Helping entrepreneurs outside of Silicon Valley get access to the capital and networking opportunities available to valley startups is part of our core mission here at Vator.tv.
But we're not the only ones trying to help overseas innovators.
As we told you when we posted our first interview with Ezequiel (Eze) Vidra, his VC Cafe is devoted to shining a spotlight on Israeli-based startups.
In this second part of his interview with Vator.tv contributing editor Ezra Roizen, Vidra says that cracking the U.S. market, to get at either customers or investors, can be difficult for non-U.S. entrepreneurs for several reasons, including cultural differences.
U.S. venture investors want something disruptive, says Vidra, who talked to "15 or 20" of them when he founded his first company in 2003. "You've got to think big," he says.
Another piece of advice from Vidra is "to be sincere." A young company has to manage the expectations of investors, users or customers by telling them what features are to come, then providing them, rather than over-promising what they can't deliver.
"Try to avoid words like 'revolutionary,' unless what you're doing really is," Vidra says.
Lastly, Vidra echoes what we've heard from so many entrepreneurs, that focus is critical.
"Companies that spread themselves too thin fail because they don't address a specific need. Decide what you're good at and focus on it."
