GRAND RAPIDS ? A study done by the University of Michigan that shows entrepreneurs and investors are not on the same page when it comes to what they want from each other was the subject of a panel discussion on March 21 hosted by Start-Up Central.
Nearly 40 people attended a panel discussion that featured Angel Investors Jack Aherns of TGap Ventures, John Doerer from Polestar Capital and Jody Vanderwel from the Grand Angels.
The presentation and discussion focused on the principle disconnects between entrepreneurs and investors, said Start-Up Central Co-Founder David Brenner.
?As the U of M study showed most entrepreneurs are merely seeking investor capital to develop their business, with secondary interest in enticing qualified people to join their team, either as employees or advisors,?? Brenner said. ?Investors, on the other hand, demand that entrepreneurs have a solid plan for their business that clearly describes the market problem and opportunity and how their product or service represents the right choice to address the problem and opportunity.
?Investors also demand a credible go-to-market strategy and plan that reflects how the market behaves in selecting a product or service by leveraging the skill set or experience of a team member or one or more experts on their advisory panel,?? Brenner said. ?In other words they understand how this market operates and can bring the right skills to bear to ensure this new product or service can access the customers in this market.?
Brenner said the meeting attracted nearly 40 participants, including 15 from Andrew DeVries marketing class at Calvin College.
