TLDR:
- A new paper published by ATEL Ventures emphasizes the need to support hard tech founders for global advancements.
- The paper highlights the importance of venture debt in funding capital-intensive startups.
A new paper released by ATEL Ventures underscores the critical role of supporting hard tech founders in driving global advancements. The paper, titled ‘Debt as Catalyst – Making Hard Tech Less Hard,’ defines hard tech as technology requiring significant breakthroughs and high barrier of entry. It emphasizes that the success of these ventures can lead to major advancements in various sectors, including health, transportation, and sustainability.
The paper discusses the challenges faced by visionary founders in accessing necessary funding for their ventures. Dean Cash, the Chairman of ATEL Capital Group, highlights the importance of backing startups that have the potential to create a lasting positive impact on society. Despite the current cautious approach in the venture capital community, Cash advocates for a more creative use of venture debt in financing capital-intensive startups.
Hard tech founders are working on solutions to address pressing global issues, such as global connectivity, healthcare advancements, industrial sustainability, food security, and transportation. The paper points out the societal benefits that can result from the success of these ventures, ranging from enhanced internet access to revolutionary medical treatments and sustainable agricultural practices.
ATEL Ventures encourages a visionary long-term approach to financing hard tech founders and emphasizes the significance of venture debt as a means to accelerate growth without diluting equity. The paper, available for free download on the ATEL Ventures website, aims to spark discussion and action in supporting hard tech ventures for a sustainable future.
