Not an “entrepreneur,” a “value accumulator”
Phil Ressler of BigStage.com which offers a service that projects a realistic picture of yourself easily on pictures and video. Phil also offered a list that gave a worthwhile challenge to us all and had an example for most of them. The list was a good one so enjoy and learn.

Critical Insight: “F**K the economy: 14 timeless rules
1. I’m not an entrepreneur, I’m a value accumulator. If you’re going to take somebody’s money you need to build value for that investor.
2. Every company needs an existential argument- (why do you need to exist? Keep it short).
3. Don’t hide the big ides behind the little idea…Discussed a software firm not seeing the stronger value of it’s open architecture than of the compiler they thought was their product advantage.
4. Segregate corporate marketing from product marketing (brands create climate of acceptance for products & services) The iPhone is mediocre but desirable.
5. Market makers beat company builders (demand will ensure a company is built) Obama built a market.
6. Venture capital comes with a responsibility to accumulate value (to be successful build value).
7. Your company is the value accumulator, not your product.
8. Some businesses aren’t worth building (painful to misjudge).
9. You can’t sell what you can’t explain and communicate.
10 You can’t save your way to success, grow or die.
11. focus kills (max your community of comprehension).
12. You can’t argue your way to success (emotional appeal trumps data).
13. Its better sell a business than technology
14. Time is expensive (operate aggressively. change your circumstances today)

Do you really want VC money?
Matt Ridenour from Momentum Venture Management made the refreshing move of scraping his planned presentation in light of the makeup of the audience. “Raising money is a big waste of time and most VC’s aren’t in your circle” said Matt who has obviously seen his share of inappropriate pitches.

Some of the most honest and straightforward advice on finding the right VC came from Matt who suggested learning what the investors requirements are and only go to those who address your specifics. “Most VC’s correlate with current markets which is a mistake and they swing for the fences which means that you are not going to get their money but do you even want VC money?” said Matt explaining that it’s tough right now to build a business, acquire customers and nobody is going to risk doing something new but if you can do it and come out of this cycle you’ll dominate.

Critical Insight: “Entrepreneurs are going to build this thing whether anybody supports them or not. Ask yourself if you are the right person to run this business….if you aren’t credible, learn and meet people that can help solve this problem. Successful entrepreneurs are focused on transactions-if you don’t buy my product I can’t feed my kids” said Matt describing the desirable attitude.