FAQs

So, what buildings have you designed?

We are not architects in the truest sense of the word. We are "venture" architects. We architect early and growth stage businesses. If you are an engineer or have CAD experience, please refrain from sending us your resume. And no Hank, we are not changing our name!

How do I get started?

We want to hear your business story. If you already have a business plan, we suggest that you go under the microscope and start with our Business Plan Inspection. If your plan is in your head, then an initial consultation is the best place to begin. If you are seeking other services, an initial consultation is still the way to get started. We charge a fee for the inspection or consultation. As one happy client chirped, "The best $250 I've spent since I finished paying my divorce attorney."

How long is a typical engagement?

Typical engagements run from 1-6 months depending on the deliverables and the availability of your team to answer questions, make decisions and provide feedback. We don't believe in consultants that attach themselves to your ankle and hang on for life. Rather, we believe that entrepreneurs need compact, action-oriented engagements. Our process is designed to drive fast toward the goals that we establish together.

Do you specialize in any particular industries?

We are industry agnostic. Our specialty is not in a single industry, but rather in understanding what investors need to know to make an investment decision. We wear the investor's hat and poke and probe your business without bias.

What size companies do you work with?

Over the past 14 years, we have worked with businesses of all sizes. However, the majority of our clients are typically seeking $1 - $20 million in investment capital. Some entrepreneurs approach us with even less than an idea on a napkin, while others have established businesses that need follow-on rounds of investment capital. Approximately 50% of our clients are pure start-ups while the other 50% are generating revenue and want to accelerate their growth.

Do you make introductions to investors?

Yes, but not all the time. We are careful and selective. We don't want to give you false hope or waste investors' time. If we don't know the right folks, we'll let you know upfront.

Is what I tell you confidential?

Our lips are sealed. Prior to engagement, and just like venture capitalists, we do not sign confidentially agreements for each business concept that is pitched to us. We have been in business for over 14 years and wouldn't still be here if we were blabbing about our clients' companies. It's for this very reason that we're quite boring at cocktail parties.

However, if you are uber-concerned about confidentiality, we ask you not to reveal your deepest, darkest secrets upfront. Should you elect to work with us, our engagement agreement does include a comprehensive confidentially clause that pledges us to safeguard your company information. And each of our team members has signed a strict confidentially agreement with Venture Architects LLC.