Alejandro Cremades

𝗔 𝗕𝗲𝗴𝗶𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗿’𝘀 𝗚𝘂𝗶𝗱𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝗩𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘂𝗿𝗲 𝗖𝗮𝗽𝗶𝘁𝗮𝗹 This guide provides a detailed overview of the venture capital ecosystem, helping founders navigate the complexities of securing VC funding. Key insights include: 1️⃣ Where VC Money Comes From: Learn how venture funds are backed by pension funds, endowments, and high-net-worth individuals. 2️⃣ How VCs Operate: Understand the structure of venture funds, including the roles of General Partners (GPs) and Limited Partners (LPs). 3️⃣ VC Decision-Making: Explore how VCs source deals, evaluate opportunities, and decide which startups to fund. 4️⃣ Economic Dynamics: Gain insights into VC compensation, including management fees, carried interest, and return structures. 5️⃣ Things to Consider: Assess if venture capital aligns with your startup’s growth trajectory, funding needs, and long-term goals. PS. check out 🔔 for a winning pitch deck the template created by Silicon Valley legend, Peter Thiel https://lnkd.in/ejp-Bhnu

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Steel Atlas Ventures Aims to Link Western Startups with Saudi Investment in $10M Debut Fund Steel Atlas, a New York-based venture firm founded by Cameron Porter and Talal Attieh, has raised its first $10 million fund to connect Western technology startups with Saudi Arabian investment opportunities. The firm, established last year, plans to invest between $750,000 and $1.25 million per startup, focusing on climate-tech, industrial, and AI sectors. Steel Atlas’s portfolio currently includes innovative firms like nuclear energy company TRANSMUTEX, supply chain tech provider GenLogs, and alternative battery tech company Group1.ai, all aiming to align with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 economic diversification program. “Our portfolio investments are less than a year old and we are therefore still actively working with them in the region,” the firm said. “We view this alignment as being driven by two increasingly important factors: global geopolitical realignment and mutual technological interests,” Porter stated, referring to Saudi Arabia’s role as a “counterpoint” to Iran. Backers of the fund include private investment firms such as Christian Angermayer’s Apeiron Investment Group and Magnus Rausing’s Untitled. The Saudi government’s commitment to advancing industrial, climate, and AI technologies aligns with Steel Atlas’s goals, with Saudi funding providing potential capital reliability and scale-up locations for Western startups amid a sluggish U.S. market. Steel Atlas is also planning a Middle Eastern holding company to invest in regional industrial projects tied to its portfolio technologies. While not mandating Saudi deployment, the firm foresees Saudi Arabia’s market as a significant opportunity, anticipating developments in nuclear and supply chain tech soon. ✅ Looking to raise capital for your #VCfund and increase the international pool of your LPs?   🤝 Need warm #LP introductions?   📝 Selling #secondaries to increase liquidity?   🧐 Looking for co-investments (Series A/Series B)?   ▶ Please use G+QUANT's link for inquiries and fund decks, or send an inquiry to [email protected] #VentureCapital #SaudiInvestment #ClimateTech #AI #IndustrialInnovation #Vision2030 #SteelAtlas #TechFunding

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Why Buying Your First Business is the hardest & Financing The Fear is Being seen as too risky by lenders and investors. The Solution: Prepare a solid business plan with detailed financial projections. Work with a financial advisor to enhance your credibility. Consider alternative financing options like SBA loans or seller financing.

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𝗘𝗮𝗿𝗹𝘆 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝗴𝗲 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝗿𝘁𝘂𝗽 𝗩𝗮𝗹𝘂𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 Stephen R. Poland’s guide simplifies the complexities of valuing early-stage startups. Key takeaways include: 1️⃣ Valuation Basics: Understand pre-money and post-money valuations and their implications for founder ownership. 2️⃣ Investor Questions: Be prepared to answer queries about market size, traction, competition, and your team’s experience. 3️⃣ Valuation Methods: Explore the Market Comparison Method, VC Quick Method, and Risk Reduction Method to align valuations with your startup’s stage. 4️⃣ Dilution Awareness: Learn how each funding round impacts founder equity and the importance of negotiating fair terms. 5️⃣ Talking to Investors: Master the art of presenting valuation expectations and negotiating effectively. PS. check out 🔔 for a winning pitch deck the template created by Silicon Valley legend, Peter Thiel https://lnkd.in/ejp-Bhnu

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An entrepreneur's passive income checklist: 1. Create once, sell infinitely • Online courses • Digital products • Templates and tools 2. Automate your sales process • Survey your audience • Segment them effectively • Deliver personalized sequences 3. Build multiple income streams • Service • Products • Communities • Sponsorships (A great order to operationalize) 4. Leverage existing content • Repurpose blogs into ebooks • Turn Webinars into courses • Compile posts into guides 5. Scale with systems, not time • Use project management tools • Outsource non-core tasks • Implement customer service automation Remember: Passive income isn't about "not working." It's about disconnecting your time from your earnings. Your goal: Put revenue creation on auto-pilot while you do other stuff. I've done this for the last 5+ years on LinkedIn, grown to 625K+ followers, and $8.3M in revenue. Here's my exact playbook: https://lnkd.in/eh9pVVuf What's one way you're working towards passive income in your business?

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👋 Dear Founder, Capital efficiency is the game of the decade. 🎲 VC funding is super tight, so as a founder you have to think differently. 💡 I'm going to give you a massive hint: Partnerships and Alliances. 🤝 1. Channel partners can take on sales costs, reducing your upfront expenses and extending your runway. You focus on product, they drive sales. 📈 2. Technology partnerships allow you to integrate new capabilities without the burden of in-house development. Build, Buy, or Partner? 🤔 3. Co-marketing initiatives with partners can amplify your brand reach without burning through your marketing budget. 🔥 In this challenging economic environment, partnerships are an absolute must. 🌍 Operate leaner, grow smarter, and leverage your ecosystem to get ahead. 🚀 Keep killing it! 💪

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Venture Capital Fundraising Deck Template: Carta and Kauffman Fellows present a comprehensive venture capital fundraising deck template to guide General Partners (GPs) in attracting limited partners (LPs). Here’s what to include: 1) Background: Highlight the unique qualifications and track record of your team. LPs are investing in the people as much as the strategy. 2) Differentiators: Showcase what makes your fund stand out—whether it’s your access to networks, industry expertise, or proprietary methodologies. 3) Investment Thesis: Present your vision for the market, future trends, and how your fund will capitalize on these opportunities. 4) Track Record: Include metrics like IRR, multiples, and past successful investments to demonstrate your fund’s potential for generating returns. 5) Terms: Outline the economic terms, including fund size, management fee, carried interest, and target raise. PS. check out 🔔 for a winning pitch deck the template created by Silicon Valley legend, Peter Thiel https://lnkd.in/ejp-Bhnu

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🔎Investing in Deep Tech? Not yet...🤦‍♂️ Check below why you should consider investing in Deep Tech startups and VC funds🤝 💡Hint: Deeptech VCs achieved an IRR of 17% in comparison to traditional Tech VCs IRR of 10%, according to a McKinsey & Company survey of 115 Deeptech VCs and 1,572 traditional Tech VC funds Thanks to Francesco Perticarari for sharing ✅ Looking to invest your capital into #VC funds?   🤝 Need warm #GP introductions?   📝 Selling #secondaries to increase liquidity?   🧐 Looking for co-investments (Series A/Series B)?   ▶ G+QUANT's link for inquiries: https://lnkd.in/gjC_EuTE     #VentureCapital #VentureFunding #VentureDebt #Fundraising #Innovation #Technology #Entrepreneurship #Investing #Network #Investors #LPs #GPs #EmergingManagers #FamilyOffice #Markets #Economy #Business #Founders #Startups #StartupFunding #ai #artificialintelligence #unicorn #secondaries #secondarydeals

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This guide outlines the funding journey from Pre-Seed to Series C and beyond: - Pre-Seed: Focus on concept, team, and initial validation. - Seed: Prove market fit and scalability. - Series A: Demonstrate revenue growth and user base. - Series B: Scale operations with solid financials. - Series C+: Prepare for major expansion and exit strategies. Insight: Each funding stage builds on the previous one. Early rounds focus on validation and product-market fit, while later stages emphasize scaling and financial stability. The goal is to show continuous growth and potential to attract investors. Subscribe to ‘Siliconnector’ Telegram channel for insights and news from Tech world and Silicon Valley: https://t.me/siliconnector

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https://buff.ly/46dCF4M A Comprehensive Guide for Pitch Decks (Investor Deck) Versions provides valuable insights into crafting effective presentations for potential investors. This resource covers essential elements like market analysis, financial projections, and competitive landscape assessment. It emphasizes the importance of clear communication and compelling storytelling to engage investors. Additionally, it offers tips on structuring the deck for maximum impact, utilizing visuals effectively, and tailoring the content to the target audience. Understanding these principles can significantly increase the chances of securing funding for your business. #PitchDecks #InvestorRelations

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Guide to Angel, Venture Capital, and Private Equity: Whether you're a founder seeking early-stage investment or an entrepreneur looking to scale up with private equity, this guide provides a comprehensive roadmap through the stages of equity financing. Key Highlights from the Guide: 1) Sources of Equity Financing: Learn about the distinctions and roles of angel investors, venture capital funds, corporate venture capital, and private equity funds. 2) Investment Criteria: Understand the specific criteria each investor type considers when evaluating startups and how to position your business accordingly. 3) Stages of Company Growth: Differentiate the financing needs at various stages, from seed capital and Series A funding to late-stage private equity investments. 4) Business Plan Essentials: Tailor your business plan with the information investors look for, including market potential, competitive advantage, and financial projections. 5) Exit Strategies: Explore the variety of exit options available, such as IPOs, strategic sales, or founder buybacks, and how to prepare for them. PS. check out 🔔 for a winning pitch deck the template created by Silicon Valley legend, Peter Thiel https://lnkd.in/ejp-Bhnu

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💰Contour Venture Partners Raises $42M for Fifth Fund 💼 Introduction: Contour Venture Partners, a New York-based seed investor known for early investments in companies like Datadog and Movable Ink, has raised $42 million for its fifth fund. The firm is targeting $90 million for this flagship fund and has been actively fundraising since May 2023. 💡Key Points: - **Fundraising Progress**: The firm closed on $42 million from 64 backers, aiming for a total of $90 million. It had previously raised $20 million as part of a parallel fund. - **Market Context**: Fundraising has been challenging for venture funds recently, with overall venture fundraising down more than 50% last year compared to 2022’s record-breaking numbers. 📝Investment Strategy: - **Check Sizes and Focus**: Contour writes checks between $500,000 and $1.5 million, primarily leading rounds in seed and early-stage companies. It focuses on sectors like SaaS, digital media, and financial services, with a preference for companies based in New York or the Northeast. - **Track Record**: Despite not having a massive war chest, Contour has a strong investment track record. Notable successes include:  - Datadog: Early investment in 2011, which IPO'd in 2019 with a $7.8 billion valuation.  - OnDeck: Invested in 2006, went public in 2014 with a $1.3 billion valuation.  -Pendo: Active portfolio company, raised over $460 million, valued at $2.6 billion.  - Movable Ink: Content personalization startup, raised nearly $100 million, valued at $1.3 billion. 👩‍👩‍👧‍👦Firm Background: - **Founders and Leadership**: Contour was founded in 2005 by Matt G. and Bob Greene, who continue to lead the firm. - **Capital Raised**: Over its nearly 20-year history, the firm has raised more than $370 million across four flagship funds and three opportunity funds. 🕯Conclusion: Contour Venture Partners continues to make significant strides with its fifth fund, demonstrating resilience and strategic prowess in a challenging fundraising environment reported TechCrunch. ✅ Looking to raise capital for your #VCfund and increase the international pool of your LP #investors?   🤝 Need warm #LP introductions?   📝 Selling #secondaries to increase liquidity?   🧐 Looking for co-investments (Series A/Series B)?   ▶ G+QUANT's link for inquiries and fund decks: https://lnkd.in/gjC_EuTE #VentureCapital #ContourVenturePartners #StartupFunding #Datadog #MovableInk #InvestmentStrategy #SeedFunding #TechInvesting

Question 1 are you #vc fundable? Question 2,do you want to take #vc money....👇🏾 before you enter the VC path assess if, with VC money, you can grow your business at least 10x larger compared to a bootstrap patch (to compensate the dilution from VCs); otherwise, stay away from VCs and focus on sustainable growth with a clear short-time path to profitability (even at the expense of rapid growth).

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How I raised $40 million from VCs After 15 years and 3 startups I know their Pain Points So I tailor my pitching solving VC pain points Fundraising isn’t luck; it’s preparation and precision. To help you know what VC want I am sharing 15 things you must have Master these 15 key steps to stand out to investors. 1. Craft your unique narrative: Share your potential vividly. 2. Construct a savvy business plan: Reveal your deep market understanding. 3. Create an outstanding team: Reflect unity and fill gaps. 4. Display your MVP: Your proof of concept matters. 5. Be diligence-ready: Have all documents prepared. 6. Design a clear exit strategy: Show your foresight. 7. Master your pitch: Perfect your delivery. 8. Build connections: Start networking early. 9. Know your investors: Tailor your pitch to their interests. 10. Persevere: Fundraising is a marathon. 11. Expect objections: Prepare for tough inquiries. 12. Pivot readiness: Be flexible to market shifts. 13. Uphold a growth mindset: Embrace continuous learning. 14. Maintain a digital presence: An online footprint speaks volumes. 15. Stay authentic: Investors back people, not just ideas. Venture Capital is more than just a checklist. It's a captivating vision fueled by a solid strategy and undying grit. P.S. What’s the one tip you’d add to this list? ♻️ Repost to interact with other networks ✅ Download my Investor Due Diligence Checklist → https://lnkd.in/d6Xm4wzE

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𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗙𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗿'𝘀 𝗚𝘂𝗶𝗱𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝗩𝗖 𝗙𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲 A must-read resource for navigating venture capital deals, designed to empower founders with actionable insights. Key Takeaways: 1️⃣ Understand Convertible Notes & Equity: Master the tools of early-stage financing and how they impact your startup’s growth. 2️⃣ Option Pools & Valuation: Learn how option pools work and their effect on ownership and company valuation. 3️⃣ Antidilution Strategies: Explore advanced strategies to protect your stake during future funding rounds. PS. check out 🔔 for a winning pitch deck the template created by Silicon Valley legend, Peter Thiel https://lnkd.in/ejp-Bhnu

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🚀 Unlocking Startup Success: 7 Secrets Behind User-Friendly Terms of Service Having dissected 100+ startup Terms of Service, I've uncovered game-changing strategies: 🗣️ They speak human: Clarity is king. Top startups ditch legal jargon for language users grasp easily. 🔍 They're scannable: Headers, bulleted lists, and short paragraphs make for a user-friendly read. 🔍 They're specific: No more vague terms. Precise definitions ensure no room for confusion. 🔍 They're transparent about data: Open discussions on data usage build trust with users. 🔍 They're adaptable: Future-proofing with clear update processes is the name of the game. 🤝 They're fair: Striking a balance between company protection and user rights is crucial. 🔍 They're accessible: Easy-to-find ToS with summaries boost user trust and loyalty. 💡 Insight: User-friendly ToS = ⬆️ Trust ratings & ⬇️ Churn rates. Coincidence? I think not. 🤔 What's your ToS experience? Any trends you've spotted? Share below and level up your startup game!

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𝗙𝘂𝗻𝗱𝗿𝗮𝗶𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗬𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗯𝗶𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗼𝗿 𝗪𝗮𝘆: 𝗟𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗼𝗻𝘀 𝗙𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝗮 𝗦𝘂𝗰𝗰𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗳𝘂𝗹 𝗣𝗿𝗲-𝗦𝗲𝗲𝗱 𝗥𝗼𝘂𝗻𝗱 Early-stage fundraising can be tough, but applying these key principles from YC alumni can make all the difference: 1️⃣ Clarity and Conciseness: Keep your pitch and responses short, clear, and focused on the essentials. 2️⃣ Sell Your Team: Emphasize your team’s domain expertise and past accomplishments to build investor confidence. 3️⃣ Persistence Pays Off: Don’t be discouraged by rejection. Every “no” brings you closer to that critical “yes.” PS. check out 🔔 for a winning pitch deck the template created by Silicon Valley legend, Peter Thiel https://lnkd.in/ejp-Bhnu

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