Fundraising as a FirstGen Founder - Challenges, Mindsets and Cultural Differences to Overcome
Fundraising is never easy, especially as an immigrant or first generation founder. The immigrant experience creates incredible resourcefulness and resilience, but also comes with its own set of mindsets, cultural norms and challenges when it comes to fundraising. These can be set-backs or sometimes your biggest strength if leveraged well.
Join us for an evening conversation as we explore these unique challenges. During the panel, you'll hear from FGI founders that have successfully raised venture funding and FGI venture investors. The conversation will focus on:
Specific mindsets founders have to overcome and the strategies and tactics these founders used
Perspective from investors of what FGI founders lack compared to other founders but also what they can leverage that is unique
Input from FGI founders and investors on how to improve your chances of successfully fundraising
Agenda for the event:
6 - 6:30pm: Registration and mingling
6:30 - 6:40pm: Welcome & intro to panelists
6:40 - 7:10pm: Facilitated conversation
7:10 - 7:30pm: Open Q&A
7:30 - 8:15: Networking and drinks
You can also enjoy our complimentary food and drink!
Our Panelists
Ami Kumordzie - CEO and Founder of Sika Health. Sika Health raised a $6.2m seed round led by Forerunner Ventures. Ami is an immigrant from Ghana.
Raad Ahmed - CEO and Founder of Lawtrades. Lawtrades raised a $6m Series A, built a profitable business and recently passed $10m in ARR. Raad is first generation Bengali from New York.
Rich Mokuolu - CEO and Co-Founder of Partsimony. Partsimony went through Techstars and raised a $2m seed round led by Closed Loop Ventures. Rich is an immigrant from Nigeria.
Geri Kirilova - Partner at Laconia Capital Group. Laconia is a B2B pre-seed and seed stage focused fund in New York. Geri is an immigrant from Bulgaria.
Following the panel, you'll have the chance to connect with other immigrant founders, investors and supporters. Whether you are just starting out or are already well on your way, we hope you'll join us for the evening.
As a quick refresh, FirstGeneration is a new community model to encourage, support, train and capitalize first generation and immigrant (FGI) entrepreneurs to unleash the full immigrant economic potential.
Thank you to our friends and supporters:
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