Archived Meeting

Coming to a Crossroads:
When to Find a Strategic Partner

Main Speaker

Richard Munkelwitz Principal, Crossroads Ventures Managing Director, O'Conor, Wright Wyman, Inc. Emerging companies, particularly technology companies, need significant resources to grow and succeed. In many cases, the focus of the company is on the development of core products and technologies - not necessarily on the commercialization of these technologies. While venture financing can provide resources for growth, often times finding a strategic partner can be a more efficient way of preserving equity or rapidly penetrating markets. Mr. Munkelwitz has extensive experience in financial advisory services to technology corporations. He will discuss three real-life, successful strategic partnerships: the start-up, the spin-off and the intermediary. Learn about the potential pitfalls in working with larger organizations and how acquisition by a strategic partner can be an exit strategy.

Hot Potato Concepts creates convenient, healthy, great-tasting meal solutions for busy working professionals. The company's product line, Market Stand Family Meal Kits, features individual packages of ingredients that are combined and cooked to create a family-style entree in 20 minutes or less. Market Stand was launched in March 2004 and is currently available in over 40 retail and corporate locations throughout Vermont and New Hampshire.

Spencer Newman, founder and CEO of Hot Potato Concepts, was formerly CEO of Adventurous Traveler and Director of the TastyGram division of Vermont Teddy Bear.