I had the pleasure of interviewing the new Board Chair, Bob DeKoning, for the Oregon Entrepreneurs Network (OEN) the other day and asked him about his vision for OEN and how it can impact business growth and startup success in Oregon. Bob first and foremost made it clear that he is passionate and committed to creating a supportive atmosphere where startups can get the resources they need to thrive.
Bob is a long time Oregonian and a successful repeat CEO at four different companies over the past 16 years. I asked Bob why he got involved in OEN and what led to him ultimately becoming the Board Chair.
Bob explained:
“The reason I considered this opportunity was the fact that in this recessionary time, and with the state of the economy, I felt that there was a chance to make a difference. If we were looking for additional job growth in an environment of high unemployment, that job growth most likely would come from growth in small companies.
I couldn’t think of a better way to give back and help this economy, than to come in and help keep OEN growing, and stimulating this economy, in support of small company management. ”
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I have been talking with a couple of contacts recently who are looking at moving their bootstrapped business into the world of a funded startup. In the process of working with different VCs and angel groups, they of course get the question “How much money are you looking for?”
I came across a blog post yesterday that advocated planning for an exit strategy early and I couldn’t agree more. Martin, in this post (POST NO LONGER EXISTS), highlights two reasons why you would want to do this. First, because outside investors want to collect their return, and second, because entrepreneurs love the art of the start. I would add a third, which I feel is of paramount importance, and that is your exit strategy helps guide difficult business decisions.
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