Hope lies in Venture Capital

Redwood City California -- The decisions of venture capital and angel investment could be a significant factor in how long the current recession lasts worldwide according to Gary Schlossberg, vice president and senior economist for Wells Fargos, Wells Capital Management.

Speaking today at the Economic Forecast meeting of the Redwood City/San Mateo County Chamber of Commerce, Schlossberg ticked off a list of factors that will determine how long and deep the recession will go, including consumer spending, government stimulus packages and mortgage renegotiation. But he also called out the role of private investment in the form of entrepreneurial support as a key factor.

"There's a lot of money available for investment, but the channels are currently choked off." Schlossberg encouraged the businessmen and investors in the 200+-person audience to start the process of getting new businesses off the ground.

Lou Covey, CEO of Footwasher Media and an organizer of the VComm Venture Faire, said after the event, "One of the few established banking entities that is doing well in this economy is giving us a roadmap to recovery and prosperity. This is exactly the reason we chose to launch our event at this time. The financial introspection and reserve of the past two years needs to be put aside. It's time to get back to work."

IdaRose Sylvester to provide market analysis

The VComm Venture Faire team today announced that IdaRose Sylvester, former senior industry analyst at IDC, has joined as the objective analyst for presenting companies' market projections. Ms. Sylvester's specialties are High technology strategic marketing, strategic planning, industry analysis, competitive analysis, market research, and prognostication. She consults with a variety of companies in business development, partner marketing, relationship building, entrepreneurial management and leadership.

In explaining her decision to come on board with the event, Sylvester said, "New markets and entrepreneurial efforts are my passions. Connections with my network--in my company, with my clients, with new people who can help shape my view of the world--are always of interest."
Ms. Sylvester has experience in multiple markets including electronics systems and semiconductors, digital connected homes, video delivery technologies and services, green technology and alternative energy, Web 2.0 and social media.

VComm Venture Faire venue chosen

The VComm Venture Faire organizers have chosen the Seaport Conference Center in Redwood City, California as the site for the January 21 event. The Center, located in the Port of Redwood City, offers panoramic views of San Francisco Bay, high-speed internet connections, ample free parking and gourmet catering, in a flexible and intimate facility perfectly attuned to the unique concept of the Venture Faire. The conference Center is within 30 minutes of all major Bay Area airports, and probably more importantly, 15 minutes of Sand Hill Road.

EETimes points to opportunities in Europe

Today in EE Times, an article on the Venture Scorecard indicated that the UK offers significant opportunities for investment from the Silicon Valley community.