What benefits can you expect from building a strong VC network?

"It takes an ecosystem to raise a start-up." This includes funding, as Angels feed Accelerators that feed Seed funds and then Series A funds and beyond. The better networked the funding the better for the ecosystem as more time can be focused on building the business in Sales presentations as oppose to Investor presentations. A caveat though, In my experience if there is too much funding it can weaken the quality of the companies, as it is too easy to fund that unremarkable idea. Word of warning for Investors, do your DD, stick with your investment thesis and don't be a sheep and flock to fund a company that doesn't fit into your portfolio.

I would look beyond the archetypes of Founders and VCs, and focus on the people involved. Founders can be excellent in helping other founders find funding opportunities if they are well-connected, have raised before and built a strong reputation.

In my experience in order to fast track access the magic lies in mandate alignment, funding readiness of the SME and the willingness of the deal makers to engage directly with the company. It’s not easier than the current system, however the success rate is certainly higher.

This is a hard one. In my opinion the 2 & 20 (2% management fees and 20% profit) only works well in mature markets where there are funds over $100m. In younger and smaller markets the most valuable part of VC is the wisdom of the partners and not just the capital itself. AKA "The smart money". However the older a firm gets the more investments in the portfolio they have and the less time with the senior general partners is available for the portfolio companies. Diversity of skills, wisdom and perspective in a VC team is paramount for success. It's a catch-22. That is the problem we are seeking to solve with "Board of Wisdom" for VC's, Founders and the Ecosystem at large. Watch this space…

I absolutely agree. The network benefits all parties. And although you may have a clear investment strategy, a good network also gives the opportunity to be exposed to new strategies, especially mature exit solutions. And exit opportunities.

In my experience reputation is built through credibility. Here are some ways to build credibility. 1. Speak at conferences and events about the investment journey 2. Write content pieces and be open to share real world context 3. Don’t fear your mistakes, talk about the things that could or have gone wrong. Use these as learning tools to improve.

From my personal observations, focus on clear goals and useful exchanges to build a powerful VC network. Do some research and get in touch with important people in your field. Focus on building relationships over making deals. Show that you're interested and give helpful comments. Use the people you already know to get leads, and stay active by going to events in your field. Remember that honesty and integrity are very important. Don't lie, and treat the trust of your network with care. A strong VC network not only helps you get money and tools, but it also helps you learn, gain influence, and grow your business. Today is the first day you can start building a useful VC network. There is no friends or enemies in the capital market ??

While building a strong VC network is important, the building a strong ___ network in every field is just as important. In my experience folks, people identify with people who have empathy for their problems & are able to add value. Back when I was a founder trying to network with VCs, the thing that worked best for me was to occasionally share some interesting startups that they might find interesting as potential investment opportunities. No investor will ever say no to high quality deal-flow, esp. deal-flow coming from a founder in the trenches, so to speak. Though, be aware, when sharing something of value, put in the effort to identify what is "value to the other person", might not be the same as what is "value to you"

"Networking is not about just connecting people. It’s about connecting people with people, people with ideas, and people with opportunities". Michele Jennae, Author of The Connectworker. 98% of all deal flow for VC's come through their network. To build a strong VC network, it's a marathon and not a sprint to build up your most valuable 'social' capital. Some suggestions from young to old: 1. Proactively add value by volunteering for an event they are hosting or do some industry research on valuations. Like & Comment on their media posts. 2. Make introductions to key people. Understand their investment thesis and mandate and match these with deal flow and research. 3. Co-invest & Exit an investment. The ultimate VC 'happy ending'.

I take my hat off to the Networks of VC's. Especially those operating in the emerging frontier markets like Africa, LATAM and SEA. Essentially they are Entrepreneurs building a marketplace startup. They need supply (Capital from LP's) and demand (Deal flow of investments). Their reputation is their biggest asset and their job is keeping secrets. They are pragmatic asset managers combined with philanthropic cheer leaders. While the low interest rates allowed every crypto bro who got lucky to pivot into a VC. The real VC's are those who are the leaders of the round, the sounding board, board members and beta app testers. So let's celebrate more the VC's that celebrate their exits and not their raises! Onwards & Upwards Together! ????

Creating a strong VC network is essential for driving radical innovation and tackling humanity's massive challenges. VCs are more than financiers; they are enablers and nurturers of big, bold ideas. They help turn visionary concepts, especially in unchartered fields like space exploration, AI, and Web3/ Fintech, into reality. A robust VC network doesn't just provide capital, it offers access to a brain trust of industry leaders, thought partners, and mentors who can help navigate the unique challenges of cutting-edge ventures. These networks can also catalyze collaborations that accelerate technological breakthroughs and have a meaningful impact on the world and humanity at large,

In essence, building a strong VC network goes beyond the initial financial investment. It establishes a dynamic ecosystem that nurtures growth, provides ongoing support, and positions a startup for success in a competitive business landscape. Entrepreneurs benefit not only from the funding but also from the collective knowledge, connections, and resources that the network brings to the table.

I trust in international cooperation; same people with same interests and same understanding of the business attitude. People shall not be subject to transformation due to their business; shall be otherwise :)