3.8
3.3 
3.0 
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3.1 Solid In The Storm
Fund: Advanced Technology Ventures
Posted by incog on 2008-03-14
Wes Raffel And Atv Easy To Pitch, Fast To Come To An Offer
Fund: Advanced Technology Ventures
Posted by OtherPeoplesMoney on 2008-01-07
We pitched ATV upon a recommendation from an existing investor in our firm. Wes and the team were very responsive, they moved quickly and they were very straightforward with us. Their due diligence was very complete, yet quick. They made us a great offer, and were open to negotiating. In the end, we went with another firm, but I was very impressed with Wes and the team, and would gladly do a deal with them in the future.
Wes can add a lot of value to companies in the sales and marketing side of things.
PRIVATE: Members Only (167 Characters)Wes Raffel Is A Solid Citizen
Fund: Advanced Technology Ventures
Posted by Anonymous on 2007-12-31
We pitched ATV -- very efficient process -- Wes was straight up -- and in the end while they did not do our deal -- Wes called twice to explain why they couldn't do the deal and suggested ideas to close a few minor gaps in our plan for future investor pitches. Unfortunately, he's extremely busy and as a result an associate who doesn't know our space did most of the diligence for Wes and as a result we didn't really have a chance. That said, we had a fast no
PRIVATE: Members Only (235 Characters)Straightforward & Honest
Fund: Advanced Technology Ventures
Posted by Anonymous on 2007-12-06
Before we opened our mouth we were told "VCs typically invest in a lot of early stage firms that show potential, or a few late stage firms that have proven it. We're the latter, you're the first. You might be able to change our mind, but I doubt it."
We didn't change their mind, yet it was one of the best pitches we've had. They're cautious - they didn't want to touch anyone who wasn't generating revenue/breaking even in the consumer internet space. They didn't jerk us around with empty promises or probe us for info to push to a competitor. They said "when you guys are at our level for funding, get in touch", and drop us a line every now and then to check in.
PRIVATE: Members OnlyGreat Addition To Our Board
Fund: Advanced Technology Ventures
Posted by wingman on 2007-09-13
ATV invested in our company last year. I now can't imagine having a better partner and major investor. Steve Baloff has been thoughtful, level-headed and, when needed, understanding as a Board member. He's a great coach, who listens well and provides insightful feedback.
Unlike many in the VC world, the ATV partners have been trustworthy, honest and fair. Deal terms have been simple and straightforward -- and I've seen dozens of deals up close. They also wisely understand that all the shareholders, including them, benefit from a stronger, trusting relationship with management. Once they're on your team, they're committed, long-term players.
Many consumer branded VCs claim to add “keiretsu” value. But those deals rarely pan out. When it comes down to it, the most important attribute of any VC isn't the brand equity of the firm but the brand equity of the partner. Can you really trust your guy? Does he have power within his firm? Will he have the strength to protect and support your company through good times and bad times? When you pitch ATV (particularly consumer), make sure Baloff’s in the room.
I highly recommend them if they're interested in your deal.
PRIVATE: Members OnlyVISIT:
President And Ceo, Alfalight
Fund: Advanced Technology Ventures
Posted by mwarrior on 2007-09-10
ATV has been a superb partner for us at Alfalight, as we turned the company around post the telecom bust. Specifically, Steve Baloff (GP), Ed Birss (Venture Partner) have helped us in market penetration and market analysis. I would encourage entrepreneurs to seek out ATV if they are looking for a balanced and supportive VC to help them grow their businesses.
PRIVATE: Members Only (40 Characters)Solid Business Partner
Fund: Advanced Technology Ventures
Posted by jbjohnson on 2007-09-04
I joined an ATV funded company 7 years into the company’s life. It was low on cash and had never made a profit. After 4 series of funding, no new funding was on the horizon. Steve Baloff had just joined the board taking over for another ATV Partner. Steve was instrumental in driving the board to make a leadership change which is when I joined the company. 3 years later, the company is growing, profitable and has been positive cash flow every quarter. I have found Steve to be outstanding business partner. He’s a great coach with a very solid sales and business background. He has the ability to sell ideas and, yet, is open and willing to listen. Steve’s connections have been extremely valuable. When Steve points me to a resource, it’s the best in the world. His network is tried and true.
PRIVATE: Members Only2nd Time Around With Atv And Steve Baloff
Fund: Advanced Technology Ventures
Posted by thermocline on 2007-08-27
I have taken funding from ATV at two companies. At my last company ATV invested in our B round. We pitched to Steve Baloff who after the funding became a valuable member of our board. When we met with ATV we had already received several favorable series B offers from like or larger VC firms. With other deals on the table we were in a position to choose who we would take money from and we choose ATV after getting to know Steve and the team at ATV. The whole process from first pitch through negotiation and the closing of the round took just over two weeks. Key to our decision was that we trusted Steve’s experience and judgment during the negotiations and we felt that he would help the company grow to the next level. I’m glad to say the trust turned out to be well deserved and about a year later the company returned nicely for us and for ATV when we were acquired during an unsolicited bidding war. My current company has taken series A and B funding from ATV and I again have Steve as a key board member. Not only do I highly trust and respect Steve’s business judgment but the rest of the company and board do as well. Having had Steve on two different boards I wouldn’t hesitate to take funding from ATV again.
PRIVATE: Members OnlyExcellent Firm
Fund: Advanced Technology Ventures
Posted by pmelampy on 2007-08-15
ATV has been an excellent partner and investor in our company. They bolding invested in our company during the dark days after the market collapse. They clearly understood our value proposition, and the quality of our team. Working with ATV is a joy.
PRIVATE: Members Only (153 Characters)