In this episode of Startup Success, we're joined by Manish Patel, founding partner at Nava Ventures and self-described accidental venture capitalist. Manish shares his fascinating journey into venture capital, including the challenges and rewards of running a Series A-focused fund and his firm’s thesis-driven approach to investing.We discuss:What Manish looks for when investing in Series A startups and foundersAdvice on preparing for and raising a Series A roundThe current state of the startup ecosystem and why Manish is excited about 2025Important areas a startup founder should focus on besides the usual benchmark metrics This not-to-be-missed episode is packed with actionable advice for startup founders and thought-provoking perspectives on the art and science of venture capital.Key Moments:🔹[00:06:05-00:07:42] Nava Ventures’ Investment Philosophy🔹[00:07:42-00:09:40] Their Pain Points Driven Thesis🔹[00:09:38-00:11:12] Challenges of Fundraising🔹[00:11:12-00:12:33] Evaluating Series A Companies🔹[00:13:33-00:14:55] Venture Capital Misconceptions🔹[00:14:25-00:15:30] Founder-Investor Relationships🔹[00:15:30-00:18:24] Building In-House Capabilities🔹[00:18:32-00:18:50] All Revenue is Not Equal ----Stay connected with our host, Kate Adams, here on LinkedIn!

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“What did the council decide on item 42?” — answered with the speaker and the moment.