The Twenty Minute VC (20VC): Venture Capital | Startup Funding | The Pitch 20VC: Scaling to $2BN AUM in 3 years, Fundraising Lessons and Tactics from 2,500 LP Meetings & What it Takes to Build a Firm That Stands the Test of Time with Harley Miller, Co-Founder and Managing Partner @ Left Lane Capital
May 2, 2022
Harley Miller, Co-founder and Managing Partner at Left Lane Capital, discusses his impressive journey in venture capital, having closed a new fund raising their assets to over $2 billion. He shares invaluable lessons from his 2,500 LP meetings on effective fundraising strategies. Harley emphasizes the importance of conviction in investment decisions and navigating consumer pricing sensitivity. He also touches on balancing professional ambitions with family life, along with the dynamics of co-founder relationships in the high-stakes world of venture.
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Unconventional Path to Venture
- Harley Miller's path to venture capital began unconventionally, starting with selling candy on the bus as a child and other entrepreneurial ventures.
- He landed a job at Insight Partners despite limited tech knowledge, finding his passion in connecting with entrepreneurs.
Fundraising Advice
- When fundraising, timing is crucial, so don't take rejection personally.
- Treat fundraising like a sales pipeline; it's a numbers game requiring persistence and a refined pitch.
Exceptions to the Rule
- While sticking to the process is important for emerging managers, exceptions can be made for truly unique opportunities.
- However, managers must exercise caution as failure in these exceptions can be doubly damaging.