Frequently Asked Questions:

Q1. What is a venture catalyst?

Q2. Do the Great Circle venture catalysts have their own fund?

Q3. Why are emerging firms having difficulty obtaining funding?

Q4. How is Great Circle compensated for its services?

Q5. Will Great Circle take an active role in the management of my firm?

Q6. Does Great Circle take on pure consulting assignments?

Q1. What is a venture catalyst?

The term "venture catalyst" describes an individual or firm that provides interim senior-level management to emerging firms, with emphasis on strategic and operational guidance and assistance in the fund-raising process.

Q2. Do the Great Circle venture catalysts have their own fund?

Great Circle has close relationships with a variety of funding sources, but focuses its contribution on the management and direction of our clients, and securing the right funding source for each client. We believe that each client's situation is unique, requiring careful understanding and consideration of the most appropriate funding source, based upon how each source can assist the emerging firm in meeting its needs and objectives.

Q3. Why are emerging firms having difficulty obtaining funding?

Ultimately, venture investors invest in people. Capital sources constantly tell Great CIrcle that they review thousands of plans containing wonderful business ideas, but most of these efforts lack the experienced management necessary to support the six or seven figure investments also required for success in today's fast-paced marketplace.

Q4. How is Great Circle compensated for its services?

Great Circle generally provides its services on an hourly fee basis. In certain circumstances, we accept equity as partial payment, depending on the characteristics of the industry and client, and the client's controlling stockholders.

Q5. Will Great Circle take an active role in the management of my firm?

Our business model incorporates a strong belief that Great Circle cannot effectively assist a client in the fund-raising process without a full understanding of the underlying business and the management team. By taking on senior management roles, Great Circle can quickly and accurately assess the scope and direction of the business, make recommendations for the growth and development of the firm, and direct the firm to the most appropriate funding source.

Q6. Does Great Circle take on pure consulting assignments?

Great Circle provides consulting services as well as interim management to meet some of the most important needs of our clients, including: