Skip Simms works with technology startup and early stage companies with a focus on preparing startups for equity fundraising. He has raised more than $26 million in grants for the original Michigan Pre-Seed Capital Fund, which invested in more than 100 Michigan startups. He is also the managing member of the for-profit Michigan Angel Fund. Prior to working for Ann Arbor SPARK, Simms was the managing general partner at the Ralph Wilson Equity Fund.
WHAT DID YOU LEARN THROUGH THE COVID-19 EXPERIENCE?
Despite all the bad things that happened to our economy, there were opportunities that were created. Many smart and passionate people pivoted and took advantage of those opportunities, in a good way for the common good.
HOW DID YOU PIVOT YOUR OPERATIONS TO ACCOUNT FOR THE VIRUS?
We were expecting to have to make changes but didn’t. Entrepreneurs did what entrepreneurs do, adapted and took their challenges head on. Investors stood up to support them.
GOING FORWARD, HOW DO YOU PLAN TO GROW YOUR BUSINESS?
Wave the flag for the need to support entrepreneurs any way we can.
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