• Thursday, February 2, 2006

Angels and venture capitalists play key roles in the entrepreneurial process that takes companies from start-up to exit, yet they have different motives, objectives, and methods. In a region where access to capital for entrepreneurs is hotly debated, one issue that must be examined is how the different players in the funding process can work together to achieve greater success for all parties.

Join us for a lively panel discussion in which experienced angels and VCs will explain how their respective "industries" operate, share their experiences working with each other, and explore how they can build a more efficient working relationship. A recent survey of angels and VCs will serve as a backdrop for the dialogue, which will be augmented by a "town hall" discussion with the audience. Attendees will include leaders from the angel and VC communities, active investors, and advocates from the entrepreneurial community in Illinois.

Topics:

• Interests, goals, and approaches of each party
• Experiences working together on deals
• Opportunities for increased collaboration
• Best practices and lessons learned from other regions
• Recommendations to improve entrepreneurial climate in Illinois

Panelists:

• John Banta - IllinoisVENTURES, LLC
• Tom Churchwell - ARCH Development Partners, LLC
• Dennis Serio - llinois Business & Investor Forum

Presented by the Coleman Entrepreneurship Center at DePaul University, and the Golder Center for Private Equity and Entrepreneurial Finance at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Sponsored by the Illinois Venture Capital Association