Learned My Most Valuable VC Lesson From Ba Ventures
Fund: Scale Venture Partners
Posted by Deans on 2007-10-03
BA Ventures was a later stage investor, with preferred liquidation, in our company. Their partner was actively involved in our board and provided a great deal of excellent advice. I sort of considered him to be a friend. Then Microsoft changed directions and became a competitor. As things started looking dicey, the BA Venture guy stopped returning calls. When I asked him why, he replied - I've never forgotten this - (not really a quote, but accurate to the best of my recollection) I have 10 investments. In order for me to be successful, 3 have to be successful. Since it's obvious that you're not going to be successful, you're not worth my time. I'll spend my time on companies that can still win. It's nothing personal.
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