Issue link: http://endeavor.uberflip.com/i/772917
page 39 Top Diamond Key Findings • Diamonds deemed "too early" can become our top performers. Focus instead on entrepreneur's technical capabilities, whether there is a BIG idea here, and the ability to accelerate quickly. • But be sure to distinguish "real" Diamonds from "fake ones" (i.e., non-tech models labeled "diamond" simply due to small revenues, or candidates lacking skills to execute) • Over-emphasis on "passion" without supporting technical capabilities; • Concerns about "arrogance" as a red flag when entrepreneur does have strong capabilities (i.e. these entrepreneurs can be coached! • Does this company bring real innovation (e.g. new to the world or new to market)? Is this a game-changing or disruptive idea that will appeal to investors and lead to an exit? Might this be a potential "home-run" that we will regret missing? • If business model is early/unproven, is there evidence of traction (e.g., with investors, users and/or clients)? • Is this entrepreneur so compelling that you are willing to bet on him/her? Does this entrepreneur have the technical capabilities to achieve his/her vision? • Can this company grow revenue at least 75% p.a. over the next 3 years (5x current size)? Ideally CAGR rate would be >100% given still early growth trajectory. Selection blind spots Success benchmark and key acid test questions Key Takeaways and Acid Test Questions for: DIAMOND