Funded - How They Raised Millions

There is one thing that almost every single entrepreneur has in common - the drive to change the world in some way, shape, or form.

For today's guest, she spent years of her career working for organizations like Doctors Without Borders and the United Nations, living overseas and funding entrepreneurs who were trying to make a difference in their communities.

Stacy Edgar is the co-founder and CEO of Ventuer, a company revolutionizing the healthcare space. To date, Ventuer has raised a total of $7.72M in venture funding. $120k of that being a pre-seed round from Techstars, the other $7.6M coming from the seed round they closed in August of 2023 led by GSR Ventures. 

In this episode Stacy shares some of her stories from raising her seed round as well as her success with open enrollment and the hard decisions they had to (and continue to have to) make while raising and scaling the business. Make sure to listen to the full episode!

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If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter

In this episode of The Backchannel, the host delves into the intricacies of lead investors versus co-leads, breaking down the key distinctions and red flags to watch out for. 

Learn why securing a dedicated lead investor holds paramount importance in navigating the complexities of fundraising, and gain valuable insights into the potential pitfalls of co-lead arrangements. 

Tune in for an informative exploration of investment dynamics and strategic considerations to think about before considering getting a co-lead. See you next week!

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If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter

Join us in this episode for an insightful discussion on pattern recognition in venture capital and its impact on underrepresented founders. 

The host dives into the power dynamics of pattern matching, exploring how VCs use this tool to make investment decisions while shedding light on its potential biases. 

From the imprecision of pattern recognition to strategies for overcoming its limitations, this episode offers practical insights for both founders and investors. 

Listen in for a solid conversation on leveling the playing field in startup funding.

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If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter

While most kids were occupied with typical childhood activities, today's guest was already knee-deep in the world of technology. From coding PHP to deconstructing old computers with his pops, his early passion for innovation set the stage for an extraordinary entrepreneurial journey.

Fast forward to the present, Igor Marinelli stands as the visionary co-founder of Tractian, a cutting-edge machine intelligence company that has gained significant attention in the startup ecosystem. With an impressive $63 million in funding raised within just four years, including a substantial $45 million Series B led by renowned investor General Catalyst, Igor's achievements are nothing short of awe-inspiring.

Join us as we delve into Igor's insightful narrative, exploring the pivotal moments that shaped his entrepreneurial trajectory and propelled Tractian to success.

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If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter

In this episode, the host tackles a common yet often misunderstood slide in pitch decks: the "use of funds" slide. 

Many founders include it because they've heard it's necessary, but often it ends up being a vague waste of space. 

Instead, use this slide strategically to outline where you are today, your future goals, and how the allocated funds will be specifically utilized. 

By anchoring it in concrete objectives and clear allocation, you not only inform investors but also demonstrate a thoughtful plan for executing with the capital raised. 

So, next time you're crafting a use of funds slide, ensure it serves a purpose and isn't just a filler in your deck!

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If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter

In this episode of the Back Channel, Jason shares a fresh approach to email communication that's both personal and impactful.

Learn how to craft emails with a punchy, genuine tone while including a business-focused appendix for all the important details.

Say goodbye to lengthy, synthetic emails and hello to increased response rates. 

Listen and discover the power of the email appendix and revolutionize your communication style!

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If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter

In the last two decades, the startup industry has seen remarkable transformations, from the emergence of angel investors and venture capital firms to the rise of SaaS, cryptocurrencies, and the global diversification of the field.

But what's even more exciting is the increasing presence of female founders, who, despite facing challenges, are making significant strides in entrepreneurship.

Today, we're chatting with Joanna Strober, a founder who's witnessed this industry shift firsthand. From being one of the few women in venture capital to securing venture backing for her first company (which was later acquired by Weight Watchers), and raising a total of $39M for her latest venture, Midi Health, Joanna's journey is nothing short of inspiring.

Curious about what it was like being apart of a changing industry? Listen to find out.

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If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter

In this episode of The Back Channel, we delve into a crucial post-fundraising topic: choosing service providers for your startup.

While it may seem mundane, the decision-making process can greatly impact your business. 

Key takeaways include filtering for providers with startup expertise, considering the additional value they offer beyond their core services, and trusting your instincts about the working relationship.

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If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter

Join Jason Yeh on The Back Channel as he demystifies thesis-driven firms. They may not be as rigid as you think! 

Ever wondered why these firms love their theses? It's not just about focus; it's also a way to say "no" graciously when a deal doesn't spark joy. 

Plus, it can also be used for flexibility! Some startups may not seem thesis-fit, but if you dig deeper, they'll find intriguing connections to make the deal work.

Don't be afraid to engage with thesis-driven firms. Look beyond the thesis, explore their portfolio, and you might discover hidden opportunities!

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If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter

Just like with any skill, there are beginners, and there are experts. Through practice and experience, the experts become exceptional at what they do.

In fundraising, there are also experts. You could call them the "seasoned vets" of venture capital. These are the founders that have raised all the way from small angel rounds to Series B and beyond. It's safe to say that any founder who's raised over 4 rounds of venture capital knows a thing or two about fundraising.

Today, I get to share my conversation with one of those fundraising experts.

Dylan Beynon is a 3x Founder who has raised hundreds of millions of capital throughout his career. His most recent venture is Mindbloom, a company that provides at-home psychedelic care that transforms mental health which he has raised over $50M across 3 rounds for.

Dylan's success with Mindbloom is amazing, but his why is even better. Get your tissues, this one might pull on your heart strings...

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If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter

In this episode, Jason shares a conversation with a founder who recently raised capital but had to close their startup.

First-time founders, remember that every setback is a chance to improve. Closing a startup isn't the end; it's a chance to evolve.

Once you've felt the grind and tasted success and failure, your perspective changes. You gain insights you can't find in books or tweets.

It's also important to note that venture capitalists value founders who've been through the startup rollercoaster. Understanding the ups and downs is what sets you apart.

Share this episode with fellow founders or friends on going through a tough time with their startup. 

Embrace the learning process - see you next week!

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If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter

Ever wondered why your startup story and pitch deck need to be razor-sharp? 

Sure, you want to impress investors, but there's more to it than meets the eye. Host Jason Yeh dives into the secret sauce of crafting a compelling narrative that not only wows investors but also ensures your story gets shared effectively.

In this episode:

💡 Discover the critical importance of a concise story that grabs attention

💡 Learn why your pitch deck is more than just a visual aid—it's your investor's roadmap.

💡 Uncover the hidden power of making your story easy to share, especially in firms with multiple decision-makers
 

Ready to be convinced to tighten up your pitch?

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If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter

2023 was a tough year to fundraise. Almost all venture-backed founders felt the toll of being in a  down market this past year. 

But when you're a female engineer, on top of that a female founder of a tech company - it almost always feels like a tough year to fundraise. 

For Heather Shoemaker, Founder and CEO of Language I/O, she never expected to fundraise. She ran a profitable company and was growing steadily each year from her headquarters in Cheyenne, Wyoming! 

But as we know - things change. Competitors come, and there's things you have to do in order to keep moving forward. In Heather's case that meant going out to raise her first venture round. 

It took awhile, and she met some very interesting VCs along the way, but eventually she ran into the right people and closed her seed round. 

In this episode, we get to dive into Heather's fundraising journey and how that ultimately led her to raise Language I/O's $8M Series A in July of 2023.

Stick around towards the end and you'll also get to hear from some of Heather's investors from Wyoming VC!
 

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If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter

In this episode, we explore the wisdom behind reconnecting with investors who previously passed on your pitch.

Remember, investor passes aren't personal; they often stem from timing or fit issues.

Before reconnecting, update your narrative with progress highlights.

When reaching out, exude confidence without begging.

Showcase your growth, increasing investor interest, and upcoming fundraising round.

These reconnections aren't just about securing funding; they're opportunities to refine your pitch and bolster credibility.

Ready to reconnect and ace that pitch?

Go ahead and give this episode a listen!

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If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter

In this Backchannel episode, Jason tackles a familiar trap for founders: productive procrastination!

From fixing pages to creating automations, it's easy to get caught up in tasks that feel productive but aren't top priorities for fundraising.

I get it, working on things you enjoy is crucial, but as a founder, your plate's overflowing.

Listen to this episode to hear Jason's insights on how to distinguish between enjoyable distractions and high-leverage tasks that drive real progress.

Prioritize your focus and avoid falling into the "builder's trap"!

Keep building, but build smart!

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If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter

Not every entrepreneur starts off knowing what business they want to create. For Bobby Pinero, Co-founder and CEO of Equals, it took him 8 years of building Intercoms Finance Organization to the success it is today until he found the product he wanted to create.

Best part? He is building the product he always wished he had while working there.

In today's episode we dive into Bobby's background, how he decided on Equals, and ultimately the trials and tribulations that went along with raising a $16M Series A from one of the top VC firms out there - Andreessen Horowitz.

If you're looking to see what Bobby is up to, find his information below:

Bobby Pinero

• Twitter: @bobbypinero
• LinkedIn: Bobby Pinero

Equals

• Twitter: @heyequals
• LinkedIn: Equals
• Website: equals.com

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If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter

Have you ever compared fundraising with real estate?

Once you do, you'll be shocked by their similarities.

In today's episode, Jason gives a real life example of how he discovered just how similar they are.

While having to find a new renter for his home, he realized how he still needed to build momentum, keep options open, and communicate the value of the property in a way that grasped others attention.

He even learned the lesson of not getting too ahead of yourself, and to keep running a process until the papers are signed.

Listen to the full episode to learn more about the similarities between fundraising and real estate and how you can use this analogy yo help your fundraise.

See you next week on The Backchannel!

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If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter

For a topic that seems to be "cliche", it sure is important.

What if we were to tell you that getting support around your fundraise is one of the best ways to guarantee success?

As founders, you are automatically biased toward your own product.

That means you are also biased toward your pitch, deck, and any other materials you might share with an investor.

In this episode, Jason dives into 3 areas of fundraising you should be getting support around, and why it's so important.

See you guys next week on The Backchannel!

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If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter

Who should be the one to pitch - the CEO or the outgoing salesman?

In today's episode of The Backchannel, Jason explains why he believes the CEO should always be the one pitching to investors.

Although there might be a few exceptions, investors are looking to get to know the person who is running the ship and making the big decisions.

A salesman sells the vision, the CEO is the one who executes on it.

Remember: investors bet on the jockey, not just the horse.

See you next week!

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If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter

In this Back Channel episode, we're diving into the elusive "money round" investors adore.

So what is it?

To sum it up, the "money round" is the round before a valuation spike.

Investors are searching for crystal-clear milestones and confident execution that screams, "Next round, here we come!"

How do you do that?

Make sure to watch the full episode where Jason dives into the details.

See you next week!

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If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter

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If you're looking for more fundraising content, grab our weekly newsletter packed full of strategies and insights around how to raise money: fundedpod.com/newsletter