| Topic Name: |
How to forcast the success of an Internet Startup |
| Message Name: |
b2b startups |
| Date Posted: |
01/14/2000 |
| Message: |
I know SupplierMarket. They've raised $50 million over the past 6 months from top quality VC's: Sequoia and Battery, I think. It's difficult for new companies to break into the b2b market--read the article from Business 2.0 magazine (they have a website, www.business2.com)--but as you probably know, it's an incredibly hot investment theme right now. Given your background, you're in a great position to dig into the meat of the situation. How established is their exchange? Do they have the largest suppliers lined up to offer their catalogs, or are the buyers there? You should read up on the mechanics of b2b exchanges (also check out redherring.com) and use that knowledge to ask a lot of questions of supplierone's managment. The one good thing about b2b companies is that they don't do a lot of expensive and flashy brand marketing (like the b2c internet companies.) So the money they raise tends to last longer, and is poured into technical development. After you get comfortable with the company, I would say that it does sound like a good opportunity for you, given your background. And it sounds like a good way for you to get into the field. But always keep in mind that early stage companies are risky. If you aren't prepared for a volatile environment where you may be looking for another job within a year, then you should reconsider working at a start-up.
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