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Webinar
The Inside Track to Fundraising
Join us as we sit down with seasoned investor and healthcare leader Jeff Berman for a candid, data-driven look at how investors really evaluate founders — and what separates the startups that get funded from those that don’t.
After reviewing 200+ company pitches & evaluations, Jeff has seen every version of the “next big thing.” Now he’s sharing what works, what fails, and how founders can build their fundraising advantage in one of the toughest capital markets in years.
Moderated by Leah Villegas, Co-Founder of Aquillius, this live discussion will uncover the investor mindset, highlight key founder blind spots, and preview how Big Tree’s new Start Up Academy helps founders close those critical gaps.
Reserve Your Seat Now — space is limited for this high-energy, insider conversation. Don’t miss your chance to hear how top investors think — and learn how to create your founder advantage heading into 2026.
***This webinar will be recorded***
Agenda
Prizes
- $5,000 Tax Services
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- $20k in office/lab space
- Digital Marketing and Branding Services (worth $5,000)
- $10K in office/lab space
- $25k custom UX design package from the largest femtech incubator in the US
- $5,000 Legal Services
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- Exploratory biostatistics package: 3 reports
- Membership to Mayo Clinic Innovation Exchange
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- Regulatory kit and Regulatory strategy consulting (Medical Device only)
- $5,000 Legal fees
- Two months campaign on startup program
- 3-day ticket to the upcoming 2025 RESI Conference
- Contingent Permanent Placement ($5,000 off); Retained Search services ($5,000 off)
- $5,000 of tax services
- 6 month Growth subscription and services package (worth up to $14K)
Learn from Subject Matter Experts
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Jeff Berman
Co-Founder & Managing Partner, Big Tree Innovation Fund
With a 35-year career spanning healthcare, life sciences, and digital innovation, Jeff Berman brings rare depth as both investor and operator with track record of $1.5B in returns for top tier health systems, Fortune 100 Life Science companies and innovators.
· Co-Founder & Managing Partner, Big Tree Innovation Fund — investing in, mentoring, Healthcare & Life Science start-ups across the U.S.
· Former Managing Partner, Grant Thornton National Healthcare & Life Sciences Business
· Former VP & Partner at IBM and PwC, building & managing large-scale businesses and leading global transformation programs for Fortune 100 Healthcare & Life Science clients.
· Entrepreneur & Exit Leader — founded and scaled a SaaS cloud platform acquired through M&A.
Leah Villegas, PhD
Managing Partner, Aquillius Ventures
As the Managing Partner at Aquillius Ventures, I oversee the investment strategy, portfolio management, and deal sourcing of a leading VC firm that focuses on early-stage startups in the biotech, medtech and agtech sectors. I also serve as the Vice President at the Aquillius Innovation Hub, where I manage the operations, financial planning, and business development of the firm. Additionally, I am a board member of Microtek, Inc., a microelectronic manufacturing company that provides innovative solutions for the medtech industry. I hold an MBA in Finance from the University of Colorado Denver and a certificate from VC University, where I learned the latest trends and best practices in the VC field. I am proficient in investment analysis, data analysis, and SWOT analysis, and I have a passion for finding and supporting disruptive and scalable businesses that can make a positive impact on the world. I value collaboration, diversity, innovation, and social responsibility, and I seek to work with like-minded entrepreneurs, investors, and partners.
MC/MODERATOR
STARTUP SHOWCASE
JUDGES
Judges
Sponsors
Startup Market
Catalyst Capital Symposia
Activating Startups
This monthly forum provides a unique opportunity for participants to gain valuable insights into emerging sectors and disruptive technologies that have the potential to revolutionize human health, the environment, and society.
Through engaging discussions, informative panels, and interactive workshops, aspiring and seasoned entrepreneurs and investors can learn about essential concepts, strategies, and best practices directly from industry experts.
By engaging the venture and startup ecosystem, the symposia encourages investors to be activists and empower startups with cutting-edge technology.
INVESTOR-ACTIVIST
Investing in Startups
Join the ranks of investor-activists who not only provide financial backing but also lend their expertise, networks, and influence to nurture startups, catalyzing a collective effort towards a brighter, more innovative future.
&
RESOURCES
Startups: Apply to Pitch
Pitch your startup to an audience of industry experts, colleagues, and seasoned investors to gain valuable insights and feedback, forge strategic partnerships and connections, secure vital funding for your pioneering project, and elevate your startup to the next level!
Apply to pitch at one of the upcoming symposiums.
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Connecting with Potential Customers
Sponsorship at Catalyst Capital Symposia provides a range of advantages, such as heightened brand visibility, lead generation, networking opportunities, thought leadership, and early access to emerging technologies.
To explore the ways in which your company can benefit from sponsoring our event, reach out to us for more information.
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