CleanTech LA Investor Series
CleanTech LA Investor Series focuses on connecting key players of the investment community with emerging cleantech companies.
CleanTech LA hosted our inaugural investor series event in partnership with Cleantech Open on June 29th, 2010. The event was catered to CleanTech community focused on linking venture capital and angel investors. With the generous economic incentives offered by the City of Los Angeles, the CleanTech LA Investor Series will serve as a vetting process to select the cream of the crop and an incubator for leading clean technology firms.
The event consisted of a well-balanced mix of speakers and perspectives – from investors and entrepreneurs to government agencies and business organizations. There were financiers seeking new investment opportunities, and entrepreneurs with burgeoning technologies looking to corral support for their business
A great example of the mix of interests was the Cleantech Open Semi-finalist fast pitch sessions. There were biofuel, transportation, water, and other cleantech products pitched to the audience. Audience members voted for their favorite semi-finalist in real time via text message. TylerCo took home the title with their fused glass tile/LED lighting technology. Their flashy presentation showcased the proprietary lit glass technology that can be used anywhere from pools to casinos. They wowed the audience with aesthetics as well as energy efficiency!
One of the highlights of the event was a panel discussion moderated by Krisztina Holly, Vice Provost at the USC Stevens Institute for Innovation. The participants included representatives from the Toronto Stock Exchange, the Angeleno Group, Pasadena Angels, and Holme Roberts & Owen. They shared their perspectives on the growing cleantech industry and the struggles and successes they have experienced in securing financing needed to bring cleantech innovations to market.
A key goal of the event was to help build a cohesive cleantech community, and there were plenty of coffee breaks to facilitate these introductions. Startups pitched investors, professional service firms found new clients, and City staff recruited cleantech firms to set up shop in Los Angeles.
Published: Monday, March 14, 2011