Cockroaches vs. Unicorns
Startups Need to Change Their Cultures in Cockroach Era
Unlike mythical unicorns, cockroaches don’t require palatial offices, onsite chefs, and playgrounds consisting of pool tables and arcade games.
June 9, 2016What Do You Call a Canadian Unicorn?
A narwhal. While this medium-sized, carnivorous whale – distinguished by its single tusk – is an actual creature as opposed to a mythical one, try to find someone who’s seen a narwhal in the flesh. The animal's scarcity makes it an appropriate metaphor.
May 12, 2016Cockroaches Rise, Unicorns Fall as Venture Capital Plays Moneyball
Now that sobriety has set in, the tech world sees in hindsight how a nearly indestructible creature, able to live on dust, would be more attractive to investors than something that doesn’t exist – like profits among some the most well-known tech plays of the past few years. Think Pinterest, Yelp, etc.
May 3, 2016Toronto is a Cockroach Nest
Toronto distinguishes itself as Canada’s financial center, the fourth-largest metropolis in North America, and its namesake university ranks in the world’s top-20. Toronto is also one of the most ethnically diverse cities in the world, a metric that McKinsey & Co. says supports corporate success. So where are the Toronto-bred unicorns?
May 1, 2016Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Funding section cover?
Venture capital markets, angel investing, how investors make decisions, and practical guides on pitching and raising money.
Is the advice specific to Canadian startups?
Most guides apply anywhere. Where it matters, such as government programs, tax credits or securities rules, we note how things work in Canada.
Where can I estimate dilution from a round?
Use the Valuation & Dilution Calculator or the SAFE & Convertible Note Calculator in the Tools section.
What is the Cockroaches vs. Unicorns series?
A 2016 TechPortfolio series on capital-efficient startups that grow on modest funding, compared with companies that raise large rounds at high valuations.
Does TechPortfolio give investment advice?
No. Articles and tools are for information and planning. Speak to a qualified advisor before making investment or financing decisions.