💡 Startups are all about daring to do what others say is impossible—just like Elphaba in Wicked. Whether you’re challenging industry norms or creating something completely new, remember: to succeed, you often have to “defy gravity.” Ready to take your idea to new heights? 🎭 Check out Wicked in theaters- now playing- for a little inspiration (and an epic soundtrack)!
5 Wicked Lessons for Founders…
Ideas are a dime-a-dozen .. follow Inspiration with ACTION
The musical is based on the 1995 novel Wicked: The Life and Times of the Wicked Witch of the West by Gregory Maguire. Composer Stephen Schwartz was inspired to adapt Wicked after reading Gregory Maguire’s novel during a flight. Upon landing, he immediately contacted Maguire to secure the rights.
Build to scale: a lesson in longevity
Wicked’s creators have definitely found product-market-fit. Wicked is one of Broadway’s longest-running shows, having premiered on October 30, 2003, at the Gershwin Theatre. Its Broadway debut grossed over $1.7 million in opening week, setting a record at the time, and consistently ranks as one of the highest-grossing shows in history. Building on that success, Wicked continues to add innovative revenue streams, including the newly released live action movie. Let’s celebrate the creators and change-makers who build lasting impact, not just illusions!
Prioritize the Customer Experience, even when it’s hard
Director of the new Wicked movie, Jon M. Chu insisted on building large-scale physical sets for Wicked rather than relying heavily on CGI, including a 16-ton moving train, growing nine million tulips to authentically depict Munchkin Land, and building elaborate structures like the Emerald City and Shiz University.
This commitment to provide a tangible and immersive experience for the actors and audience mirrors how startups can stand out by prioritizing authentic, customer-centric solutions over shortcuts or flashy but insubstantial features. For startups, this is a reminder that the extra effort to create something “real” can yield a uniquely impactful product.
How to Nail Your Dream Role (or Goal): Lessons from Ariana Grande
Ariana Grande’s path to playing Glinda in Wicked is a masterclass in setting goals and sticking to them. She first saw the musical at age 10 and declared it her dream role. Fast forward to today, and she’s living that dream in the movie adaptation.
For founders, her story is a reminder that vocalizing your goals and staying focused can pay off. Whether it’s pitching to investors until you get a “yes”, or refining your products until you find product-market-fit, persistence is key. Just like Ariana waited for her moment to shine, your breakthrough might be right around the corner.
You are Capable of Defying Gravity: Lessons from Cynthia Erivo
Cynthia Erivo isone of the rare artists to be an EGOT contender, having won a Tony, Grammy, and Daytime Emmy. She’s one Oscar away from the full sweep, and uses her platform to advocate for diversity, inclusion, and women’s empowerment in the arts.
Cynthia Erivo’s portrayal of Elphaba in Wicked is a testament to perseverance, innovation, and breaking barriers. Known for her meticulous approach to storytelling, Erivo has redefined the character with distinct physicality and emotional depth, proving that reinvention can honor tradition while forging new paths.
For founders, Erivo’s journey reminds us that resilience and authenticity are key to building something extraordinary. Just as she reshaped an iconic role to reflect her truth, entrepreneurs can create innovations that challenge norms and leave a lasting impact.
There’s no rest for the wicked, nor often for startup founders. However, I suggest you take a break and go see Wicked now playing in theaters! Keep defying gravity, founders. You got this.
Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude, turkey, and… unsolicited advice from family members. As you pass the stuffing, the inevitable happens: your drunk uncle asks, “So, what exactly is this startup thing you’re doing?” Suddenly, you’re faced with the challenge of explaining your big idea to someone who thinks TikTok is just the sound a clock makes. Whether you’re eager to share your entrepreneurial vision or simply trying to survive the dinner table discussion, there’s a right way—and a very wrong way—to navigate this conversation. In this blog, we’ll explore the do’s and dont’s of pitching your startup during Thanksgiving, ensuring that your business dreams don’t get roasted alongside the sweet potatoes. So, grab a glass of wine (but maybe not as much as Uncle Joe’s had), and let’s dive in!
Do’s:
Keep it light and simple.
Start with a casual approach. “Hey, Uncle Joe, I’ve got this cool idea…”
Keeping it conversational while approaching the subject is key to grabbing his attention. Your uncle doesn’t need a deep dive into your business plan or a lecture on market disruption. Use simple, relatable language to describe your idea. Instead of saying, “We’re leveraging AI to disrupt the logistics industry,” try, “We’re building a smarter way to get packages delivered.” Clear and concise explanations will resonate more than buzzwords. Remember to be prepared! StartupNV’s Executive Director, exited founder, and seasoned investor, Jeff Saling advises: “Perfect your elevator pitch. Attention spans will be especially short and split…. and have the deal docs and wiring instructions ready to send from your phone.”
Appeal to his interests.
Find something he can relate to.
Find a way to tie your startup to something your uncle cares about or knows. If he’s into sports, explain how your idea could help fans. If he’s a foodie, mention its potential impact on restaurants. Making it relatable will keep his attention and make your pitch more memorable.
Flatter him (a little).
Drop lines like, “You’ve always been good at spotting great ideas!”
Nobody likes a know-it-all, especially your drunk Uncle Joe. So, right when he seems to be dozing off from the conversation, ask him what he thinks of your ideas and leave space for him to share his. Bouncing ideas off of one another can make the exchange feel more natural and not one-sided. Make sure to listen to his ideas and “take” them seriously.
Let him know others are excited.
Tell him why everyone is going for seconds.
From seasoned investor, Joshua Curtis, here is some advice on showing excitement and spiking curiosity if your uncle is actually a savvy investor.
“As investors, we know that you love your stuffing, if you didn’t you wouldn’t be crazy enough to be a founder, but we want to see that everyone loves your stuffing too. Show us the demand! If you’re pre-revenue show us that you’ve done in-depth market research and have feedback from potential customers that they would purchase your product at your price. If you have revenue, show us metrics that indicate positive growth and adoption. Telling us your stuffing is the best is one thing, showing us through consumer interest and adoption is the best way to get us to grab our forks and get in line.”
Stay patient and flexible.
If he derails the conversation, gently steer it back or know when to pause.
With so much good food and good company, the conversation can certainly change every now and then. It’s important to know when to steer the conversation back to the topic and when to let the conversation flow on to the next, this can also be a chance to indulge in a second slice of pumpkin pie.
Don’ts:
Don’t get overly formal.
It’s Thanksgiving, not Shark Tank. Relax and match the vibe.
Pitching can be daunting whether it’s a room full of investors or during a networking event, but remember that this is a relative! There’s no need for a blazer, a slideshow, or corporate jargon about market penetration or scalability. Instead of diving into a stiff elevator pitch as though you’re talking to venture capitalists, take a moment to read the room. Your audience is family, not investors, and the Thanksgiving table is meant for laughter and connection—not a business boardroom.
Don’t turn it into a one-sided monologue
There’s nothing worse than feeling like you’re stuck in a never-ending lecture, especially at the dinner table. If you dominate the conversation with a long-winded explanation of your startup’s mission, vision, and market potential, your uncle—and everyone else within earshot—might start tuning out. Thanksgiving is about sharing, not showboating. Instead, keep your responses brief and conversational, and let your uncle ask questions. The discussion will feel more interactive and less like a TED Talk no one asked for.
Don’t argue or get defensive.
If he says, “That’ll never work,” thank him for his thoughts and move on.
Chances are, your uncle might be unfamiliar with how your industry works but as your relative who wants to look out for you, he might be prone to pointing out the risks of your ideas instead of highlighting the positives. Make sure to avoid being defensive and instead, remind him that with great risk comes great reward.
Be careful not to over-stuff the offer just because he’s family. .
Know what your Ask is and be prepared with the deal terms you’re willing to offer ahead of time. You can find other ways to emphasize why this opportunity is special (early access to a high-potential investment).
Let’s hear from investor and StartUpNV’s Vice President, Madeline Feldman. “Don’t promise equity in the family heirlooms as part of the deal, or over-promise equity just because you’re family. Blood may be thicker than water, but it’s not thicker than gravy. Remember to keep plenty of gravy for yourself and future investors. You can always share your riches with your family once you have them … (in cash!).”
DON’T Forget the Real Reason for Thanksgiving
At the end of the day, Thanksgiving is about gratitude and togetherness, not pitching your startup.
Be thankful that you have someone to pitch to, the opportunity to innovate, and a table full of great food to eat. If the conversation starts to derail or feel tense, pivot back to the holiday spirit. Approaching these moments with humor, patience, and perspective can turn even the most chaotic Thanksgiving pitch into a story worth sharing next year. You can hope, but don’t expect Uncle Joe to become your next investor.
Conclusion
Uncles are often wild cards; a single wrong move could turn your pitch into a heated debate about cryptocurrency at the kid’s table. As tempting as it may be to pitch your next big idea to your drunk uncle at Thanksgiving, it’s important to strike the right balance between enthusiasm and respect for the holiday setting. Remember, building support for your idea is a marathon, not a sprint, and the holidays are best enjoyed with laughter, good food, and meaningful connections.
Save the full pitch for a more appropriate time. Perhaps… during StartUpNV’s favorite day of the week, Pitch Day! Pitch Day happens every other Wednesday at the International Innovation Center in Downtown Las Vegas, and virtually from anywhere in Nevada,at 2pm. Catch the next one on December 4th, @ 2pm. You can also apply to pitch here.
Are you a budding entrepreneur looking for funding to launch or scale your startup? Are you a new or experienced investor, looking to become a savvy startup investor, access quality dealflow, and expand your network? If so, AngelNV is your gateway to making these ambitions a reality.
AngelNV is a thriving community of investors and entrepreneurs committed to bridging the gap between venture capital and Nevada startups. With a proven track record of success, AngelNV has facilitated millions of dollars in investments while encouraging a collaborative ecosystem of founders and funders.
Here’s everything you need to know about joining the next halo capital adventure, AngelNV5.
What Is AngelNV?
AngelNV drives capital into Nevada’s startup ecosystem through two core programs: a founder due diligence bootcamp and an angel investor academy. The founder bootcamp equips entrepreneurs with skills for fundraising, due diligence, and pitching, while the investor academy teaches new angels how to confidently evaluate startup investments. The program culminates in a grand Finale event, where 6 finalist companies pitch their companies and 2-3 receive investment. The event, attended by media and the public, celebrates Nevada’s startup ecosystem and AngelNV’s role in supporting diverse growth. All investments are shared with the AngelNV syndicate for potential additional backing and are matched dollar-for-dollar through state funding, doubling the impact.
Calling All Entrepreneurs
Are you an entrepreneur ready to take your startup to the next level? AngelNV is here to help you secure the funding you need.
Application Deadline for Funding: December 13, 2024
Education Through the 6-week AngelNV Founder Bootcamp, startup founders receive in-depth, interactive training designed to prepare them for fundraising. The program is offered in-person and virtually, making it accessible to entrepreneurs across Nevada. This free bootcamp covers critical aspects of fundraising, including crafting compelling pitch decks, understanding term sheets, mastering due diligence, and more. Participants gain access to resources such as the UNLV research library, mentorship, and ongoing support through the StartUpNV community. At the program’s conclusion, founders apply for investment via the Dealum platform, with guidance from the AngelNV team to strengthen their applications.
* Our DD bootcamp for 2024 is already complete, but will return next year and is a valuable resource to any founder who plans to raise outside capital. Register now for Fall 2025!
Funding
The Application is now open to all Nevada-based startups. Prior AngelNV investments have included companies that can demonstrate traction, through revenue or other market validation, have strong (and coachable) teams and advisors, and a product or service that is scalable to an 8-figure exit. In 2024, more than 160 companies applied for funding from AngelNV, with two receiving investment. While only a handful of companies ultimately make it to the finals, going through the due diligence bootcamp and the application process is a valuable learning opportunity.
AngelNV5 culminates in a live pitch event on March 29th, 2025, where startups compete for a significant investment prize—over $400,000 in funding! This event not only offers funding opportunities but also provides exposure to a wide variety of potential investors. Every applicant is encouraged to attend the finale to network with investors, connect with other entrepreneurs, and learn from presenters.
A Unique Opportunity for Investors
Investor Track
The AngelNV investor track brings together people who are passionate about investing in high-potential startups, offering them a platform to learn, network, and make meaningful investments. These experienced and new investors come from Reno, Las Vegas, throughout Nevada, and the western US.
Now in its fifth year, AngelNV has become a cornerstone of Nevada’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. The program combines investor education with real-world experience, allowing participants to learn the craft of smart startup investing, while potentially earning impressive returns.
In just four years, AngelNV investments have doubled their value and are on track for a 5x to 10x return on the portfolio. This success is a testament to the program’s meticulous approach to investment selection, due diligence, and ongoing founder support.
For aspiring angel investors, AngelNV is an unparalleled opportunity to learn the ins and outs of startup investing while building a portfolio of high-potential startups.
Why Join AngelNV as an Investor?
Education: Learn the fundamentals of angel investing through a structured curriculum that covers everything from deal evaluation to portfolio management.
Community: Join a network of like-minded individuals who share a passion for startups, innovation and economic development.
Returns: Participate in deals with the potential for high returns. Since 2020, AngelNV has invested over $2.5 million in Nevada startups, generating an implied return of over 2x in just four years.
Impact: Support local entrepreneurs and contribute to the growth of Nevada’s startup ecosystem.
Investment Minimum
AngelNV offers a low-risk way to dip your toe into angel investing while starting to build a portfolio of promising startups. Requiring only a $5,000 minimum investment—much lower than traditional $50-100k minimums (to invest in venture funds) or the typical $25-50k (for individual investment) required by most startups, AngelNV broadens access to angel investing in Nevada. Investors can gain exposure to startup investing, learn alongside experienced peers, and spread their risk by participating in a pooled investment—minimizing the financial barrier to entry and maximizing the learning opportunity.
At least 40 investors will invest $5,000 (and donate $500/ea for fund administration and fees), resulting in at least $200,000 to invest in one company at the finale. If more than $200k is raised, the angels can decide to invest in additional finalists, or invest the entire amount into their top choice. All investments are shared with the AngelNV syndicate for potential additional backing and are matched dollar-for-dollar through state funding, doubling the impact.
Investor Participation
Starting January 14th, 2025, investors will attend sessions weekly for 11 weeks, leading up to the grand finale. All sessions are held remotely, with a number of in-person mixers in Las Vegas.
Investors will review company applications and continue to narrow down the number of startups, advancing a smaller group through each round and ultimately selecting a final 6 on which to perform due diligence. Investors then select one of the finalist companies alongside fund managers and analysts, to form teams that complete extensive due diligence and present their findings weekly to the broader investor group.
After the 11 weeks, AngelNV culminates in a grand finale conference, open to the public, where finalists will pitch and angels will decide which companies will receive investment from AngelNV5!
Investors often return for future AngelNV cohorts, attend alumni events throughout the year, and continue to build their startup portfolios. AngelNV alumni are also invited to join additional investment opportunities, such as FundNV, Sierra Angels, and SyndicateNV.
To learn more or register your interest, submit this form and our team will be in touch!
Building Nevada’s Startup Ecosystem
AngelNV is more than a conference or a bootcamp—it’s a movement towards our mission of transforming Nevada into a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship.
A Rising Tide Lifts All Boats By bridging the gap between investors and entrepreneurs, AngelNV strengthens Nevada’s startup capital ecosystem. Startups gain insight into what investors want and access to much-needed capital, while investors benefit from a pipeline of well-prepared, high-potential deals.
Statewide Impact As a trusted investment partner, the State of Nevada’s SSBCI program will match AngelNV investments dollar for dollar, doubling the impact of investments. As Nevada’s startup ecosystem continues to grow, based on favorable business climate, taxes, incentives, affordability, etc., it is critical to ensure the funding, access to funding, and generational wealth scale in parallel. In combination with FundNV and SyndicateNV, AngelNV has connected over 100 investors with startup investment opportunities, resulting in 30 investments totaling nearly $30 million over less than 5 years.
Case Study – an AngelNV success story!
Startup investing is a high-risk and high-return-potential asset class. Success involves making smart investments, and making many investments. Most of your portfolio companies will fail, but the ones who succeed will make up for the losses, and then some. With each new cohort of entrepreneurs and investors, we’re confident in being able to share many more AngelNV and Nevada startup success stories in the future as the early-stage companies scale to profitability and eventual liquidity.
Dot Ai (formerly SEE ID): From AngelNV to IPO Aspirations
Dot Ai, the AngelNV2 first-place investment choice, is an exciting example of the program’s impact. Since its inception, the Nevada-based logistics tech startup has disrupted the industrial supply chain industry with AI-driven solutions that track and manage assets more efficiently than legacy systems. According to this press release, Dot Ai will become a publicly traded company within the next few months! Investors’ investments will convert to DAIC shares traded on the Nasdaq. Each $5k “share” in ANV2 will yield $20k+ in shares of DAIC, at the time of IPO. That’s a 4x+ liquidmultiple in two years! Hopefully, the shares will continue to appreciate in the future. Amazing!
Dot Ai’s Journey:
From Local Startup to National Spotlight: Dot Ai is set to go public through a merger with ShoulderUp Technology Acquisition Corp., valued at approximately $248.5 million. The merger will position the company to expand its reach and bring its innovative solutions to more industries.
Innovative Technology: Combining artificial intelligence, IoT, and cloud software, Dot Ai helps clients like the U.S. Air Force and Rooms To Go track assets in real time without significant infrastructure costs.
Rapid Growth: With an estimated $10 million in revenue for 2024 and projected bookings of $30 million for 2025, Dot Ai’s growth trajectory has been nothing short of extraordinary.
Exceptional Leadership: Under the guidance of CEO Ed Nabrotzky, a former Panasonic executive, and CXO Bill Reny,Dot Ai has assembled a world-class veteran-lead leadership team and board that includes industry heavyweights like former Airbus North America Chairman Allan McArtor.
Why It Matters: Dot Ai’s success story exemplifies the long-term potential of early-stage investment through AngelNV. By providing initial funding and resources, AngelNV investors have helped Dot Ai transform into a market leader poised for success.
Upcoming Events
Mark your calendars for these important dates:
Application Deadline for Entrepreneurs: December 13, 2024
AngelNV Conference: March 29th, 2025, Las Vegas, NV
Whether you’re an entrepreneur eager to pitch your idea or an investor ready to dive into the world of venture capital, these events are not to be missed.
Join the AngelNV Community
AngelNV is more than just a program—it’s a community of innovators, investors, and changemakers. Here’s how you can get involved:
Entrepreneurs: Apply by (deadline) for funding for your startup.
Investors: Register your interest and take the first step toward becoming an angel investor!
Everyone: Attend the AngelNV Conference to learn, network, and witness the transformative power of entrepreneurship.
Ready to take the next step? Visit AngelNV to learn more and join the movement.
AngelNV: Where Investors Become Angels, and Startups Take Flight.
