As a startup founder, you have the power to create a more equitable and inclusive business environment. This means not only choosing co-founders and employees from diverse backgrounds but also diversifying your investors in your cap table. In this article, we’ll explore why building an equitable cap table is essential for both economic and ethical reasons.
The Importance of Diversification
Diversity and inclusion are no longer just buzzwords; they’re essential components of a successful business strategy. By choosing co-founders and employees who bring different perspectives and experiences to the table, you can create a more innovative and resilient company. However, this is just the starting point.
A truly equitable cap table requires intentionality and a commitment to spreading wealth fairly among investors. This means making room for diverse investors and avoiding the "usual suspects" that often dominate startup funding rounds. By diversifying your investor base, you can create a more sustainable business model that benefits not only your company but also the broader community.
Tackling the Challenge at TechCrunch Disrupt 2023
At TechCrunch Disrupt 2023, we’re excited to feature a session called "How to Construct an Equitable Cap Table." Joining us on the Builder Stage will be Ashley Mayer, co-founder and general partner at Coalition Operators; Amanda Robson, partner at Cowboy Ventures; and Richie Serna, CEO at Finix. These experts will share their insights on issues such as:
- Making room for diverse investors in your cap table
- Landing a diverse lead investor rather than relying on the usual suspects
- Protecting early investor pro rata rights to ensure that early and diverse investors can retain their overall stake in the business
Meet Our Speakers
Ashley Mayer: Coalition Operators Co-Founder and General Partner
Prior to co-founding Coalition Operators, Ashley Mayer was VP of comms at Glossier, a New York-based beauty startup. She has also led communications as Box grew from 50 employees to an IPO.
- Experience: VP of Comms at Glossier, Communications Lead at Social Capital
- Background: Co-Founder and General Partner at Coalition Operators
Amanda Robson: Cowboy Ventures Partner
As a seed investor at Cowboy Ventures, Amanda focuses on software infrastructure investments. She’s worked with companies like Drata, Elementary Data, and SVT Robotics.
- Experience: Seed Investor at Cowboy Ventures
- Background: Co-Host of the Open Source Startup Podcast
Richie Serna: Finix CEO
Richie co-founded Finix to create the most accessible financial services ecosystem in history. Prior to Finix, he served as an engineer at Balanced and a consultant at Booz & Company.
- Experience: Engineer at Balanced, Consultant at Booz & Company
- Background: Co-Founder and CEO of Finix
Don’t Miss This Essential Conversation
The session on "How to Construct an Equitable Cap Table" is just one of the many exciting conversations taking place at TechCrunch Disrupt 2023. Join us as we explore breakthrough sectors, operations, hiring, fundraising, and more.
Breakout Sessions
- Operations: From scaling your team to optimizing your workflow
- Hiring: Strategies for finding and retaining top talent
- Fundraising: Navigating the startup funding landscape
Learn More
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By building an equitable cap table, you can create a more sustainable business model that benefits not only your company but also the broader community. Join us at TechCrunch Disrupt 2023 as we explore the latest breakthroughs in startup funding and innovation.
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Sources:
- "The Importance of Diversification" by [Author]
- "Tackling the Challenge at TechCrunch Disrupt 2023" by [Author]
