Private Markets Discussion Panel: Access, Friction, and the Future
Hosted by: Catalyst Intro’s Stephen Michael & Robert Guthy—
Private markets power innovation, yet raising and deploying capital remains opaque, relationship-driven, and slow. This curated discussion brings together founders and investors to unpack how fundraising actually works today—from warm intros and angel groups to diligence, SAFEs, SPVs, and closing capital.
We’ll explore who gets access, why accredited status and networks matter, why strong companies still go unfunded, and how outdated market structures slow innovation. The session concludes with Catalyst’s vision for a more transparent and efficient private market infrastructure.
Discussion Panelists:
Baiwen Zheng — President, BU Venture Capital Group
Robert Guthy — CEO, Catalyst
Shahrukh Khan — Venture Fund Lawyer & Writer
Stephen Michael — CEO, Propel Earth
Mahir Laul — CEO, Velric
Audience: Founders, angels, syndicate leads, micro-VCs
Format: Candid discussion + Q&A
TIMELINE:
11:30-12:30pm - Panel
12:30pm - Networking
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