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.

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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.

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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.

The Entrepreneur Track

Key dates for entrepreneurs:

• Bootcamp Start Date: Complete for 2024, returning October 14th, 2025
• 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.

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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?

1. Education: Learn the fundamentals of angel investing through a structured curriculum that covers everything from deal evaluation to portfolio management.
2. Community: Join a network of like-minded individuals who share a passion for startups, innovation and economic development.
3. 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.
4. 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!

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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.

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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+ liquid multiple 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.

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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.

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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.

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AngelNV: Where Investors Become Angels, and Startups Take Flight.

LAS VEGAS (Sept. 25, 2024) – StartUpNV, a nonprofit statewide incubator and accelerator for Nevada-based startups, is again sponsoring the Las Vegas edition of Techstars Startup Week Las Vegas, Oct. 15 – Oct. 19. Techstars Startup Week is a five-day event held in cities across the world to celebrate entrepreneurship and showcase the local startup community through meetups, lectures, discussions, and celebrations.

The weeklong event is dedicated to designers, developers, and entrepreneurs who wish to share ideas, form connections, and join a thriving startup community. With the theme “What Happens Here, Scales Here,” Techstars Startup Las Vegas features three tracks of programming: Startup Capital, CommUnity, and Innovation. Daytime sessions and nightly happy hours take place in multiple venues throughout Las Vegas and are all free to attend, but registration is required at: https://startupweeklasvegas.com.

The week will offer inspiring keynote speakers, such as Geoff Ralston, successful founder and angel investor in more than 100 companies and former president at Y Combinator. Breakout sessions will cover a wide variety of topics through presentations on raising and investing capital, a discussion panel of community leaders, and numerous workshops on relevant subjects including artificial intelligence, refining a pitch, sizing a market, winning in the federal marketplace, and many more.

Many of the sessions will be led by top-tier leaders in the startup community nationwide such as:
● Brandon Ward, co-founder of DreamSAFE and owner of The WE Mentality, will lead an interactive workshop designed to enhance leadership skills and build high-performing teams. Participants will gain valuable insights into creating a positive team culture, leveraging individual strengths, and implementing leadership techniques that drive success.
● Liz Heiman, a sales operating system architect and founder of Regarding Sales, will lead “Breaking the Mold: Why Selling Like a Girl Wins the Sale,” where she will show women exactly how to harness their strengths to easily and comfortably close more sales, especially since women innately ask more questions, organically engage in more conversations, and naturally listen better, which propels them to the top of the sales leaderboard. In fact, women close 33% of leads compared to just 24% for men; 86% of women hit their sales quotas, whereas only 78% of men do; and sales by women are, on average, $5,000 higher than men’s.

The week will also feature nightly networking happy hours, a Founder Hour that connects entrepreneurs with local venture fund leaders, popular local startup events like Tech Alley and Robotics Meetup, and fun activities, such as a pumpkin-market-fit carving competition, rapid fire presentations known as Ignite Talks, and Startup Showdown sponsored by the city of Las Vegas where founders go head-to-head pitching their startup through a performance medium, like singing, dancing, or acting.

Techstars Startup Week Las Vegas is made possible thanks to StartUpNV as well as sponsors: Deel, Brex, the city of Las Vegas, Tech Edge Developers, GOED, Vu Technologies, KPMG, Tech Alley, UNLV, AngelNV, Silicon Valley Bank, Lucihub, Cootoh, Lowtail Libations, and other local businesses. A full agenda with session details and free registration is available at https://startupweeklasvegas.com. Limited sponsorship opportunities are still available. Email madeline@startupnv.org for sponsorship details on how to showcase a brand at Startup Week.

About StartUpNV
StartUpNV is a 501(c)3 non-profit statewide accelerator and business incubator for scalable Nevada-based startups that provides expert mentorship and access to a network of capital partners. StartUpNV’s founders, mentors, university connections, investors, and business partners work together to grow and support a robust, inclusive startup ecosystem in Nevada. StartUpNV’s related venture funds, FundNV, AngelNV, and the new 1864 seed fund, provide startups access to local venture capital along with education for entrepreneurs and angel investors. Since inception in 2017, StartUpNV has heard pitches from more than 1,000 startups, held more than 250 education events, and seen nearly $80 million in venture capital raised for more than 55 companies. For information visit: startupnv.org

MEDIA CONTACTS: Amy Maier, amy@twgpr.com, 702-904-0296

Introduction

Team building inspired by self-organizing systems in nature, like ant colonies, can foster innovative and harmonious collaboration in start-up teams. Just as natural systems autonomously organize for efficiency, empowering team members to self-organize and make collective decisions based on their strengths enhances creativity and adaptability. 

Individual and team innovation complement each other, with introverted thought leaders like Susan Cain and J.K. Rowling showcasing the power of introspection in driving groundbreaking ideas. 

Team building and innovation are essential for startups’ success in the rapidly evolving entrepreneurial landscape. Effective team building lays the foundation for a strong organizational culture, supporting innovation and aligning the workforce with the company’s mission. Balancing individual strengths with collaborative dynamics ensures a holistic approach to progress and creativity, enhancing the ever-evolving landscape of innovation and team building in today’s competitive business world.

Out of the Box: My Creative Process as a Founder, Biohacker and Artist

As a founder, innovator, creator, inventor, and artist I delve into my process of unleashing creativity beyond conventional limits. I have formulated this methodology into a simple but deep process that I summarize formulaically as A+I+A = manifestation. This is a formula for individual ideation appropriate for founders, thought leaders, visionaries, and creators. This process sets the stage for “out-of-the-box” ideation.

1. Opening the Portal: Initiating a connection from the subconscious to the conscious by adopting the perspective of a beginner (the Beginner’s Mind) and suspending the conventions of consensus reality. Then, through meditation and focused attention, accessing creative states of consciousness. 
2. AI Integration: Welcoming the era of AI collaboration to enhance creativity and ideation, enabling innovators to thrive in this dynamic age of creation. 
3. Anthem, Image, Action (AIA): Engaging with the morphogenetic field to receive images and anthems that spark readiness for unique actions, transcending traditional notions of creativity.
4. Union of Yin and Yang or the Above and Below: Embracing diversity and honoring polarities and seeking unity of the conceptual left and right, above and below, divine and secular. Fostering a surge of innovative ideas while ensuring balanced manifestation into reality.
5. Moonshot Exploration: Propelling towards conquering audacious death-defying, world-changing ideas and the quest for innovation and exploration drives creativity, amplifying through intricate alignment with separate but symbiotic living systems extending from the mitochondria the source of the life force in the body to impressions received and transmitted through quantum fields and received at the genetic level.
6. Live Long and Prosper: Encouraging a continuous state of receptivity and amplification of creativity, I envision a future where individual, team, and community alignment and innovation lead to transformative impact and shared knowledge.

For the full presentation [https://youtu.be/XSpx2gi0-z4?si=-hpPgY0iCjoSA7Wo ]

A Proven Process for Establishing Core Values

My process was inspired by Zappos, a multi-billion-dollar online retailer known for its customer-centric culture. I learned and adapted their unique and engaging process to establish core values that set the stage for innovation and collaboration. I mirrored the following steps of their process which is the ultimate team-building exercise to unlock creativity in start-ups and modern companies of any size in any industry:

1. Involvement of All Employees: Zappos engaged all employees, from top executives to frontline staff, in the core values creation process. This inclusive approach ensured that the values represented the collective beliefs and aspirations of the entire organization.
2. Brainstorming Sessions: Employees participated in brainstorming sessions where they could freely suggest values that they believed were essential to Zappos’ culture and success. This open exchange of ideas fostered creativity and collaboration among team members.
3. Voting and Consensus Building: After generating a list of potential core values, employees were given the opportunity to vote on the values they thought were most important and resonated with them. This democratic process helped prioritize values that were widely supported by the team.
4. Refinement and Definition: The values that received the most votes were further refined and defined collaboratively. Employees discussed and clarified the meaning and relevance of each value to ensure a shared understanding across the organization.
5. Integration into Company Culture: Once the core values were finalized, Zappos actively integrated them into various aspects of the company, including hiring, performance evaluations, and decision-making processes. The values became a central part of the organizational culture and guided behavior and decision-making at all levels.
6. Continuous Evaluation and Evolution: Zappos recognized that core values should not remain static. Therefore, the company regularly evaluates the relevance and effectiveness of its values, soliciting feedback from employees and revisiting the values as needed to ensure alignment with the evolving needs of the organization.

By involving all employees in the process, emphasizing collaboration and consensus-building, and integrating the core values into the fabric of the organization, Zappos successfully established a set of core values that reflect its unique culture, drive employee engagement, and guide innovation and decision-making to create a positive and thriving work environment.

The Ingram Evaluation Matrix: A Risk/Opportunity Evaluation Model Summary

Innovation without manifestation is unfulfilled, and therefore empty. Chapter 12 of my book, *Neobank – Navigating the Future of Banking*, covers the linear analytical part of the innovation process that guides decision-making and governance. This chapter focuses on evaluating and prioritizing creative outputs, new products, and business ideas. The process is designed for individual founders, investors, and bankers, and is scalable for both startups and large organizations, including for-profit and non-profit entities, angels, and institutional investors. It can be applied for in-depth due diligence or quick reviews. The chapter emphasizes the importance of risk mitigation over complete risk elimination when evaluating financial products, whether for individuals or large organizations. Scaling the principle of risk mitigation is crucial, with a model that focuses on financial impact and risk applicable across a wide range of stakeholders. 

About the Book: https://usinsider.com/revolutionize-banking-and-health-with-kiron-ais-neobank/

1. Strategy/Strategic Fit: Strategy encompasses plans, goals, means for accomplishment, and tactics, reflecting desired outcomes and the journey. Strategies evolve and adapt as decisions deviate, impacted by the dimensions of Financial Impact, Feasibility, and Risk.
2. Financial Impact: Vital to survival, financial impact is a foundational resource influencing thought, innovation, and function. Decisions prioritize immediate needs over potential future gains, aligning with strategic fit and survival before passion.
3. Feasibility: Concerned with practical enterprise aspects, feasibility evaluates resources and expertise alignment for ventures, advocating following one’s passion and accepting risks to step into the unknown with inspired vision given commensurate rewards.
4. Risk: Fear of risk exists at various levels, requiring mitigation rather than elimination. Risks span regulatory, legal, compliance, reputational, and economic factors, necessitating constant reassessment and adaptation in response to evolving circumstances.

The chapter also touches on character assessment methods, highlighting the Five Cs of Credit used by investment bankers.

Use Case: Putting Jack Back Into the Box

Truly scalable and enduring principles are observable in nature. This is what inspires my vision of innovation and creation within a community called a “start-up” or any other living entity, organism, or organization. I was intrigued and inspired by Tony Hsieh and his team when I moved to Vegas and Tony’s attempts to incorporate concepts of self-organizing complex systems into the fabric of his corporate Zappos culture. One perennial artifact of his organization was its core values. At first, I thought I would just take their brilliant core values and adopt them for my own startups but after talking with his key lieutenants I realized that the journey or the process was as important, if not more, important as the final output.

Our core value team building method went like this…

1. I sent a brief email to all staff (18 at the time) asking them to write in narrative or bullet form in as much or as little detail as they wanted to express their personal values, hopes, dreams, and aspirations not only in work but in life in general. I told them this was the first step in what would provide the foundation for our culture going forward and that everyone’s input was equally valuable. There was no agenda or right or wrong answer. The only requirement was participation.
2. Next, I gathered all the responses into one long anonymized indexed document and set half a day aside to review as a team with the entire team.
3. I handed out the document on paper for all participants an hour or two before the meeting, enough time for everyone to read and think through it.
4. We held a meeting. I facilitated and we whittled the list down to about a dozen unique items. We were all a little surprised to see the extent of consensus and overlap in values. With brainstorming, debate, and discussion we found 100% consensus around a list of 10 core values that encompassed everything that everyone wanted. Everyone was heard and bought in. This buy-in established goodwill and an immeasurable surge in initiative, innovation, responsibility, and commitment to corporate goals and set the tone for the culture going forward. 

The original core values agreed to were as follows:

1. Dare to dream and be inspired – because opening our minds to possibilities is the first step towards realization.
2. Think like a customer – what would “wow” you in any situation? Try to do that.
3. Take responsibility for what is – we take initiative and find solutions; we think like owners.
4. Embrace and drive growth and learning – we move forward to embrace positive change.
5. Preserve and protect integrity – we provide safety and security for our people, systems, and customers.
6. Edify and emulate excellence with passion and determination – we seek the best and when we find it, we feed it, celebrate it, and emulate it.
7. Determine needs before solutions – we listen, evaluate, and prioritize before acting.
8. Build a positive team and family spirit with communication.
9. Take time to rest, play, and recharge – we make time to play.
10. Be real – even if it is a little bit weird.

Wrapping Up: Team Building and Innovation for Start-Ups

The master key to unlocking innovation within the organization is collective, unanimous agreement on the journey and the destination. With this established, everyone finds their natural role within the organization vacancies and gaps reveal themselves and the solutions follow relatively naturally. The next step after ideation is creation and manifestation which requires rigorous and vigorous action. Core values will keep the team engaged through this part of the start-up journey, feeding the seeds of ideation so that they may take root and begin the cycle of robust sustainable growth. 

In the realm of innovation, individual creativity, and team collaboration serve as distinct yet complementary forces driving progress. While team innovation thrives on diverse ideas and collective expertise, individual innovation offers a unique perspective shaped by personal insights and introspection. Introverted thought leaders like Susan Cain and J.K. Rowling exemplify the power of solitary reflection in sparking groundbreaking ideas. Their ability to honor individual strengths and delve into quiet contemplation showcases the depth and authenticity that individual innovation brings. Balancing both individual introspection and team dynamics ensures a holistic approach to creativity, appreciating the richness that each avenue contributes to advancing innovation and fostering transformative growth.

Written by Ronald Ingram 

I am a multidisciplinary innovator, artist and entrepreneur with over 25 years of experience innovating and creating. As the Executive Chairman of Maxwell State Bank, I lead teams of experts in delivering state-of-the-art financial services, private banking, and financial wellness education to businesses and consumers. I also founded multiple fintechs and neobanks that leverage artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and web 3 technologies to create and disrupt markets.

Team Motivation: An AI + Human Perspective 

Today’s question is, how do we maintain team motivation during turbulent times?

In this blog by Las Vegas based FarsideHR Solutions, we’re going to take a modern approach to this age-old question. First we’re going to ask ChatGPT to summarize the basics. Then we’re going to add human experience and insights.

As a husband and wife CHRO and organizational effectiveness consulting duo, we’ve helped 70+ private and public companies solve for scaling, efficiency, productivity and performance.

Let’s see how AI + human experience tackles this perpetual management challenge.

ChatGPT:

Maintaining team motivation during turbulent times requires a multifaceted approach centered on clear communication, support, and adaptability. Firstly, ensure open and transparent communication. Regularly update the team on the situation, goals, and any changes, fostering a sense of security and trust. Encourage team members to voice their concerns and ideas, ensuring everyone feels heard and valued.

Secondly, reinforce a shared vision. Remind the team of the larger purpose and how their efforts contribute to the overall goals. This can help maintain a sense of direction and collective purpose.

Thirdly, provide support and resources. Offer training, tools, and mental health resources to help the team navigate challenges. Show empathy and understanding, acknowledging the difficulties they face.

Fourthly, promote a positive and inclusive culture. Celebrate small wins and recognize individual and team achievements. This boosts morale and fosters a sense of accomplishment. Encourage collaboration and teamwork, creating opportunities for team members to support and learn from each other.

Finally, be adaptable and flexible. Allow for adjustments in work processes and expectations to accommodate the changing circumstances. By implementing these strategies, leaders can sustain team motivation and resilience, even in the face of turbulence.

Jennifer:

As always, a solid checklist from our AI co-pilot.

Derek:

Of course, it’s missing a lot of context. So much of what goes into maintaining team motivation started way back during the recruiting process for each team member. My default belief is that creating a ‘Theory Y’ culture (that employees want to work, want to take responsibility and do not need much supervision) is best. That starts with screening and selecting who gets through the front door following intentional communication about the needs and interests of both the organization and the employee. A big shout out to Talent Acquisition teams who understand their strategic importance vs. just order taking!

Jennifer:

100%. The ‘deal’ for every organization sets expectations at the beginning of the relationship. Those expectations are either met or not met. A large gap in expectations vs reality creates a massive “I didn’t sign up for this!” mental deficit. And that can create a mental brick. There’s a big difference between working on a factory line, joining the army, working for private equity owned firms or venture capital firms. The deal is just different. If you’re entrepreneurial at heart, don’t join a 150,000 person organization and expect it to change fast. 

Derek:

I suppose managing expectations falls under the broad category of ‘culture’ and when we talk about culture, we have to talk about manager consistency and competency. Culture is ‘how we do things around here’ and if we have managers leading with inconsistent or random operating principles, it can add to confusion and the breakdown of trust. 

Jennifer:

And when I think of the highest performing and most motivated teams I’ve worked with, the presence or absence of trust has been the #1 differentiator. Some of the most motivated teams were fighting impossible odds to make the organization just survive. Some of the most demotivated teams no longer ‘assumed good intent’ whenever ANYTHING was said (goals, recognition or changes in direction).

Derek:

Which brings up the inconvenient truth – you can be doing everything ChatGPT suggests, but if you misrepresented expectations to people coming in the front door and then some/all managers act in erratic trust busting ways, then you can provide updates, talk about your vision, show support and celebrate wins at every all-hands. But your engagement scores are going to stay stubbornly in the red as people perceive the say/do gap in their day to day experiences. We’ve said it again and again, just focus on Making Managers Awesome

Jennifer:

This is the true change management/culture reset zone. Get the right people and managers on the bus in the right seats doing the right things. Then get the wrong people off the bus. Intentional organizational re-planning is necessary when full trust breakdown has happened. Some people can’t let things go, won’t trust new leaders with fresh momentum, or continue to obsess on marginal special interest goals that are no longer a priority. It’s not a popular thing to say, but the most motivated people can become quickly demotivated when management tolerates these unproductive behaviors. You have to also include removing the folks that can’t evolve as part of your motivational strategy.

Derek:

So we have:

1. Proper recruiting and aligning on a clear deal/expectations at the front door.
2. Focus on trust and confidence building across all management layers (Say it, do it, talk and tell success stories). Some of the ChatGPT suggestions may help guide managers who are still honing their craft.
3. And don’t be afraid to actively exit those who don’t want to be on the bus or won’t get into the right seats doing the right things. It’s not your first choice, but don’t be afraid to do so.

Anything else to add?

Jennifer:

We can’t ignore the value of pay and rewards as a proper hygiene practice vs emergency response. This is a trust thing too. You just can’t get into the habit of saving people who have resigned with last minute bonuses and creating an environment where you have to quit to get recognized. Avoid ‘the squeaky wheel gets the grease’ trap.

Derek:

That’s a whole master class. Retention bonuses and stay bonuses alone are not a solution without the corresponding system wide reset on performance expectations. As with all complicated problems, a highly motivated team is the by-product of a well designed and executed management system.

Jennifer:

And that rounds out our additional insights:

1. Pay and rewards are best set up as a proactive and fair system that people understand and can achieve.
2. There are no simple listicles here. The key to success is an intentional high performing and motivational life-cycle system based on predictable/repeatable and trustworthy inputs and outputs. People need to understand how to be successful in this system. And if we take the ‘Theory Y’ approach, people will be motivated to achieve their highest potential if the system is well designed and consistently executed.

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About FarsideHR Solutions

As a husband and wife CHRO and organizational effectiveness consulting duo, we’ve helped 70+ private and public companies solve for scaling, efficiency, productivity and performance.

About Jennifer Farris 

Jennifer is a seasoned HR executive and consultant. She has been a part of the technology start-up scene for close to 20-years and has led many of her organizations through some of their highest growth and infrastructure scaling needs. Jennifer is currently the Chief People Officer at Verana Health. Prior to joining Verana, Jennifer was the Chief People Officer for Terminal. Before that she ran her own consulting firm where she worked with companies such as Virgin Galactic, Flexport, Grammarly, Ampush & Udemy.

Jennifer has her Masters from University of Edinburgh, Scotland and her BA from Santa Clara University.

About Derek Sidebottom 

Derek is a multi-industry 20+ year high growth HR executive with extensive talent, consulting and HR Tech product advisory experience. With multiple IPO’s, M&A’s, hyper growth scaling and top employer awards across diverse industries, Derek continues to lead and embrace excellence within talent dependent organizations. Derek holds a BA is Psychology from L’Université d’Ottawa, a Graduate Diploma in Human Resources from Humber College and an MBA from Athabasca University

 

 

Understanding Non Dilutive Funding

In the dynamic landscape of startup entrepreneurship, securing adequate funding stands as a pivotal challenge for founders aspiring to transform innovative ideas into thriving businesses. While traditional funding routes often involve relinquishing equity in exchange for financial support, a rising trend is reshaping the narrative—non-dilutive funding. This alternative approach to financing has gained momentum, offering startup founders a viable means to propel their ventures forward without sacrificing ownership stakes.

In this article, we delve into the world of non-dilutive funding, exploring its various forms and unveiling the strategic advantages it offers to startup founders. As the entrepreneurial landscape continues to evolve, understanding and harnessing the power of non-dilutive funding emerges as a crucial skill for those seeking to navigate the challenging yet rewarding journey of startup growth.

What is Non Dilutive Funding?

 

Non-dilutive funding, in essence, refers to financial resources that entrepreneurs can acquire without yielding equity. Unlike traditional venture capital or angel investments, which demand a share of ownership, non-dilutive funding methods allow founders to raise capital while retaining full control over their companies. This paradigm shift has become increasingly attractive to entrepreneurs navigating the complexities of startup development.

One of the primary reasons non-dilutive funding is gaining popularity lies in its ability to mitigate the dilution of founder equity. In conventional funding scenarios, each round of investment often results in a reduction of the founder’s ownership stake, potentially leading to a loss of control and decision-making power. Non-dilutive funding models, however, circumvent this challenge, empowering founders to maintain a greater share of their companies as they secure the financial backing necessary for growth.

Dilutive vs. Non Dilutive Funding: What’s the Difference?

Distinguishing between dilutive and non-dilutive funding is imperative for entrepreneurs navigating the intricate web of startup finance. At its core, the key distinction lies in the impact on ownership stakes. Dilutive funding, commonly associated with venture capital and equity investments, entails the exchange of a portion of the company’s ownership for financial backing. With each funding round, founders often find themselves relinquishing a percentage of their equity, a necessary trade-off for the capital infusion that propels their ventures forward. On the other hand, non-dilutive funding methods, such as grants, awards, and government incentives, allow founders to secure financial support without parting ways with ownership stakes. This fundamental difference not only shapes the financial structure of a startup but also influences decision-making autonomy and long-term strategic planning.

The contrasting dynamics of dilutive and non-dilutive funding extend beyond ownership considerations. Dilutive funding relies on the valuation and perceived potential of a startup, often tying financial support to the company’s equity worth. In contrast, non-dilutive funding is typically performance-based, with entrepreneurs showcasing their capabilities, innovations, or projects to secure grants or awards. This contrast underscores the diverse paths available to founders, each presenting distinct advantages and challenges. While dilutive funding can inject substantial capital into a startup, non-dilutive funding offers financial resilience and strategic flexibility, creating a nuanced landscape that demands careful consideration and a tailored approach to fundraising.

The Benefits of Non Dilutive Funding for Startup Founders

 

The advantages of non-dilutive funding for startup founders extend far beyond the preservation of ownership stakes. One of the primary benefits lies in the strategic freedom it affords entrepreneurs. Unlike dilutive funding, which often comes with investor expectations and demands, non-dilutive funding allows founders to chart their own course, making critical decisions without external pressures. This independence proves invaluable as startups navigate the unpredictable terrain of market dynamics, enabling them to remain agile and responsive to evolving challenges.

The main benefits of non-dilutive funding include:

• Preservation of Equity: Founders can secure financial support without sacrificing ownership stakes, maintaining control over their companies.
• Stability in Valuation: Non-dilutive funding mitigates the impact of market fluctuations, providing stability in funding without being tethered to valuation-driven dynamics.
• Innovation without Constraint: Entrepreneurs can pursue ambitious projects and innovations with the support of grants and awards, fostering creativity without the limitations associated with equity-based funding.
• Risk Mitigation: Non-dilutive funding acts as a buffer against economic uncertainties, offering startups a secure financial foundation that isn’t contingent on external market conditions.
• Diverse Funding Sources: Founders can tap into a variety of non-dilutive funding sources, including government grants, industry competitions, and research incentives, creating a mosaic of financial support tailored to their specific needs.

Different Types of Non Dilutive Financing

The realm of non-dilutive financing is diverse, offering entrepreneurs a myriad of avenues to secure capital without sacrificing equity. One prevalent form of non-dilutive financing is government grants. These grants, often provided by governmental bodies to stimulate economic growth and innovation, serve as a critical source of funding for startups engaged in research, development, and technology-driven endeavors. Additionally, corporate-sponsored competitions and incubators represent another facet of non-dilutive financing, wherein companies provide financial support, mentorship, and resources to promising startups without demanding equity in return. This symbiotic relationship fosters innovation within specific industries while affording startups the capital needed to propel their projects forward.

Different Types of Non-Dilutive Financing include:

• Government Grants: Financial support provided by government agencies to encourage research, development, and innovation.
• Corporate Competitions: Startups can participate in competitions sponsored by corporations, receiving funding and support without relinquishing equity.
• Research and Development Incentives: Governments may offer tax credits or incentives to encourage businesses to invest in research and development activities.
• Foundations and Nonprofit Organizations: Entities dedicated to supporting specific causes or industries often provide non-dilutive funding to startups aligned with their mission.
• Strategic Partnerships: Collaborative agreements with established companies can bring non-dilutive funding, resources, and market access.
• Crowdfunding: Platforms allow startups to raise funds from a large number of individuals, often in exchange for early access or perks, without giving up equity.
• Innovation Grants: Specific grants aimed at fostering groundbreaking ideas and technologies, providing financial support to startups with innovative projects.

What is Venture Debt?

 

Venture debt represents a distinctive financing option that has gained prominence within the entrepreneurial landscape. Unlike traditional loans, venture debt is tailored specifically for startups and high-growth companies that may not yet be profitable but require additional capital to fuel their expansion. This form of debt typically appeals to companies that have secured significant equity financing, allowing them to complement their funding structure with debt to further bolster their operations. Venture debt can take various forms, including term loans, lines of credit, or convertible debt, and is characterized by its flexibility and adaptability to the unique needs of rapidly scaling businesses.

Companies often turn to venture debt for several compelling reasons. Firstly, it serves as a non-dilutive funding source, enabling startups to secure capital without relinquishing additional equity. This is particularly advantageous for founders who wish to maintain control over their companies and preserve ownership stakes. Secondly, venture debt can be deployed strategically to extend the runway between equity funding rounds, providing a financial cushion during critical phases of growth. It proves instrumental in bridging the gap between major funding events, ensuring that companies have the resources required to reach key milestones without undergoing frequent equity dilution. Lastly, venture debt is structured to align with the growth trajectory of startups, featuring flexible repayment terms and often incorporating warrants or equity kickers, allowing lenders to share in the success of the borrowing company.

What is Crowdfunding?

 

Crowdfunding has emerged as a dynamic and accessible alternative for entrepreneurs seeking to raise capital by tapping into the collective support of a broad audience. At its core, crowdfunding involves raising small amounts of money from a large number of people, typically through online platforms. This democratized approach to fundraising allows entrepreneurs to showcase their projects, products, or ideas to a diverse audience and secure financial backing in exchange for various incentives or rewards. Common forms of crowdfunding include reward-based crowdfunding, where backers receive pre-determined perks or products, and equity crowdfunding, wherein contributors become investors and receive a share of the company’s ownership.

Startups may choose crowdfunding for several reasons, each aligned with the unique benefits this method offers. Firstly, crowdfunding enables founders to validate their ideas and gauge market interest before fully launching a product or service. The process of engaging with backers not only provides critical early-stage capital but also serves as a form of market validation, helping founders refine their offerings based on real-time feedback. Additionally, crowdfunding allows entrepreneurs to maintain control over their companies, as the capital raised is not in exchange for equity. This can be particularly appealing for founders who wish to preserve decision-making autonomy and ownership stakes.

For founders considering crowdfunding, several platforms offer diverse opportunities for fundraising. Kickstarter and Indiegogo are popular for reward-based crowdfunding, providing a platform for creators to showcase their projects to a global audience. Equity crowdfunding platforms like SeedInvest and Crowdcube, on the other hand, cater to startups seeking investment in exchange for equity. The choice of platform often depends on the nature of the business, the funding goal, and the type of engagement founders are seeking from their backers.

What is Grant Funding?

 

Grant funding serves as a vital pillar of financial support for startups and innovative projects, offering non-dilutive capital in various sectors. Common examples of grant funding include government grants, research and development grants, and industry-specific grants. Government grants, provided by federal, state, or local agencies, aim to stimulate economic growth, foster innovation, and address societal challenges. Research and development grants are often awarded to businesses engaged in pioneering projects, promoting advancements in technology, science, and healthcare. Industry-specific grants cater to businesses within particular sectors, encouraging growth and innovation within those domains.

Entrepreneurs seeking grant funding can explore a variety of avenues. Government programs like the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program, operated by the U.S. government, specifically target small businesses and startups engaged in cutting-edge research and development. The Department of Defense (DOD) also offers substantial grant opportunities for projects aligned with defense-related innovations. Additionally, private foundations, non-profit organizations, and corporate entities frequently provide grants to support initiatives that align with their mission or industry focus. The appeal of grant funding lies in its non-dilutive nature, providing startups with financial backing without sacrificing equity. Furthermore, grants often come with the added benefit of validation, as the competitive application process signifies recognition of the project’s potential impact.

For founders, considering grant funding through programs like SBIR or the DOD can be particularly advantageous. The SBIR program, administered by various federal agencies, allocates a portion of their research and development budgets to small businesses. This initiative encourages technological innovation, fosters economic growth, and enables startups to contribute to federal research and development efforts. Similarly, the DOD offers grant opportunities for projects aligned with defense-related innovations, providing startups with a pathway to collaborate with one of the largest and most influential government agencies while securing vital non-dilutive funding.

Is Non Dilutive Funding Right For Your Company?

Determining whether non-dilutive funding is the right fit for your company involves a nuanced evaluation of your startup’s specific needs, growth trajectory, and long-term strategic goals. Non-dilutive funding offers undeniable advantages, foremost among them being the preservation of founder equity. For entrepreneurs who prioritize maintaining control and decision-making autonomy, especially those with a strong belief in the long-term potential of their ventures, non-dilutive funding provides an attractive alternative. This approach allows founders to avoid the potential downsides of equity dilution, such as a loss of control or having to align with investor expectations that may not align with the company’s vision.

On the flip side, dilutive funding brings its own set of advantages that may align with certain companies’ aspirations. The injection of substantial capital through equity financing can rapidly accelerate growth, providing startups with the financial muscle to scale operations, enter new markets, and outpace competitors. Dilutive funding often comes with the added benefit of strategic guidance and industry expertise from investors who have a vested interest in the company’s success. For founders seeking not just capital but also mentorship, networks, and a collaborative partnership, dilutive funding may be the more suitable choice. It’s crucial for entrepreneurs to weigh these factors carefully, considering the immediate and long-term needs of their startups before deciding on the funding approach that aligns best with their vision and growth objectives.

Looking for Equity Financing?

Equity financing remains a cornerstone for startups seeking substantial capital injections while offering investors a stake in the company’s ownership. In the realm of equity financing opportunities, platforms like StartupNV play a pivotal role in connecting entrepreneurs with potential investors and fostering a thriving ecosystem. StartupNV’s programs, for instance, provide a bridge between innovative startups and investors, offering mentorship, resources, and networking opportunities to catalyze growth. These programs often include pitch sessions, where entrepreneurs can showcase their ventures to a panel of investors, and accelerator programs designed to nurture and elevate startups to the next level. By actively participating in equity-focused initiatives like those facilitated by StartupNV, founders gain access to a network of potential investors, strategic partnerships, and the financial backing necessary to propel their ventures toward success.