I have been impressed by the hard work and engagement of our board of advisors for Vestigo Ventures. I have seen those leaders step up to provide insight during due diligence activities  for start-ups. They have helped our portfolio companies gain insights and new business. They provide valued feedback to the four partners — always with a focus on getting returns for our investors.

Most importantly, they provide honest communication on what we have asked them to engage in with us. They do not try to sugar coat their points of view.

I can think of many situations where one of us in the partnership loves a startup idea and team, but one or more of our expert advisors don’t. By challenging assumptions and triggering smart discussions, value is created and insight gained.

Where our advisory board is often most helpful is in providing contacts to us or our portfolio companies. We know many VC's say their board is engaged, but we have built a model of communication and incentives that seems to enhance their value. We are amazed by how quickly they can get us to the right person at the right time.

Finally they are engaged in our events. Many were able to be at our investor event in the summer and helped shape the agenda. Most importantly, they gave us feedback after the event about what worked and what didn’t.  

On behalf of Dave, Ian and Mike, I’d like to express just how much we all appreciate the willingness of our board of advisors to help us build the right ecosystem for FinTech investing.

Mark Casady
General Partner Vestigo Ventures