Log In Sign Up

I'm Decile Base, and I'm here to answer your VC questions...

Ask AI

Questions Asked:

143,299
Can you help me draft an email to Venture Partners?
Sure, here's a general template you can use: Subject: [Your Fund's Name] Venture Partner Update Dear [Venture Partner's Name], I hope this message finds you well. I wanted to provide you with an update on our fund's activities and progress. [Include updates on fundraising, investments, portfolio company news, upcoming events, or any other relevant information] Your expertise and support are greatly appreciated as we continue to grow and make strategic investments. Please feel free to share any thoughts or feedback you may have. Looking forward to our continued collaboration. Best regards, [Your Name] Remember to personalize this template to fit your specific needs and the relationship you have with your Venture Partners.
when do you distribute capital back to LPs? after each exit, or at the end of fund's lifetime?
Distributions to Limited Partners (LPs) are usually made upon exits. The specific details of distributions are typically outlined in the Fund's Limited Partnership Agreement (LPA). It's important to note that startup investments may take years before a liquidity event occurs. If an investment in a company has not had a liquidity event by the time the fund term has finished, there may be an extension period to wait for an exit or the private shares may be distributed to LPs.
how does deal warehousing work
Deal warehousing involves a fund manager making personal investments in companies before the venture capital fund is set up and reaches its first close. These investments are then transferred into the fund shortly after reaching a first close. The investments are typically transferred at cost and must follow a consistent rule, like "all seed deals in the fund thesis made in the last 12 months". The manager cannot selectively choose which deals to transfer. Warehoused investments need to be disclosed to Limited Partners (LPs) before closing and can provide an immediate markup, incentivizing LPs to invest.
How is the IRR calculated?
The Internal Rate of Return (IRR) is a standard financial measurement used for investments, based on cash flows. It's calculated by finding the discount rate that makes the net present (NPV) of all cash flows (both inflow and outflow) from a particular investment equal to zero. It's important to note that measuring IRR only makes sense after investments have exited, as a single large return can significantly influence the fund's statistics.
How do VC firms analyse unit economics?
VC firms analyze unit economics by examining the direct revenues and costs associated with a particular business model on a per unit basis. This includes looking at metrics such as Customer Acquisition Cost (CAC), Lifetime Value (LTV), Gross Margin, and the LTV/CAC ratio. These metrics help the VC firm understand the profitability of each unit (usually a customer) and the scalability of the business model. However, the specific metrics and their importance can vary depending on the industry and business model.
what is a VC Fund hurdle rate
A hurdle rate in a VC Fund is the internal rate of return that a fund must achieve before its general partners (managers) may receive a portion of the proceeds of the fund. However, hurdle rates are very uncommon in Venture Capital funds. They are more typically applied to larger Private Equity funds, usually in the 5% - 10% range. For VC funds, especially smaller ones, hurdle rates can create misaligned incentives and expectations with Limited Partners.
What's the cost of launching a limited partnership fund in delaware?
The cost of launching a limited partnership fund in Delaware can vary, but formation with a reputable law firm can range from $50,000 to $100,000 or more. Additionally, fund administration costs can range from $25,000/year to over $100,000/year depending on the complexity of the setup. These costs cover legal and administration expenses and are typically variable with traditional vendors.
How to present exits with future earnouts in dpi and tvpi calculation?
When presenting exits with future earnouts in DPI and TVPI calculations, the future earnouts should be considered as part of the unrealized value of the fund until they are actually received. Therefore, they would be included in the RVPI (Residual Value to Paid-In Capital) calculation, which contributes to the overall TVPI (Total Value to Paid-In Capital). However, they would not be included in the DPI (Distributed to Paid-In Capital) until the earnout is actually paid and distributed to the investors.
What are kickers in a venture debt transaction?
The term "kickers" in a venture debt transaction typically refers to additional incentives or benefits offered to the lender. These could include things like warrant coverage, which gives the lender the right to purchase equity in the borrowing company at a future date at a predetermined price. The specifics of these incentives can vary widely depending on the terms of the individual transaction.
Is there tax advantage of investing in startups as qualified small business?
Yes, there can be tax advantages to investing in startups classified as Qualified Small Businesses (QSBs) in the United States. Under the Qualified Small Business Stock (QSBS) rules, investors may be eligible for a federal tax exemption on capital gains from the sale of QSBS, up to a certain limit, provided the stock is held for a minimum of five years. However, these provisions are subject to change and it's recommended to consult with a tax advisor for the most current information.
can a fund based in the uk be domiciled in the us
Yes, a fund based in the UK can be domiciled in the US. The domicile of a fund refers to the jurisdiction under which the fund is legally established and regulated, and it does not have to be the same as the location of the fund's operations or management. Many fund managers choose to domicile their funds in Delaware, US due to its favorable regulatory framework, regardless of where they are physically located or operating. However, it's important to consult with a legal advisor to understand the implications and requirements of different domiciles.
what is DPI
DPI, or Distribution to Paid-In capital, is the ratio of actual returns to Limited Partners (distributions) to their paid-in capital. It's a measure used in the venture capital and private equity industry to assess the return on investment.
Please provide a mathematical example (and worked solution) which includes an investment in a startup done using a warrant?
Let's say a venture capital firm invests $1 million in a startup at a $10 million pre-money valuation The firm receives a warrant as part of the deal, allowing them to purchase additional shares at a set price in the future. The warrant covers 10% of the investment, or $100,000. If the startup's valuation increases to $20 million, the firm can exercise the warrant. They pay the original price for the additional shares, which is now half of the current market value. So, they spend $100,000 to buy shares that are now worth $200,000. The firm's total investment is now $1.1 million ($1 million initial investment + $100,000 to exercise the warrant). However, the value of their shares is $2.2 million ($2 million from the initial investment + $200,000 from the warrant). Thus, the firm has doubled their money through the use of the warrant.
What is the process you would use to apply the Valuation Policy to a portfolio of 20 startups each quarter?
To apply the Valuation Policy to a portfolio of 20 startups each quarter, you would first gather the latest financial and operational data from each startup, including recent financing rounds, revenue figures, and other key performance indicators. Then, you would apply the valuation methodology outlined in the Valuation Policy to each startup, which could involve using market comparables, discounted cash flow analysis, or other valuation techniques. After valuing each startup, you would update the portfolio's overall valuation. This process is repeated each quarter to ensure the portfolio's valuation remains accurate and up-to-date.
What should the minimum commitment in a first fund be for individuals versus family offices?
The minimum commitment for individuals in a first fund should be around **$100k**. However, this can be flexible and exceptions can be made if individuals push back hard. For family offices, the minimum commitment is typically higher, but the exact amount can vary based on the fund size and the family office's investment strategy. It's important to note that family offices often care a lot about deal flow and may be interested in opportunities to double down on some of the best deals.
What does MNF clause entitle investor to?
The Most Favored Nation (MNF) clause entitles an investor to the same terms and conditions as the most favorable terms and conditions offered to any other investor. This means that if another investor is given better terms, the investor with the MNF clause is entitled to those same terms. This clause is used to ensure fair treatment among investors.
what is the difference between ESG investing and impact investing
ESG investing and impact investing both focus on generating positive societal outcomes, but they differ in their approach and objectives. ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) investing involves integrating these factors into investment decisions to manage risk and generate sustainable, long-term returns. It doesn't necessarily target specific social or environmental outcomes. On the other hand, impact investing intentionally seeks to create positive social or environmental impact alongside financial return. It targets specific outcomes and measures the impact.
What’s a pay to play clause?
A "pay to play" clause is a provision in a venture capital contract that requires investors to participate in future funding rounds in order to maintain their original rights or avoid penalties. If an investor chooses not to participate in a subsequent funding round, they may face consequences such as losing their pro-rata rights, having their preferred stock converted to common stock, or losing other rights and privileges. This clause is designed to encourage continued financial support from investors throughout the lifecycle of a startup.
What is a SAFE?
A SAFE (Simple Agreement for Future Equity is a legal document template designed to streamline investments in early-stage companies, reducing the need for extensive legal processes and expenses. It was originally created by Adeo Ressi and popularized by YCombinator to replace convertible notes or priced rounds in early-stage investing. The current templates are maintained by YCombinator and are available on their website.
What is TAM, SAM and SOM?
**TAM**, **SAM**, and **SOM** are acronyms often used in business and marketing planning to identify the market potential of a product or service. - **TAM** stands for Total Available Market, which is the total market demand for a product or service. - **SAM** stands for Serviceable Available Market, which is the segment of the TAM targeted by your products and services which is within your geographical reach. - **SOM** stands for Serviceable Obtainable Market (or Share of Market), which is the percentage of SAM that you can realistically capture. These metrics are used to understand the potential growth and revenue of a business in a specific market.
How can I find a job in VC
Getting a job in venture capital can be challenging due to the industry's opacity and competitiveness. However, there are several ways to increase your chances: 1. Networking: Connect with people in the industry. This could be through attending industry events, joining online communities, or reaching out directly to people in VC firms. 2. Gain relevant experience: This could be through working in a startup, gaining investment experience, or developing expertise in a specific industry or technology. 3. Education: Participate in programs like VC Lab that provide training and networking opportunities. 4. Start your own firm: It's often easier to start your own VC firm than to join one at a senior level. Remember, roles in VC vary, from General Partner (GP) who makes investment decisions, to Venture Partners who provide strategic support part-time, to operational roles in larger firms. Understanding these roles can help you target your job search effectively.
are CVCs accredited investors
Corporate Venture Capital firms (CVCs) can qualify as accredited investors if they meet certain criteria. For instance, can qualify if they own investments in excess of $5 million. However, the specific criteria may vary, so it's important for each CVC to verify its status based on the regulations in its jurisdiction.
does decile work for Australian investors?
Decile Group's services are not limited to a specific geographic location. However, for specific advice about a jurisdiction, such as Australia, it's recommended to consult an experienced fund attorney in that jurisdiction. It's also important to note that any potential investors should meet the accredited investor criteria.
what is an NAV loan?
An NAV loan is a type of loan offered by banks and nonbank lenders that is designed specifically for early-stage companies with venture capital backing.
Say you have 2 offers: Offer 1: Pre-Money Value of $10 million, $5 million investment, 10% Post-Money Option Pool OR Offer 2: Pre-Money Value of $11 million, $5 million investment, 20% Post-Money Option Pool. Which is the “better” offer for the founders and can you explain why conceptually and mathematically??
The "better" offer for the founders would be Offer 1. In Offer 1, the pre-money valuation is $10 million and the post-money valuation is $15 million ($10 million pre-money + $5 million investment). The founders' equity is diluted by the investment and the option pool, but the option pool is smaller at 10%. In Offer 2, the pre-money valuation is higher at $11 million and the post-money valuation is $16 million ($11 million pre-money + $5 million investment). However, the option pool is larger at 20%, which means more dilution for the founders. Mathematically, in Offer 1, the founders' ownership is diluted to 66.67% after the investment and further diluted to 60% after accounting for the option pool. In Offer 2, the founders' ownership is diluted to 68.75% after the investment and further diluted to 55% after accounting for the option pool. Therefore, the founders retain more equity in Offer 1.
When are management fees earned?
Management fees are typically earned on an annual basis, calculated as a percentage of the committed capital in a fund. The fees start being earned from the first close of the fund. The exact timing and calculation can vary depending on the terms set out in the Limited Partnership Agreement (LPA).
what is it called when venture funds have negative returns in the beginning due to fees
The term for when venture funds have negative returns in the beginning due to fees is called the **J-Curve** effect. This phenomenon is common in venture capital and private equity funds. The J-Curve represents the typical pattern of returns for a venture capital fund, where negative returns are experienced in the early years due to investment costs and fees, followed by potential positive returns in later years as portfolio companies mature and exits are realized.
Can I offer a SAFE for a portfolio company to an LP of the fund?
Yes, you can offer a SAFE for a portfolio company to an LP of the fund. However, it's important to manage this carefully to avoid conflicts of interest. Typically, this is done through a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) and it's common to offer this opportunity to LPs for follow-on rounds if there is additional room in the round. Always ensure to maintain transparency and adhere to the terms set out in your Limited Partner Agreement.
what is the difference between participating and non-participating liquidation preference
In venture capital, **liquidation preference** determines the payout order in case of a company's exit. - **Participating Liquidation Preference**: Investors with participating preference get their initial investment back first during a liquidation event, and then also participate in the distribution of the remaining assets, effectively getting paid twice. - **Non-Participating Liquidation Preference**: Investors with non-participating preference can either get their initial investment back or participate in the distribution of the remaining assets, but not both. They usually choose whichever option gives them the higher return.
How can you convince LPs to invest in 1st close rather than wait and watch?
To convince LPs to invest in the 1st close, you can highlight the benefits such as a lower minimum check size compared to subsequent closings. You can also offer them the ability to invest in future follow-on rounds into your portfolio companies. Additionally, you can emphasize that the minimum check size will increase in the 2nd closing, providing an incentive for early investment. However, avoid name dropping other LPs as this is considered a major mistake.
Why are venture funds a good investment for LPs? Please provide quantitative answers whenever possible.
Venture funds can be a good investment for Limited Partners (LPs) due to the potential for high returns. While the majority of startups in a venture fund's portfolio may fail, a few successful investments can yield significant returns. This is due to the asymmetric upside and Pareto distribution of VC fund returns, where one successful investment can be the difference between a 10x+ return on the fund and a 2x return. However, the exact return potential can vary greatly depending on the fund's strategy and the performance of its investments.
when should i follow dispersed investment strategy and when focused one
The choice between a dispersed and focused investment strategy depends on your fund strategy. If you're aiming for a lot of shots on goal because you're investing very early, then a dispersed strategy, investing in more deals, could be a good approach. However, if you're looking for more control and deeper involvement in fewer companies, a focused strategy might be more suitable. It's important to align your capital deployment strategy with your overall fund strategy.

What do you want to learn about VC today?

General VC Questions

Ask anything about venture capital, and there will likely be an answer. Sometime there is no answer, and you may need to consult a professional. The training data is growing every day, which will help the system answer even more questions in the future.

How to tag contacts by Venture partners? Is there any field I can use? So filter contacts and activities related to those contacts by Venture Partner for reporting. Jun 16 Raise up to USD7 million in grants, debt and equity for business operations, and turn a positive EBITDA by end of 2027. The funds raised are broken down as: USD1million SAFE/Convertible debt, USD500k in long term patient debt and USD500k in grants by the end of 2025 (total USD2million) and; an additional USD3million in SAFE/Convertible debt, USD1million in grants and USD1million in debt by the end of 2027 (total USD5million). The positive EBITDA can retained by generating revenue through: Fundraising management fees Program fees for third party program implementation Advertising fees from media productions INVESTMENTS: Raise $20 million for the Muzambiringa Investment Fund to provide early-stage funding to entrepreneurs and businesses, driving economic growth and job creation broken down as: USD5 million by end of 2025 and additional USD 7.5million in 2026 and USD 7.5million by end of 2027 Please provide your investment thesis in the specified format. Investment Thesis Format: [Fund Name] is launching a [$x MM] [Stage] venture fund in [Country / City] to back [Geography] [Sector / Market Companies] [with Secret Sauce]. Jun 16 We are here to help. First, review our values, culture, and processes here (https://vcl.to/hcf). Next, review the program Handbook here (https://vcl.to/handbook) to familiarize yourself with all of the offerings. Then, use our specialty trained LLM, Decile BASE, to answer any program or venture questions here (https://www.decilehub.com/base). Lastly, write a couple of sentences about what you have accomplished to date with your fund, and what you want to accomplish next, which will help us to address your needs Jun 12

Venture Legal

Ask about anything related to venture legal, including LPAs, SAFEs, fund formation, limited operations mode, and conflicts on interest. The knowledge base incorporates expert answers to legal questions in multiple fund domiciles.

What is the Cornerstone Start Agreement? Jun 18 Can I be a GP in another fund if I already have my own fund? May 02 What is a common time period for LPs to have transferred the capital call amount after the call is made by the GP? Meaning cash is on the fund’s bank account. Mar 25

Fund Compliance

Ask about fund compliance issues, including know your customer (KYC), anti money laundering (AML), and global fund requirements. The data set has worldwide regulatory insights from experts with tips from the community.

How can effectively verify and keep track of accreditation of off-shore investors? Are there specific criteria for non-US investors to be LPs in a US fund? Mar 27 What are the reasons that lead a country to be on that list and what happen to the citizen of a blocked countries? Mar 19 How the list of Specially Designated Nationals and Blocked Persons is created? Mar 19

Fundraising

Ask about strategies and tactics for fundraising with a fund, including building momentum, creating pressure, and LP Love. The training leverages proven best practices from fundraising experts with real world guidance from peers

Gross Multiple on Invested Capital (MOIC): What assumptions underlie the projected gross MOIC, and how sensitive is the fund's performance to variations in this multiple? Mar 26 Is the PACT template in accordance with European and/or US General Solicitation laws? Mar 22 What are the specific of raising from LPs from various geographies - Europe vs US vs Asia vs Middle East vs Africa? Mar 13

Fund Economics

Ask about fund economics, including metrics, calculations, definitions, allocation strategies, and modeling practices. The inputs includes models, tactics, strategies, best practices, and practical guidance from top back office and fund modeling experts.

How is the payout of carry that GPs would receive affected by hurdle rates or preferred return agreements in the European vs American waterfall model? Mar 26 What’s the industry standard for fund recycling percentage target in Europe and in the United States? Mar 22 Do VCs set predefined IRR and TVPI targets per deal or for the whole fund before investing? Mar 11

Accounting & Taxes

Ask about fund accounting and tax issues, including filing dates, sending K1s, QSBS, and managing expenses. The knowledge base has questions answered by professionals in related fields, as well as expert guides.

Is a GP who takes salary from a Fund considered an employee, and does the GP pay regular income taxes on this compensation? Mar 31 How does the hub track uncalled vs. called capital in investor statements? Mar 27 What methodologies are used to assess fund liabilities, including committed vs. deployed capital? Mar 27

VC Lab Accelerator

Ask about the VC Lab accelerator, including program requirements, success rates, drop out rates, and program strategy. The training data includes program materials, questions from the community, and participant responses.

I need to enable fund admin access Sep 17 LP prospects missing Jul 12 Week 4 is asking to share a deal memo. The companies I am looking at right now, I have an agreement with the group for confidentiality and I can't share the memo because of it. But it is required for week4 Jan 20

Using Decile Hub

Decile Hub is the leading platform to grow and manage next generation venture capital firms. The platform of choice for over 500 VC firms

how can we use the decile limited partners? can we work directly with this funnel or do we need to copy the LPs into our own funnel? 3 days ago When I delete a company from a pipeline, will it be also deleted in other pipelines? Jun 16 If you have been added to the Quantum Edge Decile Hub by the Managing Partner but have not received an access email or permissions, please check your spam or promotions folder for any missed messages. If nothing is found, it’s possible there is a delay or an issue with your user permissions.The best course of action is to contact Decile Hub support directly for assistance. You can do this by visiting Decile Hub Support. Provide your details and mention that you were added by the MP but have not received access. The support team can verify your status and help resolve the issue promptly. Jun 13

Decile Group Inc. uses cookies for our website to function properly; some are optional and help deliver a personalized and enhanced experience. By clicking "Allow all", you consent to store cookies on your device in accordance with our cookie policy. You can reject all non-essential processing by choosing to accept only necessary cookies. To learn more check Cookie Policy