Brad Feld's Insights on Venture Capital

This article provides a summary of a conversation with Brad Feld, a prominent figure in the venture capital world. The interview delves into a wide range of topics, offering valuable perspectives on various aspects of venture capital and the startup ecosystem.

• The evolution of blogging in the VC community, with Feld's seminal Term Sheet series.
• The importance of "show, don't tell" and Feld's preference for demos over traditional pitch decks.
• A detailed look at the Foundry Group's investment philosophy, including its "Themes" and deal evaluation process.
• Feld's journey into venture capital, starting with his angel investing experiences and the creation of Mobius.
• The impact of Techstars, a program co-founded by Feld, in fostering entrepreneurial communities.
• Feld's perspective on venture capital in Boulder and other smaller communities.
• The challenges of finding and developing experienced Product Managers in startups.
• The Startup Visa program, an initiative to attract foreign entrepreneurs to the United States.
• Feld's investment in Oblong, a company developing spatial operating systems and its potential to revolutionize user interfaces.

The Importance of "Show, Don't Tell" in Venture Capital

Feld emphasizes the value of demonstrating a product's functionality over lengthy written descriptions. While pitch decks remain prevalent, he prefers a more hands-on approach, allowing investors to experience the product firsthand. This aligns with the need for investors to quickly understand a company's value proposition and its potential for success.

The Foundry Group's Venture Capital Philosophy

The Foundry Group focuses on Internet Software Companies in the United States, employing a thematic approach to identify investment opportunities. The firm's "Themes" provide a framework for evaluating potential investments, ensuring alignment with their investment strategy. These themes include:

• Human Computer Interaction
• Glue (software layers that connect online services)
• Protocol (technology protocols and markets built around them)
• Digital Life
• Distribution

The Foundry Group's deal evaluation process prioritizes a quick assessment of whether a company fits within its themes. This efficient approach allows for faster decision-making and avoids wasting time on opportunities that do not align with their focus.

Techstars: Fostering Entrepreneurial Communities

Techstars is a renowned startup accelerator that provides mentorship, resources, and funding to early-stage companies. Co-founded by Brad Feld, Techstars has played a significant role in revitalizing entrepreneurial communities in Boulder, Boston, and Seattle. The program's impact extends beyond investment, fostering a vibrant network of entrepreneurs, mentors, and investors.

The Startup Visa Program: Attracting Global Talent

The Startup Visa program aims to simplify the process for foreign entrepreneurs to secure visas and obtain investment in the United States. This initiative addresses the challenges faced by foreign entrepreneurs in navigating the complex visa system and gaining access to funding. By streamlining the process, the program aims to attract talented individuals and promote innovation within the U.S. startup ecosystem.

Oblong: The Future of User Interfaces

Feld's investment in Oblong underscores his interest in companies pushing the boundaries of technology and user experience. Oblong, inspired by the Minority Report film, focuses on developing spatial operating systems that transcend traditional mouse-and-keyboard interfaces. The company's vision involves creating more intuitive and immersive interactions with technology, promising to revolutionize how we engage with computers.

The Role of Product Management in Startups

Feld recognizes the critical role of Product Managers in the success of startups, particularly those experiencing rapid growth. He emphasizes the need for Product Managers to be "CEO of their job," possessing a broad perspective and ability to make informed decisions across various aspects of the product development process.

Brad Feld's Legacy in Venture Capital

Through his investments, mentorship, and advocacy, Brad Feld has made significant contributions to the venture capital landscape. His willingness to share his knowledge and experience has inspired and empowered countless entrepreneurs. His insights on pitch decks, venture capital philosophy, and the importance of community demonstrate his deep understanding of the startup ecosystem and its complexities.

Conclusion: A Visionary Leader in Venture Capital

The conversation with Brad Feld offers valuable insights into the world of venture capital, covering a wide range of topics from investment strategies to the future of user interfaces. His passion for fostering innovation and supporting entrepreneurs is evident throughout the interview, making him a true visionary leader in the venture capital community. His insights provide valuable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs, investors, and anyone seeking to understand the dynamics of the ever-evolving startup landscape.