IIR FAQ: For Faculty & Researchers
1. Do I need a pitch deck or formal presentation?
Yes. Faculty/Researchers are expected to bring a current version of their pitch deck, draft slides, or commercialization narrative. These sessions are not formal pitch meetings, but having clear materials allows investors to give focused, relevant feedback.
2. Will my intellectual property be protected?
All sessions are facilitated by Yale Ventures and treated with discretion. While NDAs are not signed, we avoid sharing confidential materials without your consent and only match you with vetted investors aligned to your sector.
3. What stage should I be at?
You should have progressed beyond basic proof-of-concept. That typically means having a defined application, target market, and early commercialization plan, even if still in development.
4. What kind of feedback should I expect?
You’ll receive candid insight from investors with deep experience in your sector. Feedback often covers storytelling, go-to-market plans, business model, fundraising strategy, and traction signals.
5. Can I request a specific investor or topic?
Yes. You’re welcome to share preferences or goals. We do our best to match you with investors based on stage, domain, or known fit.
6. Is this a fundraising meeting?
No. The goal is not to raise capital. However, these conversations can lead to future interest or relationship-building that supports long-term fundraising.
IIR FAQ: For Investors
1. What’s the time commitment?
Flexible. Most investors join 1–2 curated sessions per semester. You may meet faculty/researchers one-on-one or in small groups. There is no minimum requirement.
2. Do I need to sign an NDA or formal agreement?
No. The program is intentionally low-friction. All meetings are facilitated by Yale Ventures and treated as exploratory. We ask that you respect confidentiality and founder trust.
3. Am I expected to invest?
Not at all. Your participation is purely advisory. There’s no expectation of investment, follow-up, or ongoing involvement unless you choose to engage further.
4. What types of startups will I meet?
Startups range across sectors including biotechnology, life sciences, AI/ML, sustainability, digital health, and enterprise software. All are led by Yale faculty or researchers preparing for market entry or capital strategy refinement.
5. How are meetings scheduled and run?
Yale Ventures coordinates all logistics and provides background materials in advance. Sessions are designed to be conversational and time-efficient, with a clear agenda and facilitation support.