Randy Smerik, Julien Smith, Guy Rosen, Danny Boice – Startupfest 2014

The Art of the Deal

Closing a deal—whether an acquisition or a funding round—is an art. Part bluff, part matchmaking, part hubris, and part timing, it’s a rite of passage for entrepreneurs. And with nearly all startup payouts coming from acquisitions, it’s a vital skill.

Hosted by Randy Smerik—who’s sat on both sides of the table in numerous deals—this panel brings together Onavo / Facebook’s Guy Rosen, Speek’s Danny Boice and Breather’s Julien Smith to look at what makes deals happen, what kills them, and what startups can do to be sure they’re ready to act when opportunities arise.