Outsized seed rounds, neobanks and booming M&A? Well hello, 2023

VC Advice

The team explores the advice venture capitalists (VCs) offer to laid-off workers contemplating new ventures. Rebecca Bellan questions whether laid-off tech workers would want to continue in the startup world, given the volatility they've experienced 1. Mary Azevedo points out that only a small segment of laid-off workers have the means to launch a startup, despite having good ideas. She appreciates VCs sharing their perspectives but emphasizes the need for realistic and specific advice 1.

I appreciate VC's sharing their advice. It never hurts to hear their perspective because if someone wants to launch a startup, they may very well likely turn to venture capital.

--- Mary Azevedo

Natasha Mascarenhas adds that VCs should be explicit about the sectors they are interested in, as this can provide more actionable guidance for potential founders 2.

   

Starting Anew

The conversation shifts to the realistic scenarios of laid-off workers starting new ventures. Rebecca Bellan notes the existence of programs to fund companies started by laid-off tech workers but questions if they would want to continue in the same field 1. Mary Azevedo highlights that the majority of laid-off workers lack the means to launch a startup, even if they have viable ideas. Natasha Mascarenhas agrees and mentions that wealth, savings, and the desire to take a risk are key factors driving some to start their own companies 1.

I'm amazed at people wanting to take a bet on themselves after losing such a big safety net.

--- Natasha Mascarenhas

The team underscores the importance of specific and realistic advice from VCs to help these aspiring entrepreneurs navigate the challenges ahead.