Experienced Voices

Jeff Wesley is the executive director of Spartan Innovations and Red Cedar Ventures, two subsidiaries of the Michigan State University Research Foundation where he oversees venture ideation, creation, business planning, and investment. He’s also the executive director of Michigan Rise, which partners with Michigan’s tech entrepreneurs to help commercialize innovative technologies.

Jeff discusses the role that university research has within the entrepreneurial ecosystem, specifically the people and resources that make up this network. Jeff also describes the pathways that entrepreneurs may take as they explore starting a company or commercializing their research.

Harvey Homan, CEO of MetasTx, LLC

 Harvey Homan has been active in the entrepreneurial arena as both an entrepreneur and angel investor for many years, following a successful corporate career in which he had leadership in the development of OTC brands. He draws on his breadth of experience in biotech, medical device, digital health and pharmaceutical to provide important insight to entrepreneurs who are building their startups and seeking funding.   He is the the Chapter President of the North Jersey group of national angel organization Keiretsu Forum.   

Tom White is Founder and President of Accurate Mechanical, a commercial and residential HVAC company serving Central Ohio. He began his entrepreneurial journey 40 years ago and now shares his experience of bringing a son into Accurate and how he is preparing him for a leadership role.

Area President of Keiretsu Forum MidAtlantic and SouthEast

What makes a "good deal" for an Angel Investor? 

In this episode of the Experienced Voices podcast, host Jeanne Gray sits down with Howard Lubert—Co-founder of Keiretsu Forum Mid-Atlantic & SouthEast and Fund Manager of Accelerator Venture Partners. 

With a career spanning over 10,000 pitch reviews across every business sector, Howard shares his "vantage point" on what it takes to get funded in today’s market.

As the leader of the fastest-growing regions within the world’s largest accredited investor network, Howard pulls back the curtain on the Keiretsu Forum application process, how to avoid funding dealbreakers, and the secret to determining a fair startup valuation.

Whether you are a first-time founder or a serial entrepreneur, this deep dive will help you understand the mindset of an angel group and how to build a win-win relationship with your investors.

Key Takeaways from This Episode:

• The specific criteria angel investors use to write a check.
• How to determine if your startup is "fundable."
• How to navigate the vetting and qualification process for entrepreneurs.
• Strategies for building long-term investor relationships that go beyond the pitch.