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Alan Kraus
Supporting entrepreneurs with their funding and business strategies
Professional Background
Alan Kraus has built an impressive career over the past 18 years, focusing on deal sourcing, due diligence, and the intricate processes of obtaining funding approvals and negotiating deal terms. His tenure at Ben Franklin Technology Partners, a prominent organization dedicated to supporting seed and early-stage companies in Southeastern Pennsylvania, was marked by a steadfast commitment to balancing the organization’s need for a reasonable return with the potential for growth and job creation within funded companies.
Throughout his career, Alan meticulously oversaw more than 200 investments across over 130 companies. These companies collectively raised over $400 million in follow-on capital and achieved acquisitions surpassing $1.25 billion. With his deep understanding of the startup ecosystem, Alan’s insights into investment strategies have proven beneficial, especially as he navigates the expected growth of these companies which are yet to exit.
In addition to his investment acumen, Alan has played a pivotal role in supporting entrepreneurs by providing coaching and direct assistance to the companies post-funding. His commitment extended to serving as a Board Observer, a role that enriched his expertise in best practices for building, operating, and exiting companies successfully. His experience equips him with a wealth of knowledge that he now shares with the next generation of business leaders.
Alan currently leverages his extensive investor experience to empower CEOs and their teams in crafting and executing comprehensive business and funding strategies. His goal is to position them ideally for raising capital from suitable sources at the right times, under terms that meet their individual needs. Alan offers his services through various models, including one-time Funding Readiness Assessments, monthly retainers, and hourly project work, ensuring flexibility and tailored support for his clients.
Education and Achievements
Alan's academic foundations were established at the esteemed University of Michigan, where he obtained a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) degree with a focus on Marketing and Finance. This rigorous educational background laid the groundwork for his analytical skills and strategic thinking, which have been crucial in his career. He furthered his education at Temple University's Fox School of Business, where he pursued an MBA in Business Administration and Management, General. This combination of marketing, finance, and business management has enabled Alan to approach challenges with a well-rounded perspective.
Over the years, Alan has garnered numerous accolades and professional growth opportunities that reflect his dedication and expertise. His connection with the community is evident through his involvement in various organizations, where he has contributed his skills and knowledge as a trusted advisor and consultant.
Organizational Contribution
Alan has held numerous influential roles throughout his career, which illustrate his commitment to nurturing entrepreneurship and innovation. As a Principal Consultant at Blind Spot Strategy, LLC, he has offered valuable insights to businesses looking to refine their strategies. His experience as an Advisory Board Member at Mid-Atlantic Diamond Ventures highlights his capacity to guide emerging ventures toward success. Additionally, he served as a Business Advisor at HJ Laboratories, where he worked closely with startups to develop their business strategies.
His impactful role as Director of Investments in Information Technology at Ben Franklin Technology Partners had a profound effect on the local tech landscape. Alan was instrumental in directing funds to innovative startups, significantly supporting the growth of the regional economy. His tenure at the Temple Small Business Development Center as a Manager, Business Resources, and Consultant further reinforced his dedication to fostering the local business ecosystem by offering guidance and resources to aspiring entrepreneurs.
Beyond his direct involvement in business development and investment roles, Alan has diverse experience across various positions, such as Advertising Sales Manager at Au Courant Newsmagazine and Recruiter at Optimum Executive Search. These roles have equipped him with a multifaceted perspective on business operations and human capital, enriching his expertise in forming effective business strategies.
Alan Kraus is undoubtedly a valuable asset to any business looking to enhance its fundraising approach and overall strategy, combining years of practical experience with a deep understanding of the entrepreneurial landscape. His extensive background not only showcases his financial acumen but also underscores his commitment to fostering economic growth and innovation within Southeastern Pennsylvania.
Achievements
- Oversaw 200+ investments in 130+ Seed and Early-Stage companies.
- Helped portfolio companies raise over $400 million in follow-on capital.
- Contributed to company acquisitions exceeding $1.25 billion.
- Provided coaching and strategic guidance as a Board Observer for multiple companies.
- Developed and executed business funding strategies for various CEOs and their teams.
Goals
Alan aims to empower entrepreneurs and business leaders to foster their growth through tailored funding strategies that align with their unique business models and market conditions.
Location
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Clay offers competitive pricing in the personal CRM market. Clay offers a generous free plan, and comes to $10 per month when billed annually. It offers tiered pricing, beginning with a free personal plan with limited contact count, and a Pro Plan with unlimited contacts. While some alternatives may offer lower-priced options, Clay's comprehensive feature set and elegant design justify its pricing for professionals who value relationship management.
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