Fit-for-Purpose Funding

Designing Funds That Work for Investors, ESOs and Entrepreneurs


Thursday, July 16, 2026
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM (EDT)
Join Us Virtually
* Registration open until 7/16/26 at 11:59 AM (EDT)
Register Now
* Registration open until 7/16/26 at 11:59 AM (EDT)
Category: Training

IS YOUR ESO TEACHING THE CAPITAL READINESS MYTH?

Venture conversations often focus on making entrepreneurs “investment ready.” But the highest returns happen when investor motivations, fund structures, and founder needs are intentionally aligned — not forced into a one‑size‑fits‑all model.


Hosted by Dr. Angelique Johnson and featuring Alden Zecha (SideCar Angels) and Dave Christopher (AMPED), this live episode explores how angel investors, ESOs, and ecosystem leaders can design fit‑for‑purpose investment vehicles that match real‑world goals: wealth creation, community impact, regional growth, founder access, and long‑term economic mobility.

In this one‑hour live podcast seminar, we’ll explore:

  • Different investor motivation types and how they shape fund design

  • What fit‑for‑purpose funding looks like in practice

  • Practical steps for designing aligned investment vehicles that activate local capital and attract the right investors

This conversation challenges the traditional “prepare founders for existing funds” mindset — and instead explores how ESOs and angel groups can create the funds their communities actually need.

Register Now

Who should join

Angel investors, aspiring fund creators, ESOs, ecosystem builders, community foundations, CDFIs, banks, and mission‑driven organizations designing new capital pathways.

We’ll close with a live audience Q&A to surface real‑world fund design challenges, capital activation opportunities, and practical strategies for launching fit‑for‑purpose investment vehicles.

WHY THIS CONVERSATION MATTERS

Not every investor wants the same return.

Not every entrepreneur needs the same capital.

The future of capital access may depend less on preparing entrepreneurs to fit existing funds and more on designing funds that fit the goals of investors, communities, and founders.

The good news is that ESOs, angel groups, and ecosystem leaders have the opportunity to create those vehicles.

It starts with rethinking fund design, activating local capital, and building investment opportunities that are truly fit for purpose.

* Registration open until 7/16/26 at 11:59 AM (EDT)
Register Now
* Registration open until 7/16/26 at 11:59 AM (EDT)

Creative Capital Table – Episode #3

For More Information:

Angelique Johnson

Angelique Johnson

Director of Training, International Business Innovation Association

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