What to expect
This is a lunchtime talk by Deborah Hemingway, PhD, founder and managing partner of Ecphora Capital. Ecphora Capital is hosting it with Wexford Science and Technology at the University of Maryland BioPark. The session starts from the idea that investors often pass because of their fund's math, not because of your science. It covers fund size, ownership targets, timelines and the exit a company must be able to deliver. It then turns to your first institutional raise: when to start, who to target, what to prepare and how to read a no. It closes with Maryland resources, including the BIITC tax credit and TEDCO. Attendees are encouraged to bring questions.
Who should attend
The content is aimed at founders, especially life science and biotech founders, who are preparing for or starting their first institutional round. It is also useful for anyone who wants to understand how venture funds think before going into investor meetings. If you are new to the Maryland ecosystem, it is a practical way to learn about state programs like BIITC and TEDCO.
Agenda
- 11:30 AM: Lunch (provided)
- 12:00 PM: Talk by Deborah Hemingway
- 12:45 PM: Q&A and networking
- 1:00 PM: Wrap
Venue and access
The event is in person at 4MLK, 4 N Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Baltimore, MD 21201, part of the University of Maryland BioPark. Room details are sent with your registration confirmation. No online option is listed.
How to register
Register at luma.com/elgosgw0. Registration is needed so the organizers can plan lunch and send the room details.