Lessons Learned

1
Lessons Learned

• Soft and Not-So-Soft Landings in
  Commercialization
• Dr. Joseph H. Discenza
• CEO, SmartCrane, LLC

2
Important Lessons

• Take Small Steps
• Be Prepared for a Long Process
• Wear a Parachute
• Keep Writing SBIRs

3
Take Small Steps
Not everybody gets to found a Fast-track
company. Can your business support itself in the
next expansion phase?
4
Be Prepared for a Long Process
Even if you find investment capital right away,
it may take a long time to get the money. If you
dont find capital, is there another way to keep
your business (and your paycheck) going?
5
Wear a Parachute
Think about what happens if everything takes a
very long time. Is your current occupation
extendable? Can you work part time? Get agreement
to contract out/consult up front.
6
Keep Writing SBIRs
If SBIRs got you where you are, you must know how
to write proposals. SBIRs can provide just the
funding you need to start your business on a slow
bell. 750,000 Phase II ? 10,000,000 VC
investment ---You dont have to give it back!