Both Sides of the Table

OCTOBER 19, 2009

I had previously raised VC in 1999, 2000, 2001 and 2005. I had really positive experiences such as working with Greg Gretsch at Sigma Partners where he championed us to a partners’ meeting where we sort of got crucified. The managing partner of the firm called me the next day. And covered we did.

Venture Capital 274

Venture Capital Term Sheet San Diego Viral 274

Steve Blank

NOVEMBER 16, 2009

Union Square Ventures The next morning I got to spend time with Brad Burnham , partner at Union Square Ventures talking about their investment strategy and insights about web-based businesses. Bill and his partner Fred Wilson have invested in ~30 or so companies with 27 still active. Back in 1999, it all ended very bad.

Customer Development 228

Customer Development Web Developer Customer 228

Sophia Perl of Wisdom

AUGUST 27, 2011

Later, Michiewicz partnered up with someone much older (not 15) who had the business know-how to take WebmasterResources to the next level. The main difference is that they were able to leverage their distribution channel. He mentioned that an idea is worth nothing and often times fails because lack of distribution channel.

EC2 53

EC2 Social Network Distribution Demand 53

thebarefootvc

DECEMBER 16, 2011

The viral nature of social media no doubt aided this growth, as did improvements in the online shopping experience. Disruption in the Education Space: When I first started looking at education technology investments in 1999, very few VCs would go near the sector. Stanford University rolled out a free online Machine Learning course.

Technical Review 110

Technical Review India Mobile Hockey Stick 110