Inside the Investor Mind, a 20Fathoms Breakfast Lab

What are venture capitalists actually looking for when they evaluate a startup? In this session, we’ll break down how investors really assess opportunities. We'll go through what signals they trust, what metrics matter at different stages, and the red flags that quietly K*ll deals. We’ll walk through the core decision framework behind a “yes,” including team strength, market timing, product differentiation, traction and retention, go-to-market strategy, and the risk investors need to believe you can reduce quickly. We’ll also touch on angel investing: why it can be one of the most rewarding ways to support startups, but also why it’s a long-term, high-risk investment that requires discipline and patience. You’ll leave with a practical fundraising checklist, a sharper pitch narrative, and a clearer understanding of how investors think.

• The VC Checklist: What Actually Gets Funded
• 5 Red Flags That Should Make Founders and Funders Pause
• Angel Investing: Smart Money or Expensive Hobby?

Patti Glaza is Executive Vice President of Venture and Managing Director of ID Ventures at Invest Detroit, where she leads early-stage venture investing and supports high-growth technology startups across the Midwest. With more than 30 years of experience in technology, venture capital, and startup leadership, Patti has held roles ranging from startup CEO and operator to venture investor and advisor. She actively mentors entrepreneurs, serves on several startup and ecosystem boards, and teaches customer discovery and commercialization through the National Science Foundation’s I-Corps program.

Breakfast Lab is a weekly event at 20Fathoms where you’ll get expert guidance to help meet your most pressing startup needs, providing access to the right tools and the right people at the right time.

These events are held in person and will be offered virtually. There is no cost to attend. Coffee and a light breakfast are provided. Walk-ins are welcome.
And if you’d like to stay and keep working, coworking at 20Fathoms is free on Thursdays for Breakfast Lab attendees.

Learn more about Breakfast Lab.

20Fathoms is the home of entrepreneurship and innovation in Northwest Michigan. Based in Traverse City and serving all of Northwest Lower Michigan, 20Fathoms is a nonprofit startup incubator and resource center for entrepreneurs and growing businesses. The organization works with entrepreneurs of all stages and industries, and specializes in working with technology-focused companies. Programs include startup education, business coaching, connections, funding, and general support.

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