Jason Lemkin, founder of SaaStr, on investment criteria & how to maximize company growth | Summary and Q&A

TL;DR

Founders should look for startup pitches that have a strong potential to change the world and focus on unit economics to drive growth.

Key Insights

• ✋ Look for founders who are better than you, adjusted for time, as they have a higher chance of success.
• 🌍 A powerful one-slide pitch that convincingly explains how the startup is changing the world is highly effective in attracting investors.
• 🤩 Unit economics play a crucial role in the growth of SAS companies, as increasing revenue per customer and lead generation are key to accelerating growth.
• ✋ Small businesses have the potential to pay higher amounts for a product or service, indicating a higher chance for success and growth.
• 🔇 The speaker emphasizes the importance of focusing on unit economics to drive growth and accelerate success.
• 🖤 Traction alone does not guarantee success, as startups with high traction can still fail if other factors, such as founder capability, are lacking.
• 🥺 SAS founders should focus on driving more revenue out of each customer and increasing lead generation to quickly accelerate growth.

Transcript

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Questions & Answers

Q: What are the two main qualities the speaker looks for in founders?

The speaker looks for founders who are better than him, adjusted for time, and who have the potential to change the world with their startup.

Q: Why is a one-slide pitch powerful in attracting investors?

A one-slide pitch that clearly explains how the startup is changing the world and showcases its potential can captivate investors and make them more interested in the opportunity.

Q: Why are unit economics important in the growth of SAS companies?

Unit economics, such as increasing revenue per customer and generating more leads, are important in driving growth for SAS companies. It allows them to grow more quickly and accelerate their success.

Q: How can founders increase their chances of attracting larger deals?

Founders can focus on targeting small businesses that are willing to pay larger amounts, such as $20,000 a year, for their product or service. This demonstrates the potential for higher-value deals in the future.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Look for founders who are better than you, adjusted for time, as they have a higher chance of success.

• A powerful one-slide pitch that convincingly explains how the startup is changing the world is highly effective in attracting investors.

• Unit economics play a crucial role in the growth of SAS companies, as increasing revenue per customer and lead generation are key to accelerating growth.