[Hidden-tech] Seeking advice, insight, pros/cons of getting angel/VC investment

[Chris Duncan, GISmatters]

I am developing a GIS (Geographic Information Systems) consulting business 
to provide mapping, spatial analysis, data visualization, and custom 
geospatial solutions (www.gismatters.com).

We have had promising initial success developing and selling a 
process/service to that appears to have wide applicability to many types of 
business, and we've been advised to consider seeking investment from an 
angel or venture capital source to further develop and market it.  Coming 
from a 15-year stint in the "ivory tower" (geosciences), such a step is 
unfamiliar and raises many questions.

I'd love to hear from anyone who has the time and inclination to share 
their views and experiences (successful or otherwise!) of going that way, 
and perhaps answer some of my questions so I can develop a fuller 
understanding of how it works, how to do it right (or at least, how not to 
do it wrong!), and other useful insights.

I am soliciting phone calls because I think it will be easier for questions 
and answers, though I've seen many useful discussions on this list so feel 
free to contribute to the list if you think it will be more effective that 
way.  If it would be of value to the list, I'd be happy to post a summary 
of any advice and info I receive offline back to the list.

Thanks in advance!  Cheers,

Chris

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Chris Duncan
GISmatters
413-549-2052