It’s understandable that, amid a flurry of pitch meetings and rejections, founders might find themselves mystified about what venture capital investors want. However, according to Bessemer Venture Partners operating partner Jeff Epstein, it’s actually very simple: They want to see a business that has the potential to grow exponentially, some evidence of traction, and a concrete plan for further de-risking the enterprise. As you de-risk the enterprise, he explains, you create opportunities for larger fundraising rounds.
Related

Claire Hughes Johnson,
Stripe
Scaling Operations and People [Entire Talk]
Build a company that is ready to scale with a strong foundation of values, well-built operating structures, and a complementary team.
Video
49 minutes
Claire Hughes Johnson,
Stripe
Scaling Operations and People [Entire Talk]
Build a company that is ready to scale with a strong foundation of values, well-built operating structures, and a complementary team.

Julia Collins,
Planet FWD
Opportunities in Climate Tech [Entire Talk]
To build a sustainable future, we need to focus on decarbonization - and the climate technology market is ripe with opportunity.
Video
47 minutes
Julia Collins,
Planet FWD
Opportunities in Climate Tech [Entire Talk]
To build a sustainable future, we need to focus on decarbonization - and the climate technology market is ripe with opportunity.

Ben Collier,
The Farmlink Project
James Kanoff,
The Farmlink Project
Students Solving Hunger [Entire Talk]
As mission-driven nonprofits grow, they must stay anchored in their values and strengthen their community.
Video
50 minutes
Ben Collier,
The Farmlink Project
James Kanoff,
The Farmlink Project
Students Solving Hunger [Entire Talk]
As mission-driven nonprofits grow, they must stay anchored in their values and strengthen their community.