Becoming a Unicorn: Insights from Bessemer & Toast on Ecl

Toast's Growth and Navigating the Pandemic

Toast is currently valued at over $5 billion, having secured more than $900 million in funding since its inception. The restaurant point-of-sale (POS) service has experienced significant expansion. However, the question remains: how did the company successfully maneuver through the unprecedented challenges of the pandemic era for the restaurant industry?

An Upcoming Discussion on Extra Crunch Live

The answers will be revealed during an upcoming episode of Extra Crunch Live, scheduled for May 26th at 3pm ET. This session will feature Aman Narang, president and co-founder of Toast, alongside Kent Bennett, a partner at Bessemer Venture Partners.

Meet Kent Bennett

Bennett, based in Bessemer Venture Partners’ Cambridge office, specializes in investments related to consumer products, services, and software. Prior to his venture capital career, he served as a creative executive at Licht Entertainment, an entertainment production firm.

His investment portfolio includes notable companies such as Bevi, Blue Apron, Xtime, and Toast.

Aman Narang's Background

Before co-founding Toast, Narang dedicated seven years to Oracle and Endeca. During this time, he contributed to the development of their business intelligence and mobile commerce platforms.

He established Toast in 2011 and has since overseen its growth, continually enhancing the restaurant POS system with new functionalities and features.

Series B Deal and Collaboration

During Extra Crunch Live, Narang and Bennett will discuss the origins of their collaboration, specifically focusing on Bessemer’s leadership in Toast’s Series B funding round. They will also explore the rationale behind Bennett’s initial investment in Toast.

The conversation will delve into their ongoing partnership, how they’ve addressed obstacles, and resolved disagreements. There's even a possibility of viewing Toast’s original Series B pitch deck.

Extra Crunch Live Pitch-off

Following the discussion, the event will transition into the Extra Crunch Live Pitch-off. Audience members will have the opportunity to present their ideas live on the show, receiving direct feedback from Bennett and Narang. Participation requires live attendance; registration is available here for free!

Accessing Extra Crunch Live

Extra Crunch Live is a freely accessible event. However, exclusive access to the complete archive of ECL episodes, filled with valuable insights on building and funding successful ventures, is reserved for Extra Crunch members.

Don't miss the opportunity to join the conversation with Narang and Bennett on Wednesday, May 26th at 3pm ET/noon PT. Register now!