Monday, November 06, 2006

Why VCs don't invest

A former colleague of mine, Paladin Partners' Janis Machala. spoke at a recent event in Seattle and laid out the top ten reasons why VCs choose not to invest.

1.) Saying the company has no competition.

2.) Saying you will do an IPO or be bought in next year or two.

3.) Saying the financial numbers are conservative.

4.) Saying that this will be the last round of private capital needed.

5.) Arrogant entrepreneurs.

6.) The executive team doesn't have "skin in the game."

7.) No focus on milestones.

8.) Unreasonable valuations or terms.