Meet Hawaii's Chief Venture Capitalist

Posted on behalf of Bill Spencer:

The new director of the Hawaii Strategic Development Corporation (HSDC), the State's venture capital organization, Karl Fooks will address members and friends of the Hawaii Venture Capital Association at its September 24, 2009 luncheon meeting. Mr. Fooks has taken on the job of building the capacity of his organization to attract capital and invest it in promising ventures. Established in 1988, HSDC has worked to attract the formation of venture capital firms, and participate as a limited partner in those firms. Returns on investment have gone back into the organization to use as future matching funds for reinvestment.

Mr. Fooks is a veteran of the finance industry and brings his expertise to HSDC replacing former director John Chock who moved on to work in the private sector. HSDC could play a role in shaping future legislation designed to stimulate venture investing and bring more money to Hawaii companies, some of which were seeded with Act 221 investments and are now struggling to find later stage financing.

"HSDC has done a lot with very little over the past 20 years," said Bill Spencer, HVCA President. "Its future will depend to a great extent on how Mr. Fooks navigates the legislative and bureaucratic waters he floats upon."

HVCA is committed to informing our members and friends about the facts and issues affecting the State's efforts to build venture capital capacity and expose opportunities it will create for entrepreneurs and investors. Do not miss this chance to meet and engage the key player in the State when it comes to venture investing.

This is expected to be a highly attended event. Please be sure to register as soon as possible.

Thursday, September 24, 2009

The Plaza Club 20th Floor

11:30am-1:30pm

$29 for HVCA, HTDC, Hawaii Angels, DualUse Council, TechHui, Bytemarks and HSTC Members, $39 non-members, $25 students.

PLEASE RESERVE EARLY.

THERE IS LIMITED SEATING AVAILABLE

FOR THIS EVENT.

Aloha attire is required by the Plaza Club.

Register at www.hvca.org or contact

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