Summary:

‍

Many scale-up businesses overlooked debt as a funding option, assuming (often rightly) that traditional banks didn’t understand or support companies like theirs. Historically, debt financing was only accessible to profitable businesses with significant assets to offer as security.

‍

However, the landscape had changed. Venture debt became a viable option for some companies looking to raise capital without dilution or delay an equity round until achieving a higher valuation.

‍

Longtime Helm member and founder of Funding Nav, Stephen Sacks, broke down the debt options available to scale-ups—even those without significant profitability or assets. This session provided clarity on how alternative financing solutions could fuel your next stage of growth.

‍

Stephen ran through some recent case studies that he advised on and also offered attendees feedback on their opportunity to raise debt.

Who attended?

‍

✅ Founders exploring non-dilutive funding options

✅ Businesses looking to extend their runway before an equity raise

✅ Entrepreneurs wanting to understand the evolving venture debt market

‍