Purpose:

To create a comprehensive, well-researched venture capital (VC) portfolio that enables a student to
track VC skills, knowledge, and company ethics globally. The portfolio aims to help the student secure
a top position at a leading VC firm by showcasing high earning potential, excellent communication
skills, emotional intelligence, and strategic thinking.

Basic Requirements for Portfolio Research:

1. Selection of Top 7 VC Firms

• Kleiner Perkins (already aware)

• Sequoia Capital

• Andreessen Horowitz

• Accel Partners

• Bessemer Venture Partners

• Lightspeed Venture Partners

• SoftBank Vision Fund

2. Key Terms and Language in VC

• Common Terms:

o Angel Investor: An individual who provides capital for a startup, usually in exchange
for convertible debt or ownership equity.

o Term Sheet: A non-binding agreement that outlines the basic terms and conditions
of an investment.

o Valuation: The process of determining the current worth of a company.

o Exit Strategy: The plan for selling the company's shares to realize a return on
investment.

o ROI (Return on Investment): A measure used to evaluate the efficiency or

profitability of an investment.

o Burn Rate: The rate at which a company is losing money.

o Runway: The amount of time a company can operate before it needs more capital.

• Language and Jargon:

o “Scaling”: Expanding the business model to grow rapidly.

o “Disruption”: Innovating in a way that significantly alters existing markets or

industries.

o “Pivot”: Changing the direction of a startup when the current product or strategy is
not working.

o “SaaS”: Software as a Service, a software distribution model.

3. Cheat Sheet for VC Terms

• Angel Investor: Early-stage investor.

• Term Sheet: Investment agreement draft.

• Valuation: Company's market worth.

• Exit Strategy: Plan to sell investment.

• ROI: Investment profit measure.

• Burn Rate: Monthly spending rate.

• Runway: Time until funds run out.

• Scaling: Rapid growth.

• Disruption: Market innovation.

• Pivot: Strategy shift.

• SaaS: Subscription-based software.

4. Comparison of Ethics and Functioning of Top 7 VC Firms

• Kleiner Perkins: Known for backing transformative companies, strong ethical standards, and
support for diverse entrepreneurs.

• Sequoia Capital: Focuses on long-term partnerships, integrity, and value creation.

• Andreessen Horowitz: Prioritizes founder-friendliness, transparency, and extensive network

support.

• Accel Partners: Emphasizes trust, collaboration, and sustainable growth.

• Bessemer Venture Partners: Values honesty, rigorous due diligence, and impactful
investments.

• Lightspeed Venture Partners: Advocates for ethical investing, innovation, and strong
governance.

• SoftBank Vision Fund: Known for large-scale investments, technological advancements, and
ethical leadership.

5. VC Landscape in India

• Overview: India has a thriving VC ecosystem with numerous firms.

• Top Indian VC Firms:

o Sequoia Capital India

o Accel India

o Nexus Venture Partners

o Kalaari Capital

o Blume Ventures
 o Chiratae Ventures

o SAIF Partners India

• Strategy: Focus on early-stage companies, provide consultancy, marketing, and branding

services.

6. Student’s Personal Goals and Strategies

• Net Worth Goal: $20 million in India.

• Plan:

o Identify and invest in promising early-stage companies.

o Provide comprehensive support in marketing, branding, and consultancy.

o Leverage high emotional intelligence and communication skills to build strong

relationships.

o Apply strategic thinking and planning for high ROI.

• Vision: Think big, explore endless possibilities, and maintain a positive mindset.

7. Mentor’s Advice

• Research VC Firms: Understand their working styles, especially in India.

• Build a Strong Portfolio: Highlight skills, knowledge, and unique value proposition.

• Boost Confidence: Be well-prepared and informed to make a lasting impression.

Final Notes

• The portfolio should be organized, concise, and impressive.

• It should reflect the student's high potential, strategic thinking, and readiness to excel in the
VC field.

• The ultimate aim is for the student to become an irresistible candidate for top VC firms and
achieve significant financial success.