approach to email communication that's both personal and impactful. Learn how to craft emails with a punchy, genuine tone while including a business-focused appendix for all the important details. Say goodbye to lengthy, synthetic emails and hello to increased response rates.  Listen and discover the power of the email appendix and revolutionize your communication style! --   If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab ...

Trailblazing the VC Industry (Joanna Strober / Midi Health - Ep 34)

February 13, 2024 08:00 - 50 minutes - 46.7 MB

In the last two decades, the startup industry has seen remarkable transformations, from the emergence of angel investors and venture capital firms to the rise of SaaS, cryptocurrencies, and the global diversification of the field. But what's even more exciting is the increasing presence of female founders, who, despite facing challenges, are making significant strides in entrepreneurship. Today, we're chatting with Joanna Strober, a founder who's witnessed this industry shift firsthand. Fr...

TBC: 3 Tips for Choosing Service Providers (TBC62)

February 08, 2024 08:00 - 4 minutes - 4.58 MB

In this episode of The Back Channel, we delve into a crucial post-fundraising topic: choosing service providers for your startup. While it may seem mundane, the decision-making process can greatly impact your business.  Key takeaways include filtering for providers with startup expertise, considering the additional value they offer beyond their core services, and trusting your instincts about the working relationship. --   If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly ...

TBC: What's the Deal With Thesis-Driven Firms? (TBC61)

February 01, 2024 08:00 - 5 minutes - 5.44 MB

Join Jason Yeh on The Back Channel as he demystifies thesis-driven firms. They may not be as rigid as you think!  Ever wondered why these firms love their theses? It's not just about focus; it's also a way to say "no" graciously when a deal doesn't spark joy.  Plus, it can also be used for flexibility! Some startups may not seem thesis-fit, but if you dig deeper, they'll find intriguing connections to make the deal work. Don't be afraid to engage with thesis-driven firms. Look beyond the ...

Paying the Peter Thiel Price (Dylan Beynon / Mindbloom - Ep 33)

January 30, 2024 08:00 - 1 hour - 60.7 MB

Just like with any skill, there are beginners, and there are experts. Through practice and experience, the experts become exceptional at what they do. In fundraising, there are also experts. You could call them the "seasoned vets" of venture capital. These are the founders that have raised all the way from small angel rounds to Series B and beyond. It's safe to say that any founder who's raised over 4 rounds of venture capital knows a thing or two about fundraising. Today, I get to share m...

TBC: Bouncing Back After Failure (TBC60)

January 25, 2024 08:00 - 5 minutes - 5.33 MB

In this episode, Jason shares a conversation with a founder who recently raised capital but had to close their startup. First-time founders, remember that every setback is a chance to improve. Closing a startup isn't the end; it's a chance to evolve. Once you've felt the grind and tasted success and failure, your perspective changes. You gain insights you can't find in books or tweets. It's also important to note that venture capitalists value founders who've been through the startup roll...

TBC: Creating a Story That Can Be Shared (TBC59)

January 18, 2024 08:00 - 4 minutes - 4.56 MB

Ever wondered why your startup story and pitch deck need to be razor-sharp?  Sure, you want to impress investors, but there's more to it than meets the eye. Host Jason Yeh dives into the secret sauce of crafting a compelling narrative that not only wows investors but also ensures your story gets shared effectively. In this episode: 💡 Discover the critical importance of a concise story that grabs attention 💡 Learn why your pitch deck is more than just a visual aid—it's your investor's roa...

A Wyoming Success Story ( Heather Shoemaker / Language I/O - Ep 32)

January 16, 2024 08:00 - 1 hour - 60.8 MB

2023 was a tough year to fundraise. Almost all venture-backed founders felt the toll of being in a  down market this past year.  But when you're a female engineer, on top of that a female founder of a tech company - it almost always feels like a tough year to fundraise.  For Heather Shoemaker, Founder and CEO of Language I/O, she never expected to fundraise. She ran a profitable company and was growing steadily each year from her headquarters in Cheyenne, Wyoming!  But as we know - things...

TBC: Should Founders Try Again With Investors Who've Passed? (TBC58)

January 11, 2024 08:00 - 6 minutes - 5.54 MB

In this episode, we explore the wisdom behind reconnecting with investors who previously passed on your pitch.   Remember, investor passes aren't personal; they often stem from timing or fit issues.   Before reconnecting, update your narrative with progress highlights.   When reaching out, exude confidence without begging.   Showcase your growth, increasing investor interest, and upcoming fundraising round.   These reconnections aren't just about securing funding; they're opportuni...

TBC: Don't Fall Into The Builder's Trap (TBC57)

January 04, 2024 08:00 - 5 minutes - 5.13 MB

In this Backchannel episode, Jason tackles a familiar trap for founders: productive procrastination!   From fixing pages to creating automations, it's easy to get caught up in tasks that feel productive but aren't top priorities for fundraising.   I get it, working on things you enjoy is crucial, but as a founder, your plate's overflowing.   Listen to this episode to hear Jason's insights on how to distinguish between enjoyable distractions and high-leverage tasks that drive real progr...

Fundraising EQUALS Hard Work (Bobby Pinero / Levels - Ep 31)

January 02, 2024 08:00 - 1 hour - 59.4 MB

Not every entrepreneur starts off knowing what business they want to create. For Bobby Pinero, Co-founder and CEO of Equals, it took him 8 years of building Intercoms Finance Organization to the success it is today until he found the product he wanted to create.   Best part? He is building the product he always wished he had while working there.   In today's episode we dive into Bobby's background, how he decided on Equals, and ultimately the trials and tribulations that went along with ...

TBC: The Similarities Between Real Estate and Fundraising (TBC56)

December 28, 2023 08:00 - 7 minutes - 7.25 MB

Have you ever compared fundraising with real estate? Once you do, you'll be shocked by their similarities. In today's episode, Jason gives a real life example of how he discovered just how similar they are. While having to find a new renter for his home, he realized how he still needed to build momentum, keep options open, and communicate the value of the property in a way that grasped others attention. He even learned the lesson of not getting too ahead of yourself, and to keep running ...

TBC: The Need For Support in Fundraising (TBC55)

December 21, 2023 08:00 - 7 minutes - 7.17 MB

For a topic that seems to be "cliche", it sure is important.   What if we were to tell you that getting support around your fundraise is one of the best ways to guarantee success?   As founders, you are automatically biased toward your own product.   That means you are also biased toward your pitch, deck, and any other materials you might share with an investor.   In this episode, Jason dives into 3 areas of fundraising you should be getting support around, and why it's so important....

TBC: CEOs Should Always Be the Ones to Pitch (TBC54)

December 14, 2023 08:00 - 5 minutes - 4.83 MB

Who should be the one to pitch - the CEO or the outgoing salesman?   In today's episode of The Backchannel, Jason explains why he believes the CEO should always be the one pitching to investors.   Although there might be a few exceptions, investors are looking to get to know the person who is running the ship and making the big decisions.   A salesman sells the vision, the CEO is the one who executes on it.   Remember: investors bet on the jockey, not just the horse.   See you next...

TBC: Explaining "The Money Round" (TBC53)

December 07, 2023 08:00 - 6 minutes - 6.32 MB

In this Back Channel episode, we're diving into the elusive "money round" investors adore.   So what is it?   To sum it up, the "money round" is the round before a valuation spike.   Investors are searching for crystal-clear milestones and confident execution that screams, "Next round, here we come!"   How do you do that?   Make sure to watch the full episode where Jason dives into the details.   See you next week!   --   If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab o...

TBC: Preparing For a Pitch Competition (TBC52)

November 30, 2023 08:00 - 5 minutes - 4.83 MB

Working with founders it's safe to say Jason has seen a lot of pitches, good and bad.   Not to mention he himself has pitched quite a bit in his past as a VC-backed founder.   In that time, he's learned what to do and not to do.‍   In this episode, Jason gives some practical tips around how to make the most of your pitch for a pitch competition.   Enjoy the episode!‍   --   If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and in...

TBC: Data Rooms - What You Need to Know (TBC51)

November 27, 2023 16:21 - 7 minutes - 7.23 MB

There's a lot of talk about data rooms in the startup world - but a lot of founders struggle to understand what a data room actually is.   In today's episode, Jason discusses their purpose in validating a startup's pitch for investors.   On top of that, he explains when and how to share a data room effectively.   Founders, if you're even slightly confused around how to properly use your data room to help you get funded - watch this episode!   --   If you're looking for more fundrai...

TBC: Pitching VCs Through a Screen (TBC50)

November 16, 2023 08:00 - 6 minutes - 6.1 MB

In this episode, we're unraveling the mystery behind Zoom-based pitches – a critical skill in the post-March 2020 startup landscape.   Jason takes us on a journey, reminiscing about the pre-COVID days of in-person meetings, shaking hands, and engaging conversations.   Ever wondered why some pitches feel like a Broadway show while others are just a mundane PowerPoint affair?   Today, he shares the secret sauce: making your Zoom pitch more of a dialogue and less of a presentation.   Fo...

TBC: Launch Before You're Ready (TBC49)

November 09, 2023 08:00 - 5 minutes - 4.84 MB

Slow and steady doesn't always win the race.   In this episode of The Backchannel, we dive into a unique perspective on startup success that's not just about fundraising but about building a thriving business.   Jason emphasizes the importance of launching your startup before you think you're ready.   Forget about striving for perfection—what you really need is to get something out there and start chatting with customers.   Find out how launching before your masterpiece is complete n...

TBC: How to Grow Your Network FAST (TBC48)

November 02, 2023 07:00 - 4 minutes - 4.14 MB

In this episode of The Back Channel, we've got a cool fundraising hack for you.   Ever thought about hosting networking dinners to amp up your investor connections?   Sure you won't become best friends overnight, but these connections create a sense of mutual support for one another.   Plus, it might surprise you how similar the process of setting up a networking dinner is to setting up a fundraise.   If you're tired of feeling like you have no way of growing your network - this epis...

TBC: Importance of CRM Systems When Fundraising (TBC47)

October 26, 2023 07:00 - 4 minutes - 4.51 MB

One of the hard truths of fundraising is that most founders don't have nearly enough investors added to their target lists.   Some stop at 20, others even less.   In all reality, you should AT LEAST be targeting 100.   And if you're going to be targeting that many, one of the things you are going to need is a CRM system.   Having a database for tracking your communications is one of the best ways to run a tight process and stay organized when meeting with investors.   In this episo...

TBC: Pre-seed vs. Seed - What's the difference? (TBC46)

October 19, 2023 07:00 - 6 minutes - 6.35 MB

Pre-seed vs. seed.   It seems there are more and more terms coming out, but no one fully knows what they mean.   My guess is even most investors don't actually know the difference.   Nevertheless, it's good to get an overall understanding of what the world of venture capital means by these two closely associated terms.   In this episode, Jason outlines the key differences between seed and pre-seed while also explaining how to answer this seemingly hard question from investors: "Are y...

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