It should come as no surprise at this point that healthcare is quickly rising to the top of trending startup industries. At Venture Atlanta 2024, Catalyst by Wellstar kicked off the afternoon of day two with a thought-provoking session titled “Innovating Healthcare: Bridging Clinical Expertise with Entrepreneurial Vision.” Bringing together industry leaders, the discussion explored how healthcare startups, institutions, and venture capital can collaborate to drive transformative change in the healthcare sector.

Moderated by Patric Rayburn, the panel featured Beth Kost (SVP & Chief Compliance Officer, Wellstar), Dr. Daniel Fortes (VP of Thoracic Surgery, Wellstar), Nicole Cook (Founder & CEO of Alvee), and Snehal Doshi (SVP Ancillary and Support Services, Wellstar).

Breaking News: Alvee Joins Catalyst by Wellstar’s Portfolio

One of the standout moments of the session was the announcement that Alvee is now the newest portfolio company of Catalyst by Wellstar, marking an important milestone in Wellstar’s mission to invest in AI-driven healthcare startups.

Nicole Cook, Founder & CEO of Alvee, emphasized the power of AI in improving patient care, particularly in addressing social determinants of health—the non-medical factors that impact over 80% of healthcare outcomes. “AI has the power to uncover hidden challenges and give doctors a superpower to provide holistic care,” Cook said. This strategic investment showcases Catalyst by Wellstar’s commitment to healthcare venture investment, fostering technologies that bridge clinical expertise with innovative solutions.

Navigating Risk in a Traditionally Risk-Averse Industry

With 70% of startups failing, the healthcare startup sector presents unique challenges when it comes to fostering innovation. In healthcare, professionals are trained to “do no harm,” which often leads to a natural aversion to risk. Wellstar mitigates this by hosting think tanks that explore cutting-edge innovations while ensuring patient safety.

Risk-taking in healthcare extends beyond patient safety—it’s also about creating a psychologically safe environment where teams can experiment, collaborate, and challenge the status quo. Doshi emphasized the importance of a culture that supports innovation while maintaining high safety standards. Cook reinforced the need for startups to prioritize regulatory compliance and demonstrate clear ROI. “A great idea isn’t enough,” she said. “You have to prove value in a way that makes business sense for hospitals and providers.”

Bridging the Gap Between Investors and Patient Needs

A recurring theme was the need for investors to better understand the real-world needs of patients to ensure their investments in healthcare startups have a meaningful impact. Dr. Fortes stressed the importance of improving patient access, particularly for individuals with disabilities. “Resistance to change is inevitable, but global accessibility in healthcare must be prioritized,” he noted.

Cook added that social determinants of health are often overlooked by investors, despite playing a critical role in patient outcomes. Alvee is working to surface these hidden challenges, providing healthcare providers with a more comprehensive understanding of patient needs. She emphasized that technology must be used to fill these gaps in care, ensuring that underserved communities receive the support they need.

AI’s Expanding Role in Healthcare

The discussion also delved into the rapidly growing role of AI in healthcare, from predictive analytics to improving patient care. Cook described AI as a tool that enables precision patient care by identifying hidden health risks. She explained that AI-driven insights can help doctors make more informed decisions, ultimately leading to better patient outcomes.

Dr. Fortes expressed concern that while technology is advancing, the human side of medicine is suffering. “Automation should free up time for providers to focus on human connection with their patients,” he said. He emphasized the importance of striking a balance between efficiency and the personal touch that defines quality healthcare.

The Intersection of Business and Healthcare Leadership

As more healthcare professionals earn MBAs and develop business acumen, the panel examined how investors can tap into this dual expertise. Doshi highlighted the importance of partnerships between business leaders and medical professionals to advance patient care. He pointed out that healthcare is a collaborative effort, and diverse expertise is key to solving complex challenges.

Kost reinforced the need to work with regulatory experts who understand the complexities of healthcare compliance. She explained that regulations can often be a barrier to innovation, but those with deep industry knowledge can help navigate these challenges. Cook, a healthcare startup founder and, ironically, the only panelist without an MBA, shared her perspective: “I may not have an MBA, but I know how to build a company that makes an impact.”

Balancing Profitability with a Mission-Driven Approach

For healthcare startups, finding a balance between mission and profitability is crucial to long-term success. Dr. Fortes emphasized that while profitability is essential, patient outcomes must always come first. He noted that a successful healthcare business is one that reinvests profits into improving care and expanding services.

Cook acknowledged that startups must learn how to effectively communicate their mission to investors. “You have to show why your solution is both impactful and financially viable,” she said. She explained that passion and purpose are important, but they must be backed by a solid business model to ensure sustainability.

Q&A: Key Takeaways

The session concluded with an audience Q&A, during which panelists addressed pressing concerns from founders and investors.

Q: What advice would you give investors evaluating healthcare startups?

Q: How do hospitals ensure new innovations are adopted by teams?

Q: What major changes do you predict in healthcare over the next few years?

Final Thoughts: The Future of Healthcare Innovation

This session reinforced the critical role of collaboration in healthcare innovation. As AI, patient care technology, and social determinants of health continue to shape the industry, organizations like Catalyst by Wellstar are helping bridge the gap between clinical expertise and entrepreneurial vision.

Want to explore the latest healthcare startup investment trends? Read our State of Startup Investing Recap to uncover more of the Southeast’s evolving startup landscape.

Wondering what else you may have missed at Venture Atlanta 2024? Check out our full recap of this past year’s conference in our Venture Atlanta 2024 Highlights!

FAQs

How do investors evaluate healthcare startups?

Investors typically evaluate healthcare startups based on market need, regulatory compliance, scalability, and ROI potential. Startups must demonstrate a clear value proposition, a pathway to profitability, and strong leadership with expertise in both healthcare and business.

How can AI improve healthcare outcomes?

AI can enhance healthcare by analyzing vast amounts of data to detect patterns, provide predictive insights, and support decision-making. AI-powered tools help reduce diagnostic errors, personalize treatment plans, and improve operational efficiency, leading to better patient outcomes.

Why do so many healthcare startups fail?

Many healthcare startups fail due to regulatory hurdles, lack of market adoption, high costs of innovation, and difficulties in proving ROI. Without a solid strategy for navigating compliance, securing funding, and demonstrating long-term value, startups struggle to scale successfully.

The startup world is unpredictable. With ever-changing markets, funding opportunities, and economic conditions, one resounding trait separates good founders from the greats: resilience. 

In this thought leadership session from day two of Venture Atlanta 2024, three expert panelists discussed venture capital challenges and why resilience is so important to the success of VCs and founders alike. Thanks to our panelists:

Through their unique viewpoints, these panelists address the multifaceted nature of resilience in startups, from mental health and venture capital challenges to the strategic approaches of VCs supporting their investments through unpredictable economic climates. Thanks again to Goodie Nation for sponsoring this thought leadership session!

The Importance of Resilience in Startups and Venture Capital Challenges

Claude, inspired by the thoughts on suffering and resilience from Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang, asked whether resilience in startups was critical to success. If so, how do you see it play out in your areas of expertise?

Founder Perspective

Kendra began by noting that as a founder, resilience is essential. If you don’t have it, you’re going to struggle. 

A lot of times, you have a big vision. You’re idealistic. You have goals, energy, and drive. But a lot can get in the way. Some you can control, most you can’t. These are the types of things that don’t go away in any business, industry, or type of company. If you don’t have resiliency, it will be challenging to get through them. 

She also said that resilience is a measurement of how much stress you can handle. If you’ve never been stress tested, you won’t be able to handle much. 

“The more resiliency you have, the stronger you are. The stronger you are, the more venture capital challenges you can take on. The more you can take on, the bigger and better company you can build.“

- Kendra Koch, Founder of Divergently

People think they need to scale back or take on less stress. Sometimes that’s not true. Often, you need stress to get stronger and handle future adversity.

Sports Perspective

Brett said that in sports, the more exceptional you become, the more failures you’ll face, and the more your exceptionality will be challenged by the exceptionality of others. 

That’s difficult to cope with when you start as a big fish in a small pond and then become a small fish in a large pond.  

Brett teaches her athletes that resiliency is the ability to adapt. To be sustainable in anything you want to be exceptional at, you have to be able to adapt. 

“You may be able to have one good game or season, but if you don’t have resiliency, you won’t be able to adapt over time.” 

- Brett Haskell, Chief Performance Officer at Momentum Labs

Brett teaches a lot about Michael Jordan. One thing people don’t appreciate enough about Michael Jordan is his adaptability. When he came into the league, he was a remarkable physical athlete. But he stayed in the league so long that his physicality stopped being what made him exceptional. He had to adjust and become a much savvier player. So, he adopted his signature fadeaway and excelled at that to overcome his declining athleticism. 

To be exceptional for a long time, you have to be adaptable. Resilience in startups is all about adaptability.

VC Perspective

For Chad, VC portfolio resilience is going up in front of an investment committee to help get an investment by any means necessary.

This means talking about how great a founder is, how great their company is, and painting a rosy picture. But, the startup journey has tons of venture capital challenges. For 5 years, he must talk to the investment committee about why he has faith in this founder or opportunity, even in the downtimes, which can be tough.

How to Find Resilience and Overcome Venture Capital Challenges

Claude mentioned that in 2002, a Harvard Business Review article was released that claimed resilience is something you find out you have after the fact. So, he asked the panel how they gained resilience.

Brett stepped up first, saying when she trains someone for resilience and grit, she focuses on the athlete’s comfort and learning zones. 

“Our brains are built to enjoy control and prediction, rather than uncertainty.  To be resilient, you have to face uncertainty over and over and over again.” 

- Brett Haskell, Chief Performance Officer at Momentum Labs

To get into the learning zone, you must teach your brain how to accept the realities of that environment and sit in discomfort. Once you’re in the learning zone, all of a sudden, you can adopt new strategies and skills, building an arsenal of techniques and tools to cope with those situations in the future. 

But, to capitalize and develop from those moments, you have to reflect on them. We all face difficult situations. Some, from the outside, seem harder than others. But, you can gain insight from any venture capital challenges you face if you go back and ask yourself: 

This will help you build your resiliency blueprint for handling difficult moments and situations with consequences in the future. 

The bottom line: We all face difficult things. The more you face them head-on, the more confident you become in handling uncertainty. 

The uncomfortability inoculates you. Over time, you’ll be able to handle more and more discomfort. 

“That’s what mental toughness is. The ability to tolerate more and more discomfort and not have your body react like it’s a threat to your life.” 

- Brett Haskell, Chief Performance Officer at Momentum Labs

Mental Health for Entrepreneurs and Founder Resilience: Key Insights

Kendra said she builds resilience by starting with health: if you’re not sleeping, eating regularly, or taking care of yourself, it's much harder to handle things when you hit a rough patch.

She also emphasized building a support system: 

“It’s important to have friends you can call, have mentors who get it, and have a community. Tough times are even tougher in isolation.”

- Kendra Koch, Founder of Divergently

Brett piggybacked on that by saying the brain is your most important muscle. You need good brain health: it’s a metabolic organ that needs fuel to function. If you’re not fueling it consistently, your brain isn’t going to work at its peak. It’s like putting crappy gas in your car. 

Also, we’re neurobiologically wired for connection. It’s a protective mechanism by which we can handle more. Think about your brain like a rubber band rather than a piece of glass. The more you work your brain muscle, the thicker your rubber band is and the more you can stretch. 

Lessons in Resilience from VC and Founder Perspectives

Claude asked the panelists about the importance of founders having honest conversations with their VCs. Here are the responses:

Chad gave the VCs perspective, saying that in 2023 most VCs were psychologists. He then described the different types of founders:

With all of these different founder types, VCs have had to figure out how to best communicate with each one. 

In terms of truly honest conversations, investors have information rights. 

“The sooner founders give information to investors, the sooner VCs can help them make informed decisions.”

- Chad Harris, Investor at Open Opportunity Fund

Other companies view the act of failing as so “insurmountable”, that they have to break all types of legality to prove their success. That’s not the way to do it. 

You need to be able to fail. 

“I know VCs at Venture Atlanta who’ve said they only want to back founders who have failed at the first couple of companies because they have grit.” 

- Chad Harris, Investor at Open Opportunity Fund

Brett jumped in on the conversation to add that Chad is talking about building mindsets around approaching certain venture capital challenges. The two mindsets are:

Often, we miss growth opportunities because we’re ashamed of the possible failure. But founders should see that as an opportunity.

“I was taught to reframe failure as AFOG: Another F***ing Opportunity for Growth.” 

- Brett Haskell, Chief Performance Officer at Momentum Labs

If you can lean into the opportunity in front of you, your brain is in the best place to grow and develop. 

How To Be Resilient in Tough Times

Claude then asked our panelists what founders and VCs can do to prepare for tough times.

To be resilient in tough times, Kendra thinks about why she’s doing what she is doing. She reminds herself why by reading through emails and reviews of customers who say “Thank you” and “Your technology is making a difference.” 

As a former actress, Kendra also has a unique view on resilience. 

“The misconception about acting is that it’s pretending. But for exceptional actors, their skill is getting into the truth of the character, the truth of the moment, and the truth of the story.”

- Kendra Koch, Founder of Divergently 

As a founder, she reminds herself of the truth of the moment. If you do that, the problem is probably not as big as you’re making it, and the solution is easier than it originally seemed. 

She also says to look at the situation from a different point of view. Would my team, customers, or investors also say my company is a disaster? If not, then why should I think it is? 

Building a Resilience Culture in High-Performance Teams

Claude then asked the panel about their high-performance organizations. How do they support resilience in startups with intentionality?

For Brett, their company commits time and energy to it. 

“Time is the premium for anyone trying to be exceptional at anything. What we give our time to shows what we value.”

- Brett Haskell, Chief Performance Officer at Momentum Labs

The high-performance organizations she works with dedicate their time to mental health for entrepreneurs. It’s a systemic part of the culture. They offer ongoing prevention and tools—it’s not something they do only when there are problems. 

Chad says for the Open Opportunity Fund, resilient entrepreneurs are core to their organization. They invest in diverse founders from different walks of life who have gained muscles and calluses that inherently breed resiliency. 

Most of the founders he works with already had a breakeven scenario because they are not used to capital being available. They’re already thinking “How can I continue to grow this company knowing that I can’t go out and raise more money right now?” 

He added that DEI has ebbed and flowed. Nobody in his portfolio wants to receive dollars for being a woman or for their skin color. They want to build high-performing companies that can compete globally. If we invest in a black woman founder, she’s competing against everybody—not just other black women founders. They want people who can think big and who are scrappy. 

Resilience as a Solution to Venture Capital Challenges

Resilience in startups emerges as a key differentiator in the tech space, where uncertainties and venture capital challenges are par for the course. The ability to adapt, learn from failures, and rebound stronger is what sets apart successful startups and venture capitalists. This adaptability fosters a culture of continuous improvement and innovation, enabling businesses to not just endure but excel in competitive and ever-changing markets.

If you want to see more highlights from Venture Atlanta 2024, check out our full conference highlights here. You can also read through our list of startup industries gaining momentum as well as our helpful state of startup investing in Atlanta article.

Be sure to bookmark our Resource Hub to get more insights from our team of tech startup experts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is resilience important for startups and their founders?

Resilience is crucial for startups and their founders because it enables them to navigate the inevitable venture capital challenges and setbacks inherent in launching and growing a new business. Resilience helps founders adapt to adverse situations, maintain focus on long-term goals, and manage stress effectively. Founders who cultivate resilience can better support their teams, maintain investor confidence, and lead their companies through volatile market conditions.

How can founders build resilience?

Founders can build resilience by actively developing mental toughness and adapting to venture capital challenges as opportunities for growth. This involves stepping out of comfort zones, facing uncertainties, and learning from failures.

What role does resilience play for VCs and their portfolio companies?

Resilience plays a critical role for VCs and their portfolio companies by helping them sustain faith and support through the fluctuating fortunes of the startup lifecycle. VCs require resilience to manage the narrative with investment committees, especially during downturns. For portfolio companies, resilience cultivates the ability to pivot strategies, withstand market pressures, and seize growth opportunities despite venture capital challenges.

How does resilience relate to mental health for entrepreneurs?

Resilience is deeply interconnected with mental health for entrepreneurs. Resilience helps entrepreneurs manage the psychological stresses of running a business, from handling failure to navigating uncertainty. Building resilience involves maintaining strong mental health through practices such as regular self-care, stress management, and seeking social support.

What practical steps can founders take to improve resilience?

Founders can take several practical steps to improve resilience:

Starting off day two of Venture Atlanta 2024, we had an incredible bonfire chat with the founders of Scalebound who gave advice to CEOs and founders on scaling startups.

What Is Scalebound?

Scalebound is a consulting company from founders Rob Forman and Eric Spett, built to help scaling startups grow their businesses faster through teaching, coaching, and community.

Who Were the Speakers at the Scalebound Session at VA 2024?

At this chat, Eric and Rob, two titans of the startup ecosystem in Atlanta, discussed the process of scaling startups, and how their new joint venture Scalebound can help CEOs scale their businesses with clarity and confidence.

Keep reading to see the questions each of Venture Atlanta’s headline sponsors asked Eric and Rob during the bonfire chat and the advice they gave to scaling startups.

Scaling Challenges for Founders: What Didn’t Go Right When Starting Your Businesses?

This question was asked by Joe Berklund of Morris, Manning & Martin.

Not Embedding Purpose and Values

Rob emphasized the crucial mistake of not placing purpose and values at the heart of scaling startups from the outset.

“Probably my biggest mistake that I thankfully survived predates Salesloft," Rob explained. He didn't initially see the importance of embedding a clear purpose and values within the company's culture, thinking such measures were only necessary once the business reached a certain size or milestone. 

This oversight led to considerable internal misalignment. The experience was profound enough to cause severe chest pains and a period of reflection on what was truly important, which ultimately guided him to prioritize organizational health and align his team around a shared vision of excellence.

Not Focusing on Customer Value and Retention

Eric Spett focused on a different aspect of early-stage startup advice, discussing his initial oversight regarding customer value in his company. 

Eric admitted that while his company was proficient at driving demand and closing deals, they overlooked the significance of customer retention until it was almost too late. 

"For us, a huge mistake learned the hard way was not focusing on customer value soon enough," Eric shared. 

“We were always focused on revenue when we should have been focused on the retention number.”

- Eric Spett, Founder & CEO of Scalebound

Despite impressive annual recurring revenue figures, underlying issues with churn and retention painted a troubling picture. The company was always focused on hitting revenue targets, which masked the critical retention problems that were eroding the business's foundation. 

Eric stressed that retention should have been their rallying cry from the beginning, underscoring the lesson that understanding and delivering customer value is paramount for scaling startups.

Founder Lessons: What Leadership Lessons Have You Learned?

This question was asked by Drew Graves from ExtensisHR.

Honesty vs. Positivity

Eric highlighted the critical role of positivity in leadership, especially when creating something from nothing and managing diverse teams. However, he learned that "positivity runs out," particularly when facing challenges and roadblocks with scaling startups. Eric pointed out that solely leading with optimism can lead to missed opportunities for addressing underlying issues within the company. 

"When you become more honest and less positive, you'll be amazed how many good ideas come out.” 

- Eric Spett, Founder & CEO of Scalebound

This approach not only resolves issues more effectively but also taps into the invaluable insights that employees—often the ones closest to the problems—can provide.

Adding Too Much Value

Rob shared a personal moment of realization that occurred in the spring of 2017 when he debated stepping aside from his leadership role due to the intense pull between his personal and professional life. 

With $15 million in funding and his company beginning to scale, Rob initially thought the problem was balancing his personal and professional commitments. However, a conversation with a coach revealed a deeper issue: "You're not growing as a leader. You're the bottleneck," his coach told him. This was a symptom of Rob's difficulty in holding people accountable and his habit of adding too much value, which often undermined his team's autonomy. 

Rob learned that while leaders might aim to empower their teams, they must refrain from over-influencing their decisions. 

“I learned to stop adding too much value. I had to learn how to just say ‘Go for it.’ That started to increase ownership and empower the next line of leaders.”

- Rob Forman, Co-Founder of Scalebound

Startup Growth Tips: What’s the Biggest Risk You Took That Paid Off?

This question was asked by Jonathan Sawyer from Cherry Bekaert.

Pivoting Product 

Rob shared the story of a major pivot in his company when they initially built a product called Prospector, designed to simplify the extraction of public data from LinkedIn for salespeople and marketers. 

Despite its initial success, Rob realized the business model—essentially building on someone else's platform—was unsustainable. "We realized we were building on someone else's land, and that wasn't going to last forever," Rob explained. 

The decision to pivot from Prospector to what would eventually become SalesLoft was fraught with risks. LinkedIn started to clamp down on their data usage, which forced Rob's hand. He negotiated with LinkedIn for an additional 12 months before agreeing to shut down Prospector, transitioning almost the entire team to focus on developing SalesLoft. 

This bold move to sunset a successful product to focus on a more sustainable one proved pivotal, setting the foundation for SalesLoft’s future success.

Letting Go of Your Original Team

Eric discussed his risky decision to shut down the managed service component of Terminus to focus entirely on software. This shift was necessary as the company grew and the original team members, or "OGs," who were integral at the early stages, no longer fit the evolving needs of the business. 

"Every time you have to let an OG go, it's scary. What’s the cultural impact? Will their team leave? How is it going to impact us? It’s a big risk, but something you have to do over and over again." 

- Eric Spett, Founder & CEO of Scalebound

However, Eric emphasized the importance of aligning the team with the company's growth and strategic direction, acknowledging that while difficult, these decisions were essential for Terminus to progress. The move to focus solely on software, despite the risks involved, allowed Terminus to thrive and adapt along with other scaling startups.

Startup Founder Advice: What Is Your Advice for Someone Going After the First Million Dollars Versus $10 Million?

This question was asked by Brooke MacLean, CEO and Founder of Marketwake.

First Million: Focus

Eric stressed the importance of focus and prioritization in the journey of scaling startups looking to reach their first million. 

“The number one piece of advice: focus" 

- Eric Spett, Founder & CEO of Scalebound

In the early stages, entrepreneurs are primarily engaged in building and selling the product. He suggested a disciplined approach to managing distractions by laying out goals and priorities on paper, starting with quarterly planning, and then breaking it down to weekly and daily tasks. Eric and Rob use this productivity planner from Intelligent Change to help them focus. 

"If it's not about building or selling the product, you have to say no," he advised. Eric underscored the necessity of repeating this cycle of prioritization, focusing on execution, and iterating quickly to see real progress in the business. He also recommended tackling the hardest tasks first thing in the day to make everything else seem easier.

$10 Million: Leadership

Rob highlighted the shift necessary when scaling from one million to ten million, particularly in developing a strong leadership team. He pointed out that success in scaling startups is about more than just focus and resiliency; it involves strategic team building. Here are his four steps:

  1. Build a highly cohesive team 
  2. Create organizational clarity on why we exist
  3. Overcommunicate clarity
  4. Reinforce with human systems

He shared practical steps for achieving team cohesion and organizational clarity, such as sharing life stories among team members to overcome biases and establish deep connections. This practice, known as "Lifeline," involves each executive sharing ten personal highlights and lowlights that have shaped who they are, fostering a high-trust environment. 

Rob also emphasized the importance of role clarity within the team, ensuring that responsibilities are clearly defined and understood, with only one person accountable for each decision. 

"Your capacity as a leader is set by the capabilities of your leadership team. If you don’t build the foundation of trust early, you’re in for a rude awakening as the business scales.”

- Rob Forman, Co-Founder of Scalebound

The #1 Venture Capital Conference for Scaling Startups

For founders embarking on this ambitious path, remember that your initial million sets the groundwork, but it’s the approach to scaling beyond that will truly define your startup's trajectory. 

If you want to accelerate your startup’s trajectory, attend Venture Atlanta, the largest venture capital conference in the Southeast!

From the Startup Showcase Live to insightful panels with industry experts, Venture Atlanta has everything scaling startups need to learn, network, and grow their businesses. Click here to learn more about attending Venture Atlanta so you can start scaling your startup!

Frequently Asked Questions

How can founders prioritize effectively while scaling their startups?

To prioritize effectively while scaling their startups, founders should focus sharply on activities that directly contribute to building and selling their products. Set priorities on a quarterly, weekly, and daily basis and say "no" to tasks and opportunities that don't align with these core priorities. 

What challenges did Rob and Eric discuss about scaling their companies?

Rob and Eric discussed several challenges in scaling their companies, including:

Strategic Pivots: Rob discussed the significant risk and subsequent challenges involved in sunsetting a successful product to focus on developing a more sustainable one, which required negotiating additional operational time and realigning the company's vision.

On the opening day of Venture Atlanta 2024, attendees packed the outside tent for the J.P. Morgan-sponsored thought leadership panel, “Navigating Capital Currents: Trends in Fundraising for Southeastern Startups.” Featuring insights from industry leaders Howard Lerman (Roam), Vanessa Larco (NEA), and Joe De Pinho (Riverwood Capital), the session provided valuable insights into fundraising trends shaping today’s capital environment. Moderated by Derick Duchodni of J.P. Morgan, the discussion covered critical strategies for raising capital for startups in the Southeast.

Here’s what we learned about venture capital trends and effective strategies for growth.

Key Takeaways

Before we dive deeper into the panel discussion, here are a few actionable insights and takeaways that the panel had for founders:

  1. Stay Lean: Raise only what you need, and focus on creating value for customers.
  2. Build Obsessed: Delegate administrative tasks, but never lose sight of product-market fit.
  3. Strategize Your Board: Keep it small, focused, and composed of experienced advisors.
  4. Prioritize Happy Customers: They will drive organic growth and reduce marketing spend.

Key Trends in Fundraising for Southeastern Startups

The State of the Market

Joe De Pinho highlighted a rebound in deal activity in 2024 after recent fundraising challenges. However, he noted that higher interest rates and tightened corporate budgets have impacted net retention rates and sales team productivity. Vanessa Larco emphasized Atlanta’s growing prominence in growth-stage fundraising, noting her optimism for the region’s entrepreneurial energy.

The panel agreed that while challenges persist, strategic fundraising and efficient operations are essential for navigating this capital climate.

Advice for Founders

Howard Lerman encouraged founders to stay bootstrapped for as long as possible, raising minimal capital only when necessary. “You want to work with people who believe in you,” he advised, underscoring the importance of thoughtful partnerships. Vanessa added that founders must resist the allure of inflated valuations, as “higher isn’t always better” during or after a raise.

For early-stage startups, balancing operational intensity with strategic focus emerged as a critical theme. As Joe put it, “Obsession and efficiency in bookings are key to scaling successfully.”

Deploying Capital Wisely

One recurring theme was the importance of prioritizing customer satisfaction over flashy expenditures. Howard stressed that happy customers become a company’s best advocates, lowering acquisition costs and creating organic growth opportunities. Vanessa echoed this sentiment, recounting a founder who raised a fast Series A based solely on glowing customer testimonials. “Your customers should be your best salespeople,” she advised.

Joe urged founders to allocate capital toward go-to-market strategies and product development rather than chasing trends. “Don’t be Google,” he quipped, referencing the dangers of excessive R&D spending without clear returns.

Secondary Trades and Founder Focus

When asked about secondary trades, the panelists shared differing views. Vanessa expressed caution, noting that early-stage founders should prioritize reinvesting in their companies rather than personal financial gains. Howard agreed, emphasizing that obsession with building the business should come first. 

Conversely, Joe highlighted the potential benefits of financial stability from secondary liquidity, which can encourage founders to take bold, calculated risks.

Scaling and Exit Strategies

The panelists stressed the importance of thoughtful board composition for growth-stage fundraising. Vanessa advocated for lean boards of 3-5 members to maintain focus and agility. Furthermore, Joe described the dangers of “party boards” that cheer without offering meaningful guidance. 

For founders eyeing exits, Howard shared a passion-driven philosophy: “I don’t think about exits. Starting a company is my art, and solving problems is the reward.” Vanessa countered with a VC perspective, emphasizing that founders should deliver returns for investors by maintaining valuation discipline and exploring multiple exit paths, including private equity.

Venturing Ahead

As the Southeast continues to evolve into a leading startup ecosystem, the insights from this panel offer invaluable guidance for founders navigating today’s capital currents and fundraising trends.

For more information on J.P. Morgan’s robust venture capital network and resources for raising capital for startups, check out their website here.

And for a deeper dive into all that happened at Venture Atlanta 2024, read through our Venture Atlanta 2024 Conference Highlights blog!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the key trends in startup fundraising for Southeastern startups?

Southeastern startups are experiencing a rebound in deal activity, with a focus on lean operations and customer satisfaction.

How should startups approach early-stage fundraising in 2025?

Founders should focus on thoughtful, strategic fundraising, maintaining realistic valuations and prioritizing partnerships with aligned investors.

What is the difference between early-stage and growth-stage fundraising strategies?

Early-stage strategies prioritize lean operations and focused spending, while growth-stage strategies focus on scaling efficiently and retaining high-value customers.

How can founders navigate the current capital environment?

By focusing on happy customers, strategic capital allocation, and efficient board composition, founders can build resilient businesses.

What role do board size and composition play in startup success?

Smaller boards of 3-5 members promote accountability and decision-making efficiency, especially during early and growth stages.

The first event on day one of Venture Atlanta 2024 was the 11th annual VC panel and breakfast, sponsored by CBRE, exploring the future of SaaS and focusing on emerging trends, challenges, and opportunities. 

The panel, titled, “Is SaaS Dead?” offered a glimpse into industry perspectives on the ever-shifting landscape of B2B SaaS. Here are our biggest takeaways from the session:

Trends Shaping the Future of SaaS

The panelists addressed the evolution of SaaS and its current relevance. While SaaS isn't "dead," it is evolving, with trends like AI, fintech, and automation driving change. 

AI-Enabled Hardware Is Pushing Boundaries

Panelists expressed excitement in the opportunity of AI-enabled hardware, which can address problems that pure software solutions cannot. They emphasized the need to focus on industries that haven’t yet been significantly impacted by technology, such as the industrial sector or the Department of Defense.

Fintech and SaaS Market Trends

The intersection of financial software and health tech is a promising area, with opportunities for AI in SaaS to streamline complex tasks like insurance reconciliation and analytics. Every company should be exploring how to integrate AI into its operations to remain competitive. The panel discussed the massive opportunities for AI and automation in the healthcare back office, the office of the CFO, and the risk and compliance industry. 

Building Ahead of the Trend, Not With It

The panel advised founders to think ahead rather than follow current buzzwords. 

“I don’t care about what today's trends are. You're not going to make money playing buzzword bingo. Our job is to focus on what's coming—not what's trendy right now."

To that point, the panel noted some societal changes affecting industries in the next 5 years. There is approximately a 4.1% unemployment rate in the United States, and only 1.61 children are born per household. There needs to be 2.2 children per household to expand the U.S. economy. This demographic decline gives the U.S. fewer eligible people to provide healthcare or defend the country. To that point, automation in the healthcare, national defense, and intelligent robotics industries is crucial to keeping the U.S. economy going and providing for people as they age.

“You make money as an entrepreneur by believing and building things other people don’t believe in.”

Is Now a Good Time to Start a Fintech or SaaS Company?

There has never been a better time to build a fintech company than now. The problem before was that everyone built neo-banks; there wasn’t enough fundamental value in the products.

Now, 80% of fintech pitches are the same because founders are just adding OpenAI to their existing products. The panel advised doing the hard work if you’re going to build a product. It’s much easier to try and build and sell something built on top of OpenAI, but it doesn’t hold true value.

Advice to Founders: Controlling Burn, Raising Smart, and Team Diversity

During the panel, each panelist was asked to give one piece of meaningful advice for founders. Here’s what they noted:

“If an investor gets it wrong and you suck, they’ve got 39 other companies to fall back on. But if you rush in and your investor sucks, there is no divorce. You are going to spend with someone who sucks.”

AI and Investment: How to Navigate the Current Landscape

When discussing AI, the panelists agreed it’s not a fleeting trend but an ongoing transformation in the tech landscape. 

“Every portfolio company needs to be integrating AI into their capabilities. It’s key to maintaining their workforce, gaining efficiencies, and ultimately generating more profit.”

Biggest Lessons Learned From Failure

The panelists shared their experiences and insights on the lessons learned from failure. 

“Don’t hire short people if you’re short. Don’t hire tall people if you’re tall. I use it as a metaphor. Everyone likes to hire people like them. The best teams are actually built with diversity.”

How to Meet Founders and Source Deals

One question the panel was asked about focused on how founders should approach VC investors. Here are their responses:

Enjoying these Venture Atlanta recaps? Head to our resource hub to get more insights from the largest venture capital conference in the southeast.

Also, keep up with Venture Atlanta on Facebook, Instagram, X, and LinkedIn, or contact us to be the first to know when we post more panel recaps.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does "Is SaaS Dead?" mean in the context of today’s tech landscape?

In today’s tech ecosystem, the death of SaaS looms ahead as AI tools become more prevalent in organizational workflows. SaaS is not dying though. It is changing to integrate better with AI, fintech, healthcare, and underserved sectors such as the industrial industry and the Department of Defense.

What are the biggest trends impacting SaaS today?

The biggest SaaS market trends are AI enablement, moving SaaS to underserved verticals, and the convergence of SaaS and fintech.

How can startups leverage AI in their SaaS models?

Startups can leverage AI in their SaaS models to enhance functionality, optimize processes, and create competitive advantages. Here are several ways AI can be effectively integrated into SaaS offerings:

1. Automating Repetitive Tasks

AI can handle mundane and repetitive tasks, freeing up time for teams to focus on more strategic activities. 

2. Personalizing User Experiences

AI algorithms can analyze user behavior and preferences to offer tailored experiences. In SaaS products, this could mean personalizing content recommendations, customizing dashboard views, or adjusting user interfaces based on individual usage patterns.

3. Enhancing Data Analytics and Insights

AI can process large volumes of data much faster than traditional methods, providing more accurate insights and predictive analytics. Startups can use AI-driven analytics to forecast customer behavior, detect anomalies, and identify trends.

4. Automating Customer Support and Engagement

AI-powered chatbots and virtual assistants can enhance customer support by resolving common queries, directing customers to relevant resources, or even predicting issues before they arise. This reduces the load on support teams while providing timely and consistent customer service.

What are the risks of building a SaaS company today?

Building a SaaS company today presents unique risks that entrepreneurs need to navigate carefully. Here are some of the key risks and challenges:

1. Market Saturation

SaaS market trends show that the industry has become highly competitive, with many companies offering similar solutions.

2. Customer Acquisition Costs (CAC)

With increased competition, the cost of acquiring customers has risen significantly. Paid marketing, sales resources, and promotional efforts can quickly drain budgets, making it essential to optimize CAC.

3. Churn and Retention Challenges

SaaS market trends show that customer churn remains a major issue for SaaS companies, as subscription-based models rely on consistent revenue streams. If users don't see ongoing value, they may cancel their subscriptions, leading to revenue loss.

4. Pricing Pressure

The SaaS market is known for price sensitivity. Competitors may lower prices to attract customers, forcing companies to match or reduce their own pricing, which can impact profitability.

5. Data Security and Compliance

SaaS companies often handle sensitive customer data, which brings significant legal and regulatory requirements. Ensuring compliance with data protection regulations (e.g., GDPR, CCPA) and safeguarding against data breaches is critical.

On October 8th and 9th, The Woodruff Arts Center and Atlanta Symphony Hall came alive as the 17th annual Venture Atlanta conference began! 

Venture Atlanta has been a beacon in the Southeast’s tech ecosystem since its inception in 2007. Venture Atlanta 2024 was no different. And, it was our largest conference to date! Over 1,600 founders, investors, and service providers came together, 50 companies pitched to a packed theater, and one even walked away with a $500K investment prize!

We also welcomed our second class to the Venture Atlanta Alumni Hall of Fame. Congrats to:

Keep reading to get a full recap of everything that happened at Venture Atlanta 2024.

Venture Atlanta 2024 by the Numbers

Key Takeaways From Day 1 of Venture Atlanta 2024

VC Panel & Breakfast: “Is SaaS Dead?”

The first panel of Venture Atlanta 2024 was sponsored by CBRE and talked about the outlook of SaaS, with insights from VCs Leura Craig (Outlander VC), Mark Suster (Upfront Ventures), and Victoria Treyger (Felicis Ventures). Moderated by Lynne Laube of Valor Ventures, here are some of the biggest takeaways:

The panel also dished out some key advice for founders: control your burn rates, avoid hiring a full C-suite too early, and prioritize building strong, long-term investor relationships. 

The consensus? The future of tech isn’t about chasing buzzwords but solving real-world problems with innovative, forward-thinking solutions.

Goodie Nation Thought Leadership Session: Why Resilience Is Critical for VCs and Their Portfolio Companies

Sponsored by Goodie Nation, this thought leadership session (moderated by Claude Alan Woodruff of Founder Mental Health Pledge) brought together Kendra Koch (Divergently), Chad Harris (Open Opportunity Fund), and Brett Haskell (Sports Psychologist) to talk about the importance of reliance for VS portfolio companies.

Here are the key takeaways from the panel:

J.P. Morgan Thought Leadership Session: Navigating Capital Currents: Trends in Fundraising for Southeastern Startups

In the J.P. Morgan Thought Leadership Session, panelists Joe De Pinho (Riverwood Capital), Vanessa Larco (NEA), and Howard Lerman (Roam) shared insights on strategic capital raising in today’s cautious market.

Some important advice from each panelist:

Altogether, the panel recommended balancing capital raising with key performance indicators (KPIs) and being cautious with early-stage secondary sales. They also noted the importance of product-market fit, customer retention, and smart capital allocation for growth. 

Overall, founders were encouraged to stay focused, raise capital thoughtfully, and prioritize long-term success over short-term gains.

Key Takeaways From Venture Atlanta Day 2

Founders Breakfast

At the Day Two Founders Breakfast, a lively discussion centered around lessons learned, mistakes made, and strategies for scaling businesses. Hosted by notable founders and VA alums Eric Spett (Terminus and Scalebound) and Rob Forman (SalesLoft and Scalebound), the session offered candid insights into the journey of building and growing companies.

Key Lessons on Leadership and Growth:

Advice on Scaling and Prioritization:

Executive Roundtable: Lessons Learned From C-Suite Executives

During this Executive Roundtable, seasoned executives from various industries gave a few kernels of wisdom on what they’ve learned from being in the C-suite throughout their careers. The panel included Ryan Baretto (CEO of Sprout Social), Tom Buiocchi (former CEO of ServiceChannel), Carilu Dietrich (former CMO of Atlassian), and Marty Osborn (CEO of Be Better Inc.).

Behind the Scenes of Venture Atlanta: What Does It Take to Be a Chair?

In this session, Venture Atlanta 2024 Chairman Joey Womack introduced 2025 Chair Elizabeth Stephens, giving insight into the dedication and vision required to lead Venture Atlanta. 

Both are incredibly excited to see what the future of Venture Atlanta holds as Stephens steps into the role of chair!

Catalyst by Wellstar Thought Leadership Session: Innovating Healthcare: Bridging Clinical Expertise with Entrepreneurial Vision

The Catalyst by Wellstar Thought Leadership Panel explored the intersection of healthcare and innovation, focusing on fostering risk-taking and collaboration in a traditionally risk-averse industry. Panelists Beth Kost-Woodrow, Dr. Daniel Fortes, Nicole Cook, and Snehal Doshi discussed how healthcare professionals and startups can work together to drive change.

Here are some of the key insights the panel discussed:

Risk and Innovation in Healthcare:

Patient-Centered Insights and Technology:

Balancing Mission and Profit:

The discussion was lively and encouraging, highlighted by a huge announcement that Alvee, founded by Nicole Cook, is Catalyst by Wellstar’s latest investment in the health innovation space. We look forward to seeing the exceptional work and growth of Alvee with the financial backing of Catalyst by Wellstar.

Venture Atlanta 2024 Keynote: Dawn Staley

At Venture Atlanta 2024, we were honored to have Dawn Staley, highly decorated head coach of the South Carolina women's basketball team, deliver an inspiring keynote, sharing her journey from the Philadelphia housing projects to becoming one of the most successful players and coaches in women’s basketball. Her talk centered on leadership, resilience, and personal growth, offering lessons that apply to both sports and business, including:

The Importance of Process

Building a Complementary Support System

Leadership Through Tough Decisions

Personal Standards and the Power of Discipline

Venture Atlanta 2024 Pitch Competition Winners

At this year’s Venture Atlanta conference, we capitalized on the success of last year’s pitch competition format by running it back this year! On day one, 50 companies in the Seed, Early, and Growth stage startup categories pitched to a theater full of investors and other entrepreneurs, where an audience vote selected the top companies from each category to move on to the next round.

On day two, those selected companies returned for a live Q&A with a panel of investor judges—the top Seed Stage startup was awarded $500,000 as an investment prize for winning the first annual Startup Showcase Live!

Here are the top companies that made it for each category:

Seed Stage Winner: SmartWiz

SmartWiz is revolutionizing the tax preparation industry with its AI-powered "co-pilot" for tax professionals. Positioned as a solution that simplifies the complex and time-consuming process of filing taxes, SmartWiz allows tax professionals to upload documents, engage in a conversation with the platform, and have AI input the necessary data—all in a fraction of the time. What typically takes tax professionals four hours is now reduced to just 20 minutes.

With $1.1 million in revenue and recently securing IRS approval, SmartWiz is among the few companies in the tax software space bringing true innovation. The platform allows tax pros to integrate and manage file returns in one place, streamlining a traditionally cumbersome process.

After a well-executed pitch at Venture Atlanta, SmartWiz was named the winner of the Startup Showcase Live, securing a $500K investment prize for their ambitious mission to modernize tax prep software. Congrats to SmartWiz!

Other Finalists

Early Stage Winner: Citiri

Citiri is tackling the staggering 99.5% failure rate of infrastructure projects with its innovative CitiriOS platform. Designed to focus on operations-centric data models and stakeholder engagement, Citiri helps ensure project benefits and economic outcomes improve. 

Initially focused on the aviation sector, Citiri is expanding into transportation, shortening sales cycles with a targeted marketing approach and a reputation for articulating clear value propositions. The platform’s average implementation takes just three weeks, embedding best practices directly into the software and making it a user-friendly solution for large infrastructure projects.

Looking ahead, Citiri plans to enhance its executive dashboard and add fintech services for ancillary partners, continuing its mission to revolutionize infrastructure project success. Citiri’s impressive pitch won them the Early Stage Startup Pitch Competition at Venture Atlanta. Well done!

Other Finalists

Growth Stage Winner: Document Crunch

Document Crunch is transforming the $13 trillion construction industry with its AI-powered compliance platform. With years of experience as a construction attorney, co-founder Josh Levy recognized that contract compliance is a major cause of the billions lost annually in construction. Document Crunch solves this by helping general contractors and subcontractors manage risk and ensure contract obligations are met, from the back office to job sites.

Unlike any other platform in the space, Document Crunch is the only end-to-end compliance solution tailored for construction. Document Crunch won the Growth Stage Pitch competition at Venture Atlanta 2024 after a standout performance!

Other Finalists

Venture Atlanta 2024 and Beyond

Thank you for attending Venture Atlanta 2024! This was our biggest and best year yet—and we’re incredibly excited for what next year has to hold.

There are so many people who came together to make Venture Atlanta 2024 possible, so a massive thank you goes out to:

To stay in touch with everything going on with VA and get all the info ahead of time for next year’s conference, be sure to subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on X, LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook.

The Venture Atlanta conference is the premier tech conference in the Southeast. Each year, thousands of startups and investors from across the Southeast and Atlanta’s tech ecosystem congregate at The Woodruff Arts Center and Atlanta Symphony Hall to pitch, network, meet, and connect. The experience gets even bigger and better year after year—check out the schedule to see how chocked full of events we are.

With so much going on at Venture Atlanta every year, we’d like to share some tips and insights to help attendees maximize their participation. Whether you’re an entrepreneur or investor, there are plenty of ways for you to maximize your time at Venture Atlanta. Here are a few tips.

Tips for Entrepreneurs at Venture Capital Events

We’ve discussed the benefits of attending a startup conference in our “Why You Should Attend a Venture Capital Conference” blog, including networking, mentorship, pitching, and talent acquisition.

Let’s assume that you’ve already secured your ticket for this year’s VA conference. How do you make the most out of this opportunity?

How to Maximize Networking at VC Events

Networking is one of the most important aspects of Venture Atlanta. Hundreds of investors from across the country come to the Venture Atlanta conference to see the most innovative startups coming out of the Southeast. Here’s how you can make the most of the networking opportunities at Venture Atlanta:

Pitching

One of the main components of the Venture Atlanta conference is pitching on stage (broken out into the annual pitch competition and Startup Showcase Live). Here are some expert tips on how to make the most out of your pitch:

  1. Prepare for Your Pitch AND the Followup Questions From Investors

The pitch is definitely important (here are our tips on pitching to investors), but that just gets you the date. What happens next is just as important. Whether participating in the judges' Q&A on the VA stage or meeting 1:1, be prepared to answer these questions from investors.

  1. Learn From Past Pitch Competition Winners

Hear from growth stage pitch competition winner Debbie Gordon of Cloud Range, early stage pitch competition winner Joshua Silver of Rainforest, and Seed Stage pitch competition winner Margo Jordan of Enrichly about how they prepped for their pitch. 

How Investors Can Make The Most Out of The Venture Atlanta Conference

If you’re an investor attending the Venture Atlanta conference, there are a couple of ways you can maximize your time at the conference.

Find High-Potential Companies

Most Fortune 500 companies began as a startup. The companies at Venture Atlanta could be the same—it’s your time to get in on the ground floor. To find high-potential startups at the Venture Atlanta conference, here’s what you can do:

Networking With Other Investors

At the Venture Atlanta conference, it’s not just about connecting with startups—it’s also a valuable opportunity to network with fellow investors. We host exclusive, investor-only events designed for you to build relationships, exchange insights, and collaborate with other investors. 

To make the most of these opportunities, be sure to check the event schedule ahead of time. You can see which investor-only sessions, panels, and networking mixers are planned, allowing you to strategically plan your day and ensure you don’t miss out on key chances to connect with peers.

Attend the Venture Atlanta Conference

As you can see, whether you’re an investor or a founder, the Venture Atlanta conference is the perfect place to put your best foot forward. It’s an opportunity to build connections, learn from industry leaders, and take your business or investment strategy to the next level. The relationships and insights gained at this event can be game-changing, whether you’re seeking funding, mentorship, or the next high-potential startup to add to your portfolio.
And if you haven’t registered yet, click here to register and secure your spot at Venture Atlanta. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this dynamic event that shapes the future of innovation and investment in the Southeast!

The fast rise of the Atlanta tech scene over the past decade as a leading hub for startups and innovation is no accident. Several factors make the city a powerhouse in the tech and startup ecosystem:

According to the Metro Atlanta Chamber, the city is home to over 35 corporate innovation centers, making it one of the fastest-growing cities for startups in the U.S. Atlanta's tech scene continues to thrive, with entrepreneurs, investors, and tech enthusiasts flocking to the city.

As large corporations turn to Atlanta tech ventures for acquisition opportunities, more venture capitalists are taking interest. Some claim that there aren’t enough funding opportunities in Atlanta, others say there are plenty. While Georgia still trails behind the Valley, Boston, New York and others in total capital investment, our city is experiencing major growth and attracting new opportunities from all over the world.

Good ideas and strong business plans drive investment opportunities, regardless of location – and our alumni are solid proof, with over $7.7 billion in capital raised so far.

So, whether you’re looking to raise your next round or just get your foot in the door, we’re here to help you navigate the Atlanta startup ecosystem.

Major Events: Atlanta Tech Week and InnovATL

Atlanta is home to two must-attend events that drive the city's thriving tech scene and startup ecosystem:

Atlanta Tech Week

InnovATL (Atlanta Innovation Month)

Both events are integral to fostering collaboration, entrepreneurship, and growth within Atlanta's vibrant tech scene.

Venture Capital Opportunities in Atlanta

Atlanta’s venture capital scene has flourished in recent years, providing startups with access to critical funding opportunities. These firms, along with others, are helping to fuel Atlanta’s reputation as a hub for startup companies, enabling local entrepreneurs to scale their ventures both regionally and nationally.

 Atlanta-Friendly VC Funds:

Atlanta-Friendly Angel Investors: 

Atlanta Incubators and Accelerators

One of the key factors contributing to the city’s success in the startup world is the robust support system of incubators and accelerators in Atlanta. These programs are instrumental in guiding Atlanta startups from idea to execution, giving them the resources they need to thrive in the Atlanta tech scene.

Atlanta-Friendly Accelerators and Incubators

Startup Awards That Atlanta Companies Should Apply For

Awards are a great way for your startup to gain visibility and credibility in the community. It also helps to have backlinks and social media promotions from the major accounts that host these awards. Here are some of the top startup and tech awards Atlanta companies are eligible for.

How Venture Atlanta Supports the Startup Ecosystem

As the premier venture capital event in the Southeast, Venture Atlanta plays a critical role in supporting the growth of the city’s startups. Venture Atlanta connects local entrepreneurs with the funding, resources, talent, mentorship, and customers they need to succeed. 

Tech companies that have participated at Venture Atlanta have raised over $7.7 billion collectively, making it a driving force behind the city’s startup success stories. Stay updated on the latest announcements from Venture Atlanta to see how your startup can leverage this incredible perk of being in Atlanta. 

FAQ

What makes Atlanta a great place for tech startups?
Atlanta’s unique combination of a thriving entrepreneurial community, affordable living, and access to venture capital makes it an ideal place for startups to grow and succeed.

How can I connect with investors in Atlanta?
Attend key events like Venture Atlanta, Atlanta Tech Week, and InnovATL, or join incubators and accelerators like ATDC and Atlanta Tech Village for ongoing opportunities to meet investors.

What are the must-attend tech events in Atlanta?
Be sure to check out Atlanta Tech Week in June and InnovATL and Venture Atlanta in October to engage with the city's booming tech scene.Where can I find more resources for startups in Atlanta?
Atlanta offers a wide range of resources through incubators, accelerators, and co-working spaces like Atlanta Tech Village, ATDC, and The Farm. Additionally, networking events and conferences provide opportunities to connect with key players in the Atlanta startup ecosystem.

Are you an entrepreneur looking to secure funding? Or, are you an investor searching for the next addition to your portfolio? There’s no better place to connect than at a venture capital conference!

Venture capital conferences are hubs for innovation, bringing the brightest minds and fastest-growing companies together to connect, learn, and grow. These conferences take place all over the world, giving entrepreneurs a unique chance to get their startups in front of potential investors and helping investors discover high-potential startups they may have never heard of!

In this blog, we'll go in-depth on the importance of attending a venture capital conference for both investors and entrepreneurs. Plus, we’ll give you some sneak previews of what the largest venture capital conference in the Southeast has to offer. 

What Are the Benefits of Attending a Venture Capital Conference for Entrepreneurs?

Here are a few frequently asked questions explaining the venture capital event benefits for entrepreneurs.

How can a venture capital conference help with funding?

Venture capital conferences give entrepreneurs the chance to get in front of investors that they might not otherwise be able to. And they can share their story with hundreds of investors at once versus having to spend time and money traveling from city to city.

With over $7.7B in capital raised and $17B in exits, Venture Atlanta has a successful track record of helping companies secure anything from seed funding to Series C to acquisitions! Venture Atlanta also hosts a seed-stage pitch competition called Startup Showcase Live, where seed-stage companies can compete to earn a $500,000 investment prize! Learn more about 2023 winner Enrichly.

Can attending a venture capital conference help in finding new customers?

Not only do venture capital conferences lead to new business-investor relationships, they can also create new business-customer relationships.

How?

Here’s how Acuity President Matthew May describes it:

“At least once a year, someone gets a client through Venture Atlanta that’s worth telling a story about…The best story in recent years is from a health IT company. One of the hospital groups in attendance watched this health IT company presentation and became their biggest client.”

Attending a venture capital conference can help get your startup's name out there, boosting visibility and credibility. Once your company is worth telling a story about, it can help get bigger corporations on board in the startup's earliest stages.

How do venture capital conferences assist in talent acquisition?

Entrepreneurs can also find new talent by showcasing their companies and meeting job seekers at venture capital conferences. Many founders use venture capital conferences as platforms like Inc. 500 or Best Places To Work to show off the perks of working for their company, helping increase applications for open positions.

Venture Atlanta attracts the top tech and business students from surrounding universities like Georgia Tech, the University of Georgia, Emory, SCAD, Kennesaw, and Morehouse College. If you’re looking to hire for entry-level roles, this is the kind of talent you want to get in front of!

What is the role of mentorship at a venture capital conference?

In addition, entrepreneurs can get mentorship opportunities from established founders and investors. Many venture capital conferences have an amazing alumni network that CEOs can get introduced to. Plus, many former companies who have found success at a startup funding conference come back to lend a helping hand to startups just getting off the ground. Entrepreneurship is hard! It helps to have someone to go to for support.

This year at Venture Atlanta we’re introducing exclusive CEO roundtable sessions where founders can get advice from successful CEOs who have gone before them.

What Are the Benefits of Attending a Venture Capital Conference for Investors?

For investors, attending a venture capital conference can be beneficial too. Here are a few venture capital event benefits for investors.

How can a venture capital conference help in finding promising startups?

Venture capital conferences are breeding grounds for innovative startups, perfect for investors itching to discover what’s going to take off next. 

For the Venture Atlanta conference this year, more startups applied to pitch than ever before, and only about ~15% get selected, so you’ll truly be seeing the best of the best across the entire Southeast! Additionally, each presenting company is vetted and coached by the most innovative portfolio companies, so investors can be confident that each pitch will be worth their attention.

How do venture capital conferences assist in networking with other investors?

At venture capital conferences, investors are encouraged to connect with other venture capitalists and angel investors to share insights and co-invest in opportunities! At Venture Atlanta, we offer several investor-only networking events including pickleball, the venture crawl, and the women in capital breakfast. 

What industry trends and insights can you get from venture capital conferences?

For investors, being in the know about which industries are about to scale is crucial. Luckily, venture capital conferences provide a prime opportunity to do just that. 

Venture capital conferences offer a front-row seat to the latest industry trends and developments. Investors gain early access to cutting-edge innovations and industry-redefining ideas. Whether it’s a breakthrough in AI, a new fintech solution, or the latest in sustainable technology, the learnings from the speakers, founders, and investors at these conferences can shape investment strategies and enhance the ability to identify high-potential opportunities.

What is the role of mentorship at a venture capital conference for investors?

Beyond the financial aspect, investors can mentor the next generation of entrepreneurs at venture capital conferences. Investors can share their experience and expertise, helping young companies navigate challenges and expand their businesses.

Can attending a venture capital conference help in building a strong investment portfolio?

Attending a venture capital conference is an excellent way to build a well-diversified portfolio. These events bring together a wide range of startups from various sectors and stages of development. Investors get the chance to explore new areas of interest and meet with founders first-hand, learning about their ventures and finding opportunities that fit with their current portfolios. Hear from 11-11 Ventures about how they found five of their portfolio companies at Venture Atlanta!

Still not convinced? If you’re a tech fund, check out this article on the top reasons to attend a venture capital conference, with questions answered by investors who’ve attended the Venture Atlanta conference.

Attend the Largest Venture Capital Conference in the Southeast

If you’re an investor or entrepreneur, the best way to reap the benefits of attending a venture capital conference is to go to Venture Atlanta!

Venture Atlanta is the biggest venture capital conference in the Southeast. From the Startup Showcase Live to keynote presentations and tons of events along the way, Venture Atlanta is the place for investors and entrepreneurs to meet, network, and build strong working relationships.

Register for Venture Atlanta today to secure your spot at this year’s event!

cross-circle