eChai SF: Fund Raising for Startups - VCs Panel

Raising capital is one of the most crucial — and often misunderstood — parts of the startup journey. Founders face questions every day: What do VCs look for? How should you structure your pitch? When is the right time to raise, and how much is too much?

​At this eChai session, we’ll flip the perspective and explore fundraising through the lens of venture capitalists and ecosystem leaders. This is not just theory—it’s a chance to understand the inside playbook, straight from those who see hundreds of startups and deals each year.

​🎙 Featured Speakers

​🔹 Vinit Bhansali - Takshil Ventures

​3× founder and Partner at Takshil Ventures(a $30M concentrated early-stage technology investment firm), where he unpacks how early-stage venture investing is evolving in a world shaped by AI, fast followers, and rising product-led expectations.

​🔹 Fady Barsoum - Baird Augustine

​As a key voice in bridging startups with local and international ecosystems, Fady focuses on enabling founders to access resources, capital, and partnerships. He brings a broader economic and ecosystem lens, helping entrepreneurs understand how macro trends, policy, and global shifts shape investor decisions and startup opportunities.

​🔹 Jordan Wahbeh - SV Ventures Group

​Jordan Wahbeh is Managing Partner at SV Venture Group, a syndicate investing in companies that improve the human condition. SVVG backs B2B and B2B2C startups at Series A, Pre-A, and late seed with a focus on deep tech, AI, health, fintech, logistics, space, and climate. Their typical check size ranges from $150K–$500K, supporting founders building technology that shapes a better future.

​💡 What You’ll Learn

• ​How VCs assess founder–market fit, timing, and scale potential.
• ​The nuances of fundraising in today’s climate—what has changed and what hasn’t.
• ​How ecosystem partnerships and macro trends influence startup success.
• ​Practical tips for crafting pitches and investor updates that resonate.

​🌐 Why Attend?

​This event is designed for:

• ​Founders raising or planning to raise capital.
• ​Operators & builders curious about what VCs look for.
• ​Students & aspiring entrepreneurs who want to peek behind the curtain of venture investing.

​Beyond insights, you’ll connect with fellow founders, investors, and ecosystem leaders in a candid, interactive session.

Host or Publisher eChai Silicon Valley Startup Network