Extra Crunch Roundup: StockX, IPOs & More | TechCrunch

Recap of TechCrunch Early Stage Conference Insights

In recent days, a series of articles summarizing key panels from last week’s TechCrunch Early Stage virtual conference have been released.

These reports stem from interviews conducted with founders and investors, addressing frequently encountered challenges faced by startups.

The discussions largely centered around the methods and reasons behind critical decisions.

Common Startup Questions Addressed

Questions such as how to secure a place in an accelerator program, when to expand by adding a sales force, and the most effective strategies for attracting investor interest were prominent.

Kleiner Perkins Partner Bucky Moore's Advice on Series A Funding

TechCrunch journalist Natasha Mascarenhas engaged in a conversation with Bucky Moore, a partner at Kleiner Perkins, to gather advice applicable to founders preparing to raise a Series A round.

Moore emphasized that the prevailing business landscape has been permanently altered by the pandemic, stating, “Initial meetings conducted via Zoom are likely to remain standard practice, as they offer a significant increase in efficiency.”

Accessing Full Conference Content

While anticipation builds for the resumption of in-person TechCrunch events, each Early Stage recap provides both video recordings and complete transcripts.

Comprehensive articles are exclusively available to Extra Crunch subscribers.

Closing Remarks

Thank you for your readership, and best wishes for a wonderful weekend.

Walter Thompson
Senior Editor, TechCrunch
@yourprotagonist

Access to complete Extra Crunch articles requires a membership.
Utilize the discount code ECFriday for a 20% reduction on one- or two-year subscriptions.

StockX EC-1: A Deep Dive

The idiom "buying a pig in a poke" originates from the medieval era.

It describes a scenario where a traveler purchases a concealed piglet, only to discover a cat upon opening the bag.

The potential for receiving inauthentic goods during online purchases is a significant concern, particularly for items like sneakers, jewelry, and luxury apparel.

This risk prompted StockX, an online marketplace, to develop a comprehensive system for product verification and authentication.

Over 10 million transactions have been facilitated on the platform to date, involving sneakers, handbags, streetwear, watches, and other exclusive, limited-edition products.

StockX maintains price stability through regulated pricing and transparent transaction records, contributing to its $2.8 billion valuation.

Extra Crunch recently released a four-part series examining this innovative market category, which initially started as a sneaker price tracking project.

Series Breakdown

• Part 1: The evolution of StockX into a marketplace for sought-after items.
• Part 2: An examination of StockX’s authentication processes and the ongoing battle against fraudulent activity on a global scale.
• Part 3: Analyzing StockX’s position within the broader sneaker industry.
• Part 4: Exploring the implications of expanding sneaker culture.

The series provides a detailed analysis of StockX’s operations and impact.

It investigates how the platform has addressed the challenges of authenticity and scalability in a rapidly growing market.

Is Topps’ Entry via SPAC Set to Fuel Further NFT Market Growth?

The renowned baseball card manufacturer is preparing to become a publicly traded company through a special purpose acquisition company (SPAC). This move is widely interpreted as a strategic avenue for investors to gain exposure to the rapidly expanding NFT market.

Essentially, it provides a method to participate in the digital collectibles trend without the direct need to purchase cryptocurrencies.

Understanding the SPAC Route

A SPAC, or special purpose acquisition company, is a shell corporation listed on a stock exchange with the sole purpose of acquiring a private company.

This process offers a faster and often simpler path to going public compared to a traditional initial public offering (IPO).

Topps and the Digital Collectibles Space

Topps has already made significant inroads into the NFT realm with its digital collectibles platform, Topps Digital Collectibles.

The company has released a series of successful NFT drops featuring iconic baseball players and moments.

• These digital collectibles offer fans a new way to own and trade pieces of sports history.
• The platform leverages blockchain technology to ensure authenticity and scarcity.

The public listing via a SPAC is expected to provide Topps with the capital needed to further expand its NFT offerings and reach a wider audience.

Impact on the NFT Market

Topps’ public debut could serve as a catalyst for increased investment and mainstream adoption of NFTs.

The company’s established brand recognition and loyal fan base could attract new participants to the digital collectibles market.

Furthermore, the move may encourage other traditional collectibles companies to explore opportunities in the NFT space, potentially leading to further innovation and growth.

Potential Benefits for Investors

Investing in Topps through the SPAC offers investors a unique opportunity to gain exposure to both the traditional collectibles market and the burgeoning NFT market.

The company’s existing infrastructure and expertise in collectibles could provide a competitive advantage in the digital space.

An In-Depth Look at the Alkami Technology IPO

While the pace of new technology company public offerings has decreased, it hasn't entirely halted. Despite reports of a weakening IPO market, certain companies are still moving forward with their plans.

Alkami Technology is now among those companies, alongside anticipated listings such as Coinbase’s direct listing and the expected IPO of Robinhood.

Based in Texas, Alkami Technology provides its software solutions to banks through a cloud-based delivery model. This distinguishes it from older companies attempting to capitalize on the recent surge in IPO activity.

A detailed examination of Alkami Technology’s most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is now warranted.

The Growing Trend of Alternative Protein Startups in China

A significant surge in interest surrounding alternative protein sources occurred in China during the previous year. Over ten startups successfully secured funding with the goal of producing plant-based proteins to address the nation’s rising demand for meat.

Key Players in the Chinese Alternative Protein Market

Companies like Starfield, Hey Maet, Vesta, and Haofood have been operating for approximately one year. ZhenMeat has a slightly longer history, having been established three years ago. Additionally, Green Monday, a Hong Kong-based company with nine years of experience, is actively expanding its presence into mainland China.

Increased Competition

The competitive landscape became even more dynamic last year with the entry of established American companies, Beyond Meat and Eat Just, into the Chinese market.

Market Outlook and Investor Sentiment

While some investors have expressed concerns that the rapid growth in the number of meat-alternative startups could potentially lead to a market bubble, a contrasting viewpoint suggests the market still has considerable room for expansion.

The potential for growth is substantial, indicating that the current level of competition does not necessarily signify market saturation.

Alternative protein is becoming increasingly important in China due to rising meat consumption.

Here's a breakdown of the companies mentioned:

• Starfield: A relatively new entrant focused on plant-based protein.
• Hey Maet: Another startup contributing to the growing sector.
• Vesta: Developing alternative protein solutions for the Chinese market.
• Haofood: Focused on providing plant-based alternatives.
• ZhenMeat: An established player with a three-year history.
• Green Monday: Expanding from Hong Kong into mainland China.
• Beyond Meat: A US-based company entering the Chinese market.
• Eat Just: Another US-based company expanding its reach to China.

LG's Departure from the Smartphone Arena Was Anticipated

The announcement of LG’s withdrawal from the smartphone market doesn't shock industry observers. The company had been a significant innovator in the mobile space for more than ten years.

LG will be recalled with appreciation by those familiar with the evolution of mobile technology. It was a key participant in the Android ecosystem and instrumental in developing numerous features now considered commonplace.

A History of Innovation and Challenges

Despite consistently attempting to redefine boundaries – though not always successfully – LG ultimately found itself unable to maintain a competitive edge.

The South Korean technology conglomerate revealed this week its decision to exit the fiercely competitive smartphone sector. This strategic shift will allow the company to concentrate resources on its diverse range of other business units.

The company’s focus will now be directed toward areas where it can more effectively leverage its strengths and expertise. This includes growth in other sectors of the electronics industry.

Looking Ahead

LG’s exit signifies the increasing consolidation within the smartphone industry. Maintaining profitability in this market requires substantial investment and a relentless pursuit of innovation.

Competition remains intense, with a handful of major players dominating global sales. LG’s decision reflects the challenges faced by companies striving to differentiate themselves in this crowded landscape.

The move allows LG to reallocate resources and pursue opportunities in areas such as electric vehicle components, smart home devices, and robotics.

Extending the Lifespan of EV Batteries: A Path to Sustainability and Revenue

Electric vehicles (EVs), encompassing both cars and trucks, present numerous advantages. These include the absence of tailpipe emissions, quieter operation, and often, more spacious and aesthetically pleasing designs due to their inherent architecture.

However, the lithium-ion batteries that power these vehicles are subjected to considerable stress. Factors like fluctuating charge and discharge patterns, extreme temperature exposure, and frequent partial charging cycles contribute to battery degradation within a timeframe of five to eight years.

Ultimately, these batteries require either replacement or end up at recycling centers.

Rather than immediately directing used batteries to recycling for raw material reclamation – a process that overlooks potential economic benefits – both emerging companies and established automakers are exploring avenues for battery reuse.

This is fostering a nascent, yet expanding, market focused on second-life applications.

The Challenges of Battery Degradation

As batteries age within EVs, their capacity diminishes. This means they can no longer reliably provide the range required for vehicle operation.

However, this doesn’t signify the end of their usefulness. A significant amount of energy storage capacity typically remains even after a battery is deemed unsuitable for automotive use.

Second-Life Applications: Where Used EV Batteries Excel

These batteries are proving valuable in a variety of secondary applications. These include:

• Energy Storage Systems (ESS): Used batteries can be integrated into grid-scale energy storage, helping to stabilize the power grid and support renewable energy sources.
• Residential Power Backup: They can provide backup power for homes, offering resilience during outages.
• Commercial Buildings: Similar to residential applications, they can support energy management and provide backup power for businesses.
• Charging Stations: Repurposed batteries can be used to buffer the load at EV charging stations, reducing strain on the grid.

The economic viability of these applications is increasing as battery prices remain high and demand for energy storage grows.

Automakers are increasingly involved in these second-life initiatives, recognizing both the sustainability benefits and the potential for new revenue streams.

Avoiding Common Startup Pitfalls: Insights from Fuel Capital’s Leah Solivan

At TechCrunch Early Stage 2021, Leah Solivan, General Partner at Fuel Capital, discussed strategies for circumventing frequent errors encountered during startup development.

Solivan brings a wealth of practical knowledge to the table, having both established TaskRabbit and overseen its successful acquisition by Ikea in 2017.

She presented a comprehensive list of ten potential pitfalls, and the following represents a selection of key areas to be mindful of.

1. Premature Scaling

A common mistake is to scale operations before achieving product-market fit. Focus initially on validating your core offering with a specific customer segment.

Expanding too quickly can dilute resources and hinder the refinement process necessary for long-term success.

2. Neglecting Unit Economics

Founders often overlook the importance of understanding their unit economics. This involves meticulously tracking the costs associated with acquiring and serving each customer.

Without a clear grasp of these metrics, it’s difficult to build a sustainable and profitable business model.

3. Hiring Too Slowly (or the Wrong People)

Delaying key hires can stifle growth, but rushing the process can be equally detrimental. Prioritize individuals who possess both the necessary skills and a strong cultural alignment.

A misaligned team can lead to internal friction and decreased productivity.

4. Ignoring Customer Feedback

Actively soliciting and incorporating customer feedback is crucial for iterative improvement. Don't build in a vacuum; continuously validate your assumptions with real users.

This iterative approach ensures the product evolves to meet actual market needs.

5. Lack of Focus

Startups often attempt to do too much too soon. Maintaining a laser-like focus on a core set of features and a defined target market is essential.

Avoid spreading resources too thinly across multiple initiatives.

6. Poor Financial Modeling

Developing a robust financial model is vital for forecasting and decision-making. This model should account for various scenarios and key assumptions.

Accurate financial projections are essential for attracting investment and managing cash flow.

7. Founder Conflict

Disagreements among founders are inevitable, but unresolved conflict can be crippling. Establish clear roles, responsibilities, and communication protocols from the outset.

Addressing issues proactively is key to maintaining a healthy working relationship.

8. Underestimating the Time Commitment

Building a startup is incredibly demanding, requiring significant time and energy. Be prepared for long hours and unexpected challenges.

Realistic expectations are crucial for avoiding burnout and maintaining motivation.

9. Avoiding Difficult Conversations

Delaying tough conversations with investors, employees, or customers can exacerbate problems. Transparency and direct communication are paramount.

Addressing issues head-on fosters trust and builds stronger relationships.

10. Not Seeking Mentorship

Leveraging the experience of seasoned entrepreneurs and advisors can provide invaluable guidance. Actively seek out mentors who can offer support and perspective.

Learning from others’ mistakes can significantly increase your chances of success.

Leveraging a Comprehensive Viewpoint: Decision-Making for Founders with EchoVC’s Eghosa Omoigui

Eghosa Omoigui, founding partner and managing general partner at EchoVC Partners, provides guidance to entrepreneurs during the crucial initial phases of company formation and foundational development.

Omoigui champions the idea that founders should cultivate what he terms an “All-22 tape” perspective. This analogy draws from professional football coaching, where the All-22 tape provides a simultaneous view of all players on the field.

This comprehensive view enhances a coach’s situational awareness and, crucially, prevents the oversight of significant movements or individual players.

According to Omoigui, as shared during the TC Early Stage virtual event, this principle is directly transferable to the startup ecosystem.

He detailed the meaning of possessing an “All-22 tape” mindset and outlined the necessary steps for founders to cultivate a skillset enabling them to analyze and comprehend their business strategy from every angle.

The All-22 Tape Analogy in Startups

The All-22 tape represents a founder’s ability to see the complete picture of their business. It’s about understanding all the moving parts and potential influences.

This includes market dynamics, competitive landscapes, internal team capabilities, and potential risks. A founder with this perspective can anticipate challenges and opportunities more effectively.

Without this holistic view, critical details can be missed, leading to flawed decisions and potentially jeopardizing the company’s success.

Developing the All-22 Tape Skillset

Omoigui suggests several strategies for founders to develop this crucial skillset.

• Seek Diverse Perspectives: Actively solicit feedback from mentors, advisors, and even competitors.
• Data-Driven Analysis: Rely on data and metrics to inform decisions, rather than solely on intuition.
• Scenario Planning: Consider multiple potential outcomes and develop contingency plans.
• Continuous Learning: Stay informed about industry trends and emerging technologies.

By consistently applying these practices, founders can improve their ability to identify blind spots and make more informed strategic choices.

Ultimately, the goal is to build a robust understanding of the business environment, allowing for proactive adaptation and sustainable growth.

Establishing and Managing an Initial Sales Force: Insights from Zoom CRO Ryan Azus

At this year’s Early Stage event, TechCrunch interviewed Ryan Azus, Zoom’s Chief Revenue Officer, regarding the development of nascent sales teams.

Azus gained prominence for his stewardship of Zoom’s revenue generation throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.

However, his prior experience in constructing RingCentral’s North American sales division from its inception uniquely positioned him to discuss the challenges of building an early-stage sales organization.

Key Discussion Points

The conversation centered around crucial topics for founders.

These included determining the appropriate moment to delegate sales leadership, cultivating a productive sales culture, and strategies for diverse recruitment.

Further areas of focus were selecting target customer segments and developing a comprehensive sales playbook.

• When to Delegate Sales: Understanding the founder’s role evolution.
• Sales Culture: Establishing a high-performing and collaborative environment.
• Diverse Hiring: Building a team that reflects a broad range of perspectives.
• Customer Segmentation: Identifying and prioritizing the most promising customer groups.
• Sales Playbook: Creating a repeatable and scalable sales process.

Azus’s insights provide valuable guidance for startups navigating the complexities of early sales team construction.

His experience highlights the importance of strategic planning and a deliberate approach to building a successful sales organization.

Navigating Bug Bounty Programs: Insights from Katie Moussouris

Katie Moussouris has been a prominent figure in the cybersecurity landscape since the nascent stages of many leading technology corporations.

She played a key role in establishing the initial vulnerability disclosure and bug bounty programs within these organizations.

Currently, Moussouris leads Luta Security, a consultancy specializing in guiding both companies and governmental bodies.

Her expertise lies in facilitating effective communication with ethical hackers and outlining the necessary steps for constructing and refining vulnerability disclosure programs.

Key Takeaways for Startups

During her presentation at TC Early Stage, Moussouris detailed the essential practices startups should adopt – and avoid – when establishing a security program.

She also clarified the order in which priorities should be addressed to maximize effectiveness.

Understanding these principles is crucial for startups aiming to proactively manage their security posture.

• Prioritize Vulnerability Disclosure: A clear process for receiving and addressing vulnerability reports is paramount.
• Bug Bounties as a Supplement: Consider bug bounty programs as an addition to, not a replacement for, internal security efforts.
• Legal Considerations: Ensure your program's terms and conditions are legally sound and clearly defined.

Moussouris emphasized that a well-structured program fosters trust and collaboration with the security research community.

This collaborative approach ultimately strengthens the overall security of the startup’s products and services.

TechCrunch Sets Sights on Detroit with Upcoming Virtual Event

A virtual journey to Southeast Michigan is scheduled, with a focused spotlight on the city of Detroit.

The event will highlight Detroit as a burgeoning hub for innovation and entrepreneurship.

Why the Focus on Detroit?

Detroit is the base of operations for prominent companies like StockX and Rivian.

Beyond these well-known names, a significant number of medical technology firms, financial technology startups, and cybersecurity businesses are establishing themselves in the region.

Several factors are driving this transformation, including robust investor activity, a comparatively affordable cost of living, and the presence of prestigious universities.

These universities boast a strong track record of fostering entrepreneurial endeavors.

Event Details

Individuals interested in the Detroit ecosystem, those considering relocation to a promising city, or investors seeking innovative companies and founders are encouraged to participate.

Registration is now open, and the event is slated for Thursday, April 15.

Navigating Startup Accelerators: A Comprehensive Guide

Considering applying your company to a startup accelerator program? Determining the optimal stage for your concept and team is crucial before initiating the application process.

Furthermore, understanding how to differentiate your application amidst a large pool of candidates, and the level of polish required for accompanying video submissions, are key considerations.

Expert Insights from Neal Sáles-Griffin

To gain valuable perspectives, we consulted with Neal Sáles-Griffin, the Managing Director at Techstars Chicago and an adjunct professor at Northwestern University.

His extensive experience provides a wealth of knowledge regarding the startup ecosystem.

Assessing Readiness for an Accelerator

Sáles-Griffin emphasizes that accelerators aren't necessarily the ideal path for every startup. He suggests that a strong product-market fit is more valuable than simply participating in a prestigious program.

Many founders mistakenly believe acceptance into a top accelerator automatically guarantees success. However, the reality is that the program itself doesn't create success; it amplifies existing momentum.

Ideal Startup Stage

Generally, accelerators are best suited for companies that have already validated their core idea and possess a minimum viable product (MVP).

Having some initial traction, even if it's limited to a small user base, demonstrates that there's genuine interest in the proposed solution.

Crafting a Compelling Application

The application process is highly competitive, with many accelerators receiving applications from thousands of startups.

To stand out, focus on clearly articulating the problem you're solving, your proposed solution, and the potential market opportunity.

Key Application Components

• Problem: Define the pain point you are addressing.
• Solution: Explain how your product or service resolves this issue.
• Market: Demonstrate the size and potential of your target market.
• Team: Highlight the skills and experience of your founding team.

Sáles-Griffin notes that accelerators are primarily investing in the team, not just the idea. A cohesive and capable team is paramount.

The Application Video: Keeping it Authentic

While a polished video can be beneficial, excessive production value isn't necessarily required.

Authenticity and clarity are more important than high-end visuals. The video should concisely convey your startup's core value proposition.

Focus on Substance Over Style

Avoid overly scripted or promotional content. Instead, focus on genuinely communicating your passion for the problem you're solving and your vision for the future.

A simple, well-lit video with clear audio is often more effective than a flashy, but poorly executed, production.

Navigating Fundraising Terminology for Emerging Startups

Dawn Belt, a partner at Fenwick & West and experienced business attorney, recently participated in TechCrunch Early Stage to clarify common fundraising terms that often present challenges for entrepreneurs new to the process.

Ms. Belt’s extensive experience includes significant roles in prominent Silicon Valley transactions. This encompasses Proterra’s recent public listing through a SPAC merger, alongside initial public offerings for companies like Bill.com and Facebook.

Key Concepts in Early Funding Rounds

She focused her discussion on fundamental concepts such as equity and the right of first refusal, detailing their importance during the initial phases of securing startup funding.

• Equity represents ownership in the company. It’s a crucial element in determining how value is distributed among founders and investors.
• The right of first refusal grants existing shareholders the opportunity to purchase new shares before they are offered to outside investors.

Understanding these terms is vital for entrepreneurs to effectively negotiate and protect their interests during fundraising.

Properly navigating these concepts can significantly impact a startup’s long-term success and control.

The Importance of Legal Counsel

Belt emphasized the value of seeking experienced legal counsel throughout the fundraising journey.

A skilled attorney can help entrepreneurs understand the implications of each term and ensure a fair and beneficial agreement.

This proactive approach can prevent potential issues and safeguard the startup’s future.

Bootstrapping, Product-Led Growth, and Fundraising Timing

Currently, product-led growth is a dominant strategy within Silicon Valley. Two prominent experts recently shared insights on integrating this approach into startups during TechCrunch Early Stage 2021.

Tope Awotona, founder and CEO of Calendly, successfully bootstrapped his company for a significant period. This was before securing $350 million in funding at a $3 billion valuation, with investments from OpenView and Iconiq.

Blake Bartlett, a partner at OpenView, participated in the discussion. He specializes in enterprise deals founded on the tenets of efficient growth principles.

Key Discussion Points

The conversation covered several crucial areas for startups. These included the benefits of bootstrapping, implementing product-led growth strategies, and navigating international expansion.

Awotona and Bartlett also explored the optimal timing for seeking funding versus continuing to bootstrap. They addressed how venture capitalists evaluate profitable companies, often with a cautious yet assertive approach.

Furthermore, the discussion touched upon the strategic allocation of a substantial $350 million investment.

• Bootstrapping allows for greater control and ownership.
• Product-led growth focuses on the user experience as the primary driver of acquisition.
• Careful consideration is needed when deciding when to fundraise.

Understanding these elements is vital for startups aiming for sustainable and scalable success.

Four Approaches to Capturing Investor Interest

Achieving success as an early-stage investor necessitates more than merely recognizing emerging trends. A proficient venture capitalist must demonstrate foresight and anticipate future developments.

Marlon Nichols, founder of MaC Venture Capital, exemplifies this ability, having identified promising companies such as Gimlet Media, MongoDB, Thrive Market, PlayVS, Fair, LISNR, Mayvenn, and Wonderschool in their nascent stages.

Insights from Marlon Nichols

Nichols recently appeared on TechCrunch Early Stage to share his methodologies for early-stage investment.

He also detailed how these strategies can be adapted to facilitate a successful launch for aspiring entrepreneurs.

His insights offer valuable guidance for those seeking to secure funding and build thriving businesses.

Establishing an Effective Management Board: Insights from Dave Easton

The processes of board member selection and corporate governance often appear opaque, especially within the context of a startup environment.

Dave Easton, a partner at Generation Investment Management, recently addressed the topic at TechCrunch Early Stage. His presentation focused on guiding founders through the process of constructing a board of directors.

Easton specifically emphasized building a board that fosters a productive and sustainable working relationship. His extensive experience, both as a full board member and an observer, provided valuable clarity on the principles of sound governance.

Key Considerations for Founder-Led Board Construction

Founders often underestimate the importance of proactive board building. A well-structured board can provide invaluable guidance and support.

Conversely, a poorly constructed board can become a source of conflict and hinder a company’s progress. Careful consideration must be given to each appointment.

The Importance of Diverse Perspectives

Easton highlighted the need for a board comprised of individuals with varied backgrounds and expertise. This diversity of thought is crucial for effective decision-making.

Diverse perspectives help mitigate blind spots and ensure a more comprehensive evaluation of opportunities and challenges.

Selecting Board Members: Beyond Expertise

While relevant experience is essential, Easton cautioned against solely focusing on technical skills. Personality and cultural fit are equally important.

A board member’s ability to collaborate constructively and offer candid feedback is paramount. Look for individuals who can challenge assumptions respectfully.

Governance as a Long-Term Investment

Effective corporate governance isn’t merely a compliance exercise; it’s a strategic investment in the company’s future.

Establishing clear roles, responsibilities, and communication protocols from the outset can prevent misunderstandings and build trust.

Melissa Bradley's Guide to a Successful Virtual Pitch Meeting

The shift to virtual pitch meetings via platforms like Zoom accelerated during the pandemic. Interestingly, many investors now plan to continue utilizing this format even with increasing vaccination rates.

Preparing for Your Zoom Pitch

Founder, investor, and business school professor Melissa Bradley recently shared valuable insights with Jordan Crook regarding effective preparation for Zoom-based pitches.

Bradley emphasized the importance of meticulous preparation before the meeting begins. Founders should anticipate potential questions and refine their responses accordingly.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Several common mistakes can derail a virtual pitch. Avoiding these is crucial for making a positive impression.

• Technical Difficulties: Ensure a stable internet connection and test your audio and video beforehand.
• Distractions: Minimize background noise and visual clutter.
• Lack of Engagement: Maintain eye contact (look at the camera) and actively listen to investor questions.

Time Management During the Meeting

Effective time allocation is paramount in a virtual pitch. Bradley suggests a structured approach.

Prioritize conveying the core value proposition early in the meeting. Investors need to quickly understand the problem you're solving and your proposed solution.

Allocate sufficient time for Q&A. This demonstrates your preparedness and willingness to address investor concerns.

Remember to leave a few minutes at the end to summarize key takeaways and outline next steps.

The Enduring Impact of Virtual Pitches

The prevalence of Zoom pitches has fundamentally altered the fundraising landscape. Founders who master this format will be well-positioned for success.

Bradley’s advice provides a roadmap for navigating the nuances of virtual pitches and maximizing your chances of securing funding.