The document discusses how venture capital is not strictly limited to the wealthy and there are now more opportunities than ever for average investors to participate. New regulatory changes allow any investor to invest regardless of income or net worth. Crowdfunding platforms give modest investors opportunities to invest in startups. Sites like AngelList and OurCrowd also allow average investors access to VC funds and deals alongside billionaire investors. With the many new products developed and fortunes made through VC, now is a good time for the public to get involved through these various new investment opportunities.

1. Not All VCs Are Created Rich
L A R R Y S C H E I N F E L D

2. When we think of venture
capitalists...
... we typically think of well-heeled entrepreneurs who have already made their
fortunes sliding directly into the role of General Partner. Or we think of very
wealthy people starting funds on their own. Of all the myths around venture
capital, the most persistent is that it’s a game strictly for the rich. But there are
ways for those with more modest bank accounts to get in on the action. Not all
routes are easy, but some are simpler than others.

3. If it’s a job you’re seeking, you can cross your fingers and hope to land an entry-level position and work your way
up, but we all know that analyst/associate jobs at these firms are few and far between. A more promising avenue
is to get involved in the entrepreneurial community, establish solid relationships with key people, and begin
connecting those people.

4. Another way is to become an
investor.
This is easier to do than ever before, given the
increasing democratization of the industry. US
regulatory changes implemented in 2017 now
allow any investor, regardless of income or net
worth, to join the venture capital sphere. This
move is already revolutionizing the industry
and introducing new players on a near-daily
basis.

5. Crowdfunding
Kickstarter, Indiegogo, and 99 Funding
allow those of modest means to invest
in ideas or companies around the world.
Understandably, the public wants in on
future successes like Uber and Airbnb,
just keep in mind that such
opportunities should be thoroughly
vetted, as the companies running these
campaigns have often been passed over
by career venture capitalists. You might
find a diamond, but be aware it’s
possible to end up in the rough.

6. AngelList offers access to syndicates, or VC funds created to make a single
investment and led by experienced investors who have already done the
research. More traditionally based platforms like TSX Venture Exchange
pairs early-stage, profitable companies with public venture capital from a
variety of sources, backed by the reputability of a major public stock
exchange.

7. There are plenty of firms out there scrambling to put together innovative new
products just waiting for your review. Blockchain Capital is creating a new fund
for everyday investors looking to support emerging blockchain technologies.
OurCrowd, a hybrid of angel investing and venture capital, allows “average joe”
investors to commit alongside billionaires and get the same deal price and
equity.

8. If you’ve ever dreamed of investing
in venture capital, now is the time.
With all the fortunes made and
world-changing products developed
through the VC process, there are
more opportunities than ever that
have arisen to meet growing public
interest. As always, take every
pitch with a grain of salt, and do
your homework. But once you’re
ready to take that first step, an
entire world of opportunity is at
hand. The marketplace is more open
than ever, so don’t be afraid!

9. Thank You!
L A R R Y S C H E I N F E L D V C . C O M