Ventures
We say yes to a small number of ideas, and it helps to know what we pay attention to. These are the traits we look for in an opportunity, and in the people behind it.
The opportunity
A specific problem
Someone can describe exactly what’s going wrong and who’s dealing with it. They talk about a sales floor, a delivery route, a catalog or a checkout, not a market size.
Customers within reach
We can put it in front of real customers early. If we can’t get close to the people who’d use it, we’re too far from the problem to build well.
A way to test it in the real world
We prefer ideas we can try in a working store, storefront or business before anyone is asked to trust them, because real customers, staff and inventory settle arguments quickly.
A fit with what we build
We build in commerce software, retail, marketing and media, and consumer brands, and we plan to build in real estate. Ideas outside those areas are welcome too.
A way to earn its keep
A company should be able to say who pays for it and why. We’re wary of ideas that depend on attention, buzz or a hope that someone will figure it out later.
Founders and operators
Close to the work
People who’ve stood in the showroom, answered the support email or run the delivery route. Firsthand experience of the problem counts for more than a polished pitch.
Clear-eyed about the numbers
People who can say what happened, what worked and what they still don’t know, and who let the numbers settle the argument.
Willing to be measured
Good operators want to know quickly whether something is working, and they change course without drama when it isn’t.
Builders and finishers
Someone who ships a rough version, learns from it and ships a better one will get further with us than someone who plans indefinitely.
Good partners to customers
The businesses worth building treat their customers and their own partners fairly, and we want our name next to businesses like that.
Our contribution is software, marketing and operating experience, and the conversation should start from there.
Think you fit?
None of this is a checklist, and no idea has to tick every box. If you recognize part of yourself or your idea here, tell us and say which part.
The next page explains what to send and what happens after you do.
Contact
Whether you have an opportunity, want to partner with the group or have a question, pick the form that fits and it reaches the right person.