Jason Green, Founding Partner at Emergence Capital, suggests that outside Silicon Valley entrepreneurs may need to approach the fundraising process differently simply because there are fewer VCs and less capital available sometimes. Green argues that outside Silicon Valley and perhaps even in the Valley, the best course of action is to have to option to say no?that is to not raise money because the business is self sustaining.

Jason Green, Founding Partner at Emergence Capital, suggests that agents are generally not used to help raise funds in an early stage company although they may be helpful in a late-stage private equity deal. Instead, as Tom Friel, Chairman of Heidrick and Struggles, emphasizes early stage entrepreneurs are connected to VCs through informal networks of advisors who make an introduction for the entrepreneur.

Jason Green, Founding Partner at Emergence Capital, describes the common situation of an entrepreneur raising money and receiving questions about the expected valuation for the startup. Green argues that one of the biggest mistakes made by entrepreneurs is responding to this loaded question and suggests that instead entrepreneurs should just let the market decide the valuation.

Jason Green, Founding Partner at Emergence Capital, shares insights into how entrepreneurs should think about establishing an option pool. Green suggests reserving 20% to 30% of the ownership as an option pool and to think about sharing wealth in order to create a bigger pie rather than holding to tight to a smaller pie.

Jason Green, Founding Partner at Emergence Capital, speaks on how to select a venture partner. Green emphasizes that selecting a VC is a long-term partnership commitment and encourages entrepreneurs to pay attention to four things when selecting a venture partner: 1) Negotiate from a position of strength, 2) Find shared belief, 3) Listen to your instincts and 4) Pay more attention to the partnership than the terms.