Seeking Insights: ETA Conferences for Networking & Non-Traditional Backgrounds in Traditional Search
Hi everyone,
I'm looking for ETA conferences with significant investor attendance and a primary focus on networking over education, especially Traditional Search Fund (TSF) investors. I'm considering SEETA (UVA) and Booth-Kellogg but am open to other suggestions.
My background is non-traditional: deep domain expertise and a PhD, and no MBA. I've noticed many TSF Entrepreneurs have M7 MBAs and name-brand firm experience. This raises a few questions:
1. What are the realistic chances of raising a Traditional Search Fund with a non-traditional background? How do investors view diverse skill sets?
2. When approaching or networking with TSF investors, what materials should I come prepared with? e.g. an investment thesis or a PPM draft?
3. If I don't raise a fund in the short term, what roles or experience should I target in my next career moves to build an attractive Searcher/Entrepreneur profile?
My goal is to understand the viability of a Traditional Search Fund for folks with diverse backgrounds. My feeling is that these discussions are best had in-person at a conference, or 1:1 with investors, rather than through mass emails or web intake form submissions. I'd appreciate any insights from investors and experienced searchers.
Thanks!