Be prepared. Last time, we talked about the importance of communication. Tip number four means, as every Boy Scout knows, successful effort is all about preparation. If you are pitching venture capitalists, you need to bring your “A Game” based on thorough preparation. Here are tips that may sound rudimentary and obvious, but if ignored [...]

In prior posts, we introduced our Ten Points When Seeking Venture Capital and covered : Be realistic. Be persistent. Point 3. Communicate. Let the venture capital funds know what you’re doing. Keep them informed on developments, both in your company, and in the industry segment you hope to dominate.

In our prior post, we introduced our Ten Points When Seeking Venture Capital and covered the first, Be realistic. Point 2. Be persistent – very persistent. The venture capital business model assumes founders will face many obstacles as their businesses grow. This is one reason why the valuations they place on early-stage companies are so [...]

I have watched the venture capital market place for over 25 years. I’ve represented venture funds in the formation process, and in their investment activities. I have represented companies that received venture capital, and many that did not. I also started a company that raised $10 million in angel money and professional venture capital. The [...]

The perils of DIY drafting. Remember the classic Monty Python skit? Eric Praline (John Cleese) walks into the Post Office to get a fish license for his pet halibut (also named Eric) and gets into an argument with the man behind the counter (Eric Idle). Here is an excerpt*: Praline (pulling out his “cat license” [...]

Please check out my guest column in RichmondBizSense today, Friday, September 25, 2009. In a nutshell, I explain (1) why I think billable hours are a poor way to price legal services, (2) what needs to be done about it, and (3) why it’s important to Richmond. I throw in a little historical background to [...]

Do you promise not to tell, Whoa . oh oh Closer, let me whisper in your ear…. (Lennon/McCartney)* A recent article in the Virginia Gazette tells the story of a local technology company that is suing its former employees for $3.5 million for the theft of trade secrets. Many business owners are unaware that in [...]