Suggestions
Michael D. Lam
Finance & Analytics | ClimateTech
Michael D. Lam is an Independent Financial Analyst at Validity Impax, based in Portland, Oregon. He is recognized as a finance and analytics leader with a background in supporting the growth of disruptive technologies. His educational credentials include studies at HarvardX, indicating a strong foundation in finance and analytics.
On LinkedIn, he describes his role as focusing on leveraging data and analytics to drive financial decision-making and strategic growth for organizations. His profile highlights his experience in the finance sector, emphasizing his ability to navigate complex financial landscapes and contribute to innovative solutions in the industry .1
Highlights
1 common objection from VCs that are misleading at face value and what to do about it:
"I've seen this before" / "it isn't unique" 😔
🤔 Seems reasonable. It makes sense to only invest in something new, exciting and unique.
But I think the original intent of this criteria isn't towards the general product itself. There will always be competition and most companies won't create a new market. Being first doesn't necessarily mean you'll be the industry winner. Tesla was not the first EV.
And then, there's a DIFFERENCE between an opinion on an industry/verticle/product vs the specific company. Green cement vs company z targeting a specific market
A more helpful way to make a company unique is clarity on its strategy/business model and execution. Usually for climate startups it will be around product design and peformance, intangible assets, scaling abilities, emission reduction scale etc. All this culminates to a company's competitive edge.
So the better questions are: "What's your competitive advantage?" "What strong evidence or argument do you have to prove this?"
#startup #climatetech #venturecapital
📣📣 (Climate Tech Founders)
Here's a simple yet helpful tool from CEV on emission reduction calculation.
Most helpful are the questions on the page to guide your thought process:
- How many tons of GHG are reduced by each unit?
- How many units sold from now to 2050
- Are emissions reduced in multiple ways?
https://lnkd.in/ggfhMJk8
#founders #climatetech #emissions
