Bootstrapping VS Venture Funding: Know Your Startup Game, SMART Session

Have you been wondering which funding model would work best for you and your startup? Do you find the world of venture capital, funding options and terms like bootstrapping confusing?

If so, this latest SMART Session might be for you!

Bootstrapping vs. Venture Funding: Know Your Startup Game will feature two industry experts, Scotty Allen and Yaniv Bernstein, who will engage in a dynamic panel discussion on the pros and cons of bootstrapping and venture capital funding.

This session promises to be informative and engaging. It will include real-world examples and expert insights to help you navigate the complex startup funding landscape.

Join us for an evening of debate, insight, nibbles and networking - whether you are an aspiring entrepreneur or a seasoned founder, you'll walk away with actionable strategies and inspiration from the top.

Here's what you can expect from this session:

• Learn the basics, including definitions, key differences, and when each model is appropriate.
• Explore the benefits, such as control and equity retention, alongside challenges like limited resources and slower growth potential.
• Discuss the infusion of substantial funds, access to networks, and expertise, as well as the potential downsides, such as loss of control and increased pressure from investors.
• Analyse real-world examples of successful startups that have utilised either bootstrapping or venture capital to grow, including insights into their decision-making processes.
• Breakdown strategies for scaling a business under each model and how funding impacts growth trajectories.
• Explore the elements of a successful pitch, giving you an understanding of what investors are looking for and how to effectively communicate your business's value proposition.
• Review legal considerations, equity structures, and contractual obligations that founders must know when choosing a funding model.
• Discuss how the choice of funding impacts company culture, hiring, and long-term strategic decisions.
• Examine insights into emerging trends in the funding landscape, including the rise of alternative funding models like crowdfunding and revenue-based financing.

About the speakers:

Yaniv Bernstein

Yaniv Bernstein is a seasoned entrepreneur and executive with a rich background in technology and startups. As the co-host of The Startup Podcast and a former executive and engineering leader at companies like Google and Airtasker, Yaniv brings a wealth of experience in venture capital and strategic development. He mentors emerging entrepreneurs through Funding Fit and contributes as a Non-Executive Director at The Violet Initiative. Yaniv's expertise spans strategic planning, venture capital, and fostering innovative ecosystems, making him a pivotal voice in discussions about the future of startup financing and growth.

Scotty Allen

Scotty Allen is a dynamic entrepreneur and the visionary founder of The Product Bus, a pioneering service designed to help founders bring their ideas to life without prematurely relinquishing equity. With his rich background spanning education technology, product management, and podcast production at Swivol Media, Scotty offers a unique blend of technical and creative expertise. Scotty's approach is grounded in extensive experience managing and rebranding products to foster community and customer retention, as demonstrated during his tenure overseeing the Daymap Product at Loop Software.