The following describes the steps in our process from application through funding.
We strongly recommend that entrepreneurs seek help from one of the many service providers in the Central Valley who counsel early stage companies.
Apply by downloading our application here.
Pre-Screen: If your application meets our investment criteria, you will be invited to submit your financials, capitalization table and CVAG Standard Pitch Deck. A pre-screen meeting will be scheduled for you to present your pitch.
Screening Committee: Upon passing pre-screen review, the Screening Chair will extend you an invitation to present your pitch to the Screening Committee. Pitches are 10 minutes in length with 10-15 minutes for Q&A. The Committee will decide whether to advance you to the bi-monthly Member’s meeting.
First Member’s Meeting: The Screening Committee Chair will present you to the CVAG membership. The members will listen to the pitch, ask questions, and vote as to whether or not to conduct due diligence. If the decision is favorable, a due diligence team will be assembled.
Due Diligence: You will be asked to meet with the Due Diligence team, answer additional questions, and submit various documents. The Due Diligence team will conduct its review, negotiate the terms of investment and prepare a report. This report will be sent to all Members for their review.
Second Members’ Meeting: The Due Diligence team will present its recommendation to the members, who will vote on whether to make the investment. The entrepreneur is not usually invited to attend this meeting, and is informed of the Fund’s decision afterwards.
Close: Assuming a favorable vote, Fund representatives will work with you to address any pre-close conditions, sign documents, and issue a check.