University Lightning Rounds: Curated 1:1 Meetings Between Research-Based Startups and Deep Tech Investors

This virtual event will be an intimate settings where Small businesses discuss their need with an industry expert for 5-10 minutes and small business owner and expert engage in brief 10-15 minute conversations (20-25 minutes total) before moving on to the next round. Lightning Round moderators give 5 minute warnings and indicate when it's time to switch.

Startup founders looking to scale their business through investment opportunities.

Attend the workshop being offered. Have a 5 minute pitch (and deck) ready to present. Research potential attendees if the list is available, practice a concise elevator pitch about your business, bring business cards, and prepare specific questions that can help identify synergies quickly.

Start with a brief introduction of who you are and what you do, quickly share your value proposition, ask relevant questions to understand the other person's needs and interests, and identify next steps.

Review your notes, send a personalized follow-up email to each person you met, reiterate key points from your conversation, and propose a plan for further discussion if applicable.

Ideally, follow up within 24-48 hours while the meeting is still fresh in both parties' minds. Timely follow-up demonstrates professionalism and interest.

Be punctual, stick to the time limits to respect all participants, listen actively, avoid dominating the conversation, and be clear and concise in your communication.

Focus on questions that quickly reveal potential synergies such as "What is your business expertise in?", "What types of business opportunities can I take advantage of as a small business?", or “Do you know of any other relevant TA providers or even customers that I should connect with?”

If you have a quick financial or legal question, hopefully the benefit is obvious answers. Other benefits are efficiently meeting multiple potential contacts in a short amount of time, quick assessment of opportunities, practice and refine your networking and pitching skills, and broaden your professional network.

The short meeting times can feel rushed, it might be difficult to make meaningful connections with everyone, and it requires strong preparation and quick thinking.

No! gener8tor’s many partners around the country and in this case OCAST, provide sponsorships to make events like this possible for SMALL BUSINESS OWNERs in order to create thriving start up ecosystems while investing in communities best and brightest!

Typically, business casual or even business professional attire is recommended. Feel free to represent your company with your company swag you might already have!