Thinking Outside the Term Sheet: How Angel Capital Adds Value

Raising angel capital during seed stage funding is a great choice for most companies because it adds an extra layer of security beyond the term sheet. Not only are most angel investors well versed in entrepreneurship, but many also hold the key to leading industry contacts that may be crucial in the early development stages of a company. Nothing screams credible like being backed by an angel with a respectable reputation in their industry.

If you're a company looking for funding be smart, do your homework and think about what your capital brings to the table. Don't just take money to take money, consider your options. Although it may seem like rounding up angels is as difficult as herding cats, it's definitely worth the effort.

If you are lucky enough to have these guys on you're side, chances are they'll be just as determined to see your company succeed as you are.

Introducing The New Silicon Valley of Russia

Russia is taking big strides to encourage innovation from within its country. Recently, they've invested over 85 Billion Rubles ($2.8 Billion US dollars) in creating the new "silicon valley" of Russia. The new center is located in the city of Skolkovo,  just west of Moscow. President Dmitry Medvedev is the brains behind this initiative and has gained tremendous amounts of support from some of the leading global players in innovation including Google, Intel, Cisco, IBM, Boeing and the list is growing.

Although they still have a long way to go, it's great to see progress in the works. I'm interested in seeing the what Russia comes up with and how this will effect future business deals in a place where most investors have otherwise feared to tread.

Icy Road Ahead


If there's one conclusion I've come to, after moving to the metropolis of the universe from small town 'sconsin, it's definitely this...

Tackling a learning curve is much like taking a corner on an unexpected icy road.

If you put on the breaks once you hit it, you're almost guaranteed to wreck. The only way to stay on track is to act against your natural tendencies, steering into the turn or leaning into the curve as you go.

Interweb Dieting


WHOA...where have the last 3 hours disappeared to?!? This is a question many of us ask ourselves on a daily basis while perusing the interweb and other technological devices ehm ehm iPhones, Blackberries, iPods and iPads-to only name a few.

Checking and re-checking e-mail accounts, Twitter, Facebook and RSS feeds is one hell of an all-you-can-check buffet, and binge interwebbing isn't healthy for anyone. So, unless your brain and productivity levels are trying out for "The Next Biggest Loser"-literally, make the internet part of a well balanced diet. Give your brain all of the real world nutrients and vitamins it needs!

Leading the Way

OUT with Management, IN with Leadership.

Lead a movement and
Encourage others to engage in
Activities that challenge the status quo.
Don on innovation to
Establish smarter solutions, breaking the
Rules as you go.
Seize new opportunities with your 
Head held high,
Imagine the 
Paramount results you will find.

New Year, New Me, New You!


Over the past few weeks I've been scribbling, mapping and drawing out a complete master plan for 2011. After thoughtfully planning out every major detail of my new and improved life, I came to a startling conclusion. I've been completely self-centered for the past 24 years when it comes to making resolutions.

A New Year's Resolution isn't just about me. In fact, after much reflection, I've decided it's about YOU!

I'm making it my personal duty every day this year to help YOU. Friends, family members, community, general public, co-workers, strangers, homeless people...I'm helping everyone!! Whether it be a shoulder to cry on, a laugh to be shared, a helping hand or a smiling face, I'll be here. Well actually, I'll be THERE. Wishing everyone a prosperous and happy new year!

cai·no·to·pho·bi·a


Cainotophobia  cai·no·to·pho·bi·a (kā-nō-tə-fō'bē-ə)
n.  An abnormal fear of newness.

Do you or your loved ones suffer from the same routine day after day, night after night? Is breaking into a feverish sweat at the thought of trying something new a daily occurrence? If so, you may be a victim of cainotophobia

For information on coping strategies, please click here.