What are Venture Capitalists?

In this episode of The Business Gay Podcast, host Calan Breckon speaks with Founding Partner at Chasing Rainbows, Ben Stokes.

Ben is a trailblazer, a visionary in venture capital, and a dedicated champion of diversity and inclusion. As the Founding Partner of Chasing Rainbows, an early-stage investment fund, he is on a mission to amplify LGBTQ+ voices in the entrepreneurial landscape. Ben’s accolades speak volumes: he is recognized as a 40 under 40 Rising Star of Venture, an LGBTQ+ Pride Leader, and a Top 100 Investor. He is not only an investor but also a mentor, guiding underrepresented founders toward global success. From the UN General Assembly to NFP boards, his influence is felt worldwide. Ben is a driving force for change, shaping a world of radical inclusivity through Chasing Rainbows.

Watch on YouTube

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Links mentioned in this episode:

• ChasingRainbows.vc
• Book a Meeting with Ben
• Chasing Rainbows LinkedIn

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Key Takeaways for quick navigation:

• [03:37] Venture capitalists manage and deploy capital into startups for limited partners, aiming for large exits through IPOs or acquisitions.
• [08:50] Venture capital is best suited for businesses with the potential for high returns and rapid scalability, often seen in the tech industry.
• [10:56] Not all investments by Chasing Rainbows are tech-related.
• [16:30] Early-stage investments typically involve signing a safe note, and the founder may give away around 10% to 20% ownership in exchange for funding.
• [19:29] Founders should focus on achieving revenue early, making their company sustainable, and giving them negotiating power with investors for better deal terms.
• [19:56] Chasing Rainbows focuses on mentorship and creating an ecosystem playbook model to support founders beyond just providing capital.
• [20:39] Key advisors help founders build strategies, set expectations, and create KPIs to showcase their growth, making .css-j9qmi7{display:-webkit-box;display:-webkit-flex;display:-ms-flexbox;display:flex;-webkit-flex-direction:row;-ms-flex-direction:row;flex-direction:row;font-weight:700;margin-bottom:1rem;margin-top:2.8rem;width:100%;-webkit-box-pack:start;-ms-flex-pack:start;-webkit-justify-content:start;justify-content:start;padding-left:5rem;}@media only screen and (max-width: 599px){.css-j9qmi7{padding-left:0;-webkit-box-pack:center;-ms-flex-pack:center;-webkit-justify-content:center;justify-content:center;}}.css-j9qmi7 svg{fill:#27292D;}.css-j9qmi7 .eagfbvw0{-webkit-align-items:center;-webkit-box-align:center;-ms-flex-align:center;align-items:center;color:#27292D;}