Early Stage Financing: Pass the Bread Please!

Does raising early stage capital in today's market seem daunting? Perhaps more like the quest of a 21st century Don Quixote? What companies are getting funded and why? This forum will focus on today's realities in the types and sources of financing, the money raising process, what you should know before approaching investors, and finally, how to manage the capital already raised and posture your company for a successful future round. Panelists will explore topics including:* Factors to consider in choosing the type of financing* Valuation and control matters* Critical things you should know before that big meeting with a potential investor* Key elements that investors are looking for in a company* Local funding versus out of state or international prospects* When to start planning for the next roundMembers of our distinguished panel will provide both a "company" and an "investor" perspective in raising capital. Our panelists have many years of unique experiences dealing on both sides of financing, including angel financing, venture capital, institutional investing, international funding, and even tapping into federal research grants. Come hear our incredible line-up of panelists share their views on what it takes to raise an early round of financing in what has turned out to be a very tough market. This interactive discussion will provide you an opportunity to ask questions and hear some valuable ideas first hand to take away and apply in your fundraising endeavors.Moderator:

* Jesse Berst, CEO, IZ Inc.Panelists:

* Bill McAleer, Managing Director, Voyager Capital* Mark Lundstrom, CEO, Ripcord Systems* Deepak Amin, CEO, vJungle, Inc.* Dan Rosen, Managing Partner, Frazier Technology VenturesJoin us at the Bellevue Hyatt Regency on Wednesday, April 18, 2001. Networking and registration begin at 5:00 p.m. Dinner is served at 6:15 p.m.To reserve your space now, visit our website at www.mitwa.org or call the MITEF office at (206)283-9595. Tickets are $35, $45 after 5:00 p.m. on Friday, April 13, 2001. No refunds after 5:00 p.m., Friday, April 13, 2001. To reserve a table of 10, call the MITEF office.