Both Sides of the Table

MARCH 24, 2014

As a result I didn’t write my first venture capital check until March 2009 – exactly 5 years ago. It turns out it actually takes time to build a high-growth business with differentiated intellectual property and roll out large, enterprise-class marketing solutions. 5 years ago. 5 years ago. The monkey on my back.

Venture Capital 387

Venture Capital Downey Writing Press 387

Startup Professionals Musings

NOVEMBER 7, 2010

The investor must see this class of investment as completely discretionary, where all of the money may be lost, but the experience will be one that the investor benefits from and enjoys nonetheless. A trophy investor is a great coach and mentor, sometimes providing the only shoulder an entrepreneur can cry on during difficult times.

Entrepreneur 83

Entrepreneur Mentor Invest Angel 83

Both Sides of the Table

SEPTEMBER 8, 2010

I finally got around to writing it having read Fred Wilson’s post about what a CEO does. If you want to attract world class talent you have to be inspirational, persuasive and persistent (they best people always have other offers). Both are basically people businesses.

Venture Capital 319

Venture Capital Startup Sales Customer 319

Both Sides of the Table

JUNE 2, 2011

Thiel and friends will also agree to mentor these young entrepreneurs. Here is their inaugural class. Actually, they’ll get even more attention because this selection will put them in an even more exclusive peer group and will introduce them to even more connected mentors. So is this a good idea? My 2 cents: 1.

Education 322

Education Startup Incubator Class 322