Our investment process is a collaborative effort involving the combined efforts of our investment professionals as well as the accounting and legal expertise of our business management team.
When making a decision about a new opportunity, we evaluate the idea, the technology, the markets and the people. We believe the key to successful investing is in the company's management. As part of our due diligence process, we will conduct in-depth interviews with potential customers and suppliers to evaluate the company and its product offering, and pursue reference checks on management.
In addition to seeking high projected rates of return for our investors, we negotiate deal terms that: meet the minimum hurdle rate and offer a measure of rights and influence which may exceed the ownership position; include a clear path to liquidity for investors; and, provide some downside protection.
Once an investment is made, we stay actively involved. Post investment activities may include attending board meetings, assisting with the business development of the company, lending the companies our network of relationships and follow-on financings.
We believe that a successful realization of investment opportunities requires an ongoing evaluation of potential exit strategies. This review begins early in the investment process as our professionals examine all the alternatives along with timing and the economic considerations of each strategy.