The Twenty Minute VC (20VC): Venture Capital | Startup Funding | The Pitch 20VC: Why Raising A Mega-Round Makes Your Life Harder Not Easier, Why Your Board Is Not Your Boss and Lessons on Successful Board Management & The Biggest Breakpoints in Company Scaling with Emmanuel Schalit, Founder & CEO @ Dashlane
Dec 6, 2019
Emmanuel Schalit, Founder and CEO of Dashlane, discusses his journey from leading large corporations to launching a startup revolutionizing online security. He shares insights on how raising excessive capital can complicate a founder's life rather than simplify it, stressing the importance of capital efficiency. Emmanuel explores the unique value VCs can bring, alongside challenges in managing board dynamics. He also emphasizes the need for diversity in tech and outlines Dashlane's ambitious plans for the future, aiming to transform user experiences in digital security.
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Train to Dashlane
- Emmanuel Schalit, Dashlane CEO, transitioned from a large corporation to a startup.
- On a train, a headhunter convinced him to join Dashlane, changing his initial 'no' to a 'yes'.
Mega-Rounds and Capital Excess
- Excess capital seeking returns is driving mega-rounds, regardless of individual concerns.
- Whether raising a large round is beneficial depends on the specific business and its life cycle stage.
Mega-Round Challenges
- Contrary to popular belief, mega-rounds increase pressure and complexity for founders.
- Higher valuations raise exit expectations, straining company culture and infrastructure.
