eChai SF: Fund Raising for Startups - VCs Panel
Raising capital is one of the most crucial — and often misunderstood — parts of the startup journey. Founders face questions every day: What do VCs look for? How should you structure your pitch? When is the right time to raise, and how much is too much?
At this eChai session, we’ll flip the perspective and explore fundraising through the lens of venture capitalists and ecosystem leaders. This is not just theory—it’s a chance to understand the inside playbook, straight from those who see hundreds of startups and deals each year.
🎙 Featured Speakers
🔹 Vinit Bhansali - Takshil Ventures
3× founder and Partner at Takshil Ventures(a $30M concentrated early-stage technology investment firm), where he unpacks how early-stage venture investing is evolving in a world shaped by AI, fast followers, and rising product-led expectations.
🔹 Fady Barsoum - Baird Augustine
As a key voice in bridging startups with local and international ecosystems, Fady focuses on enabling founders to access resources, capital, and partnerships. He brings a broader economic and ecosystem lens, helping entrepreneurs understand how macro trends, policy, and global shifts shape investor decisions and startup opportunities.
🔹 Jordan Wahbeh - SV Ventures Group
Jordan Wahbeh is Managing Partner at SV Venture Group, a syndicate investing in companies that improve the human condition. SVVG backs B2B and B2B2C startups at Series A, Pre-A, and late seed with a focus on deep tech, AI, health, fintech, logistics, space, and climate. Their typical check size ranges from $150K–$500K, supporting founders building technology that shapes a better future.
💡 What You’ll Learn
How VCs assess founder–market fit, timing, and scale potential.
The nuances of fundraising in today’s climate—what has changed and what hasn’t.
How ecosystem partnerships and macro trends influence startup success.
Practical tips for crafting pitches and investor updates that resonate.
🌐 Why Attend?
This event is designed for:
Founders raising or planning to raise capital.
Operators & builders curious about what VCs look for.
Students & aspiring entrepreneurs who want to peek behind the curtain of venture investing.
Beyond insights, you’ll connect with fellow founders, investors, and ecosystem leaders in a candid, interactive session.