Hey everyone, Happy Friday. It’s Matt Parker here with the End of the Day (EOD) show for Friday, September 6th.
Let's dive into some key topics from this week in the world of venture capital and startups.
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VC Funding is Heating Up
We're seeing a surge in funding announcements as we enter fall, traditionally an intense period for founders and funds. The funding market appears to be bouncing back, which is exciting news for the ecosystem.
Emerging Trends in Funded Founders
There's a noticeable trend towards a specific archetype of a founder getting funded. As I analyze these deal announcements, it's becoming clear that VCs are favoring a particular profile.
Notable Deals This Week
Agree.com (led by BTV.VC)
Free e-signature solution for everyone
Monetizing through backend financial services
Competing with giants like DocuSign ($12B market cap) and Dropbox's HelloSign
Nicole Wischoff's Third Fund
Solo GP raised $50M
108 first calls led to 28 commitments (25.9% conversion rate)
$38.5M (77%) came from just 6 LPs
Raised in 5 months without giving up management equity
Slauson & Co.'s $100M Fund
Pre-seed/seed stage focus ($250K to $2M investments)
The LA-centric fund led by Austin Clement and AJ Rolan
Emphasis on small business tools and culturally aligned products/services
Unique "friends and family" cohort program
Fundraising Insights
The importance of first calls and network building
Running a tight fundraising process
Finding your "whales" (big check writers) early
Book Recommendations
- Nate Silver's book on VC analysis, Chapter 5 — On the Edge: The Art of Risking Everything
"The Marathon Don't Stop: The Life and Times of Nipsey Hussle" by Rob Kenner
Upcoming Course: "How to Raise Millions for Your Startup in 60 Days" starting September 19th. Apply today if you are looking to raise venture capital or learn how it works! Use code READY for $250 off
That's all for this week's show. Check me out on X @mattaparker and TikTok and @FourInsights on Instagram and Youtube. Thanks for tuning in!
Venture Capital is Back