Interview with New Venture Financing Expert

          In the last few weeks, I had the privilege of conducting an email interview with Justin Desrosiers, Director of Strategy & Operations for Investors' Circle. Based out of Durham, NC, Investors' Circle is the oldest and largest early-stage impact investing group and has helped over 265 businesses come to fruition. Mr. Desrosiers began his career in consulting and has advised Fortune 500 clients from all around the globe.
         Although there were many questions I wanted to ask Mr. Desrosiers, I tried to emphasize the importance of new venture funding for entrepreneurs and some of the best ways to achieve funding as an entrepreneur. For example, I asked Justin how do you know a great entrepreneur and business when you see one, to which he replied, "Obviously a detailed business plan, marketing plan, and financial forecasts are very important, but 50% of your decision is instinctive. There's a feeling in your gut that you have to follow." In addition, I asked what types of small business start up situations do you try to avoid, and he told me that teams that don't function together well are one of the biggest things that turns off angel investors and venture capitalists. Furthermore, he told me that other negative characteristics of entrepreneurs seeking investments are not being completely honest and no self introspection to ascertain what they've done wrong and how they are impacting their team.
       In addition to questions regarding what angel investors and venture capitalists look for in entrepreneurs and small businesses, I asked Mr. Desrosiers what is Investors' Circle's core investing philosophy? He replied, "I believe that our core investing philosophy is to invest in a fantastic team that works well with one another, and picking a business that is going after a compelling business market." I finished my interview with Justin by asking, "If you could offer one piece of advice for entrepreneurs seeking venture capital, what would it be?" He responded, "Entrepreneurs have to be passionate about what they are trying to do, and the must have the determination to overcome failure. In addition, it is important that entrepreneurs seek advice from others, but it is important to take some things and leave the rest."
      My interview with Mr. Desrosiers provided me with a great deal of insight as to what angel investors and venture capitalists look for in entrepreneurs, and it also provided me with an opportunity to take away a few tips and tricks to ensure new venture investments.