Advanced Technology Ventures
Situation at Engagement
In addition to supporting its portfolio companies financially, bi-coastal venture capital firm Advanced Technology Ventures looks for other ways to add value. In order to show some value beyond financing, Sparkpr recommended that ATV conduct a CEO Summit and coordinated the firm’s first-ever such event for the IT portfolio company CEOs.
Sparkpr Strategy
- Include a combination of well-known guest speakers and a panel comprised of portfolio company CEOs to encourage interaction
- Provide unstructured networking time so the CEOs can develop relationships, share stories and learn from each other
- Provide an additional outlet for portfolio company CEOs to interact with their investment team
Challenges
- Find a location that is easily accessible, yet far enough away so attendees can truly escape work and focus on the event
- Identify topics and develop an agenda that is appealing to CEOs from both early- and late-stage companies
Results
- The location chosen was a luxurious golf resort 30 minutes south of San Jose, CA and the setting was picturesque. Attendees unanimously approved of the location, with some staying on through the weekend rather than immediately returning home
- Seventeen CEOs attended the event and, according to a survey conducted afterwards, found it extremely valuable and requested ATV host CEO Summits on an annual basis
- The speakers and interactive panel format were given high marks by the attendees, who enjoyed the topics, combination of outside resources and a panel of CEOs
- ATV also found the event extremely worthwhile and plans to work with Sparkpr on additional CEO Summits in the future
