Michael Cline, Founding Partner at Accretive Technology Partners, reminds entrepreneurs that when raising money they should not let the form of the presentation?the showmanship?overwhelm their substance, which is in essence how they create real value for a customer.

Michael Cline and Jason Green, Founding Partners at Accretive Technology Partners and Emergence Capital respectively, argue that when raising money, entrepreneurs should raise enough money to get past essential proof points in the business. Furthermore, Green emphasizes that entrepreneurs should be focused on raising enough money to flush out the key risks in the business.

Michael Cline, Founding Partner at Accretive Technology Partners, suggests that when fundraising, the venture partner is much more important than the financial terms. However, Cline qualifies this advice by suggesting that you pick a venture partner much like you would want your daughter to pick a husband. Not only does the commitment, capability and integrity of the investing partner matter but so does your importance to and relationship with the larger venture firm.