In this AMA episode of "Venture Declassified," hosts Mike Kelly, Jacob Schpok, and Ben Pidgeon break down what it really takes to succeed in early-stage venture capital—especially for students and aspiring founders.
 
 The conversation kicks off with each speaker’s personal journey into VC, highlighting different career paths from software development to entrepreneurship and fund management. They then dive into the fundamentals of evaluating startups at various stages, unpacking what makes a company truly “venture backable.” Key factors such as market size, strong founding teams, product-market fit, and timing are explored with plenty of candid examples.
 
 Listeners get a hands-on explanation of how VC funds measure success through return multiples, manage risk, and deal with the unpredictability of startup outcomes. The hosts pull back the curtain on fund structures, the art of raising capital from both institutional LPs and local angels, and the critical role of continued investment through multiple rounds.
 
 A major highlight is their practical discussion around the use of AI in both investing and startup operations. They share how they leverage tools like ChatGPT and NotebookLM for market research, pitch analysis, and even internal business processes—underscoring that experimenting with AI is essential for anyone entering the modern business world.
 
 Packed with straight talk, actionable advice, and plenty of laughs, this episode offers an invaluable peek into the VC playbook and the evolving role of technology in shaping tomorrow’s investment landscape.

 

 

Key Topics

•      Venture Fund Structures and Investment Approach

•      Startup Investment Criteria and Decision Factors

•      Economics of VC firms

•      Raising Venture and Angel Capital

•      The Realities and Mechanics of Venture Investing

•      When (and When NOT) to Raise Venture Capital

•      Application of AI in Venture and Startup Work
 
 

Connect

Mike Kelly

•      LinkedIn

•      Website

•      Developer Town

 

Ben Pidgeon

•      LinkedIn

•      VisionTech

 

Jacob Schpok

•      LinkedIn

•      Elevate Ventures

 

Connect with DeveloperTown
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