Startup Financing

The term "lead investor" is often misunderstood. I have seen VCs negotiate to be called a co-lead or a lead in the term sheet. But you don't get given that designation. You earn it.

Entrepreneurs are the nation's economic heroes -- dedicated people who are a critical factor in the resilience of the U.S. economy. Even in an environment of doubt, they are prepared to take the risk of investing to grow their companies -- and that growth equals more jobs.

Both founders and investors are, in many cases, paying way too much attention to reverberations within the venture echo-chamber instead of just making good, sensible plans consistent with their missions. Don't cede control of your destiny to the oscillating waves of popular thought.

Revenue-based financing can be a great option for profitable companies looking for a straightforward way to raise funding without dilution, change of control, or a personal guarantee.

Last night I gave a talk hosted by SVB at their Palo Alto office. I had a ton of fun talking to and answering questions from about 75 entrepreneurs who -- at the minimum -- enjoyed eating the great food and wine that SVB provided on a luscious evening in Palo Alto. Several questions came up about Convertible Debt.