Writing a Winning Business Plan

Venture capitalists know how to critique business plans. But not all VCs know where to start creating one. How can entrepreneurs build a business plan that can win VC funding? The WPI Venture Forum brings to its October 10 meeting venture capitalist Dina Routhier, Principal, Massachusetts Technology Development Corporation (MTDC), who will discuss the nuances of building a successful business plan.

Dina Routhier, Principal, MTDC

Although both traditional and winning business plans have the same sections - financials, marketing, competitive advantage and technology - successful plans are much more condensed and concise strategic plan documents. Routhier's keynote address will help entrepreneurs get their strategic plan in top shape for their next investment round, whether seed-stage or private investment in public equity (PIPE) financing. With more than 10 years' experience working with venture capital, Routhier understands emerging trends and hot new business opportunities. Her presentation will also offer critical advice to keep business plans out of VCs' "circular file" trash container.

Routhier has spent more than a decade financing and investing in technology companies. She joined MTDC in 1999, and as a Principal, spends her time evaluating new business opportunities and working closely with MTDC portfolio companies. She currently serves as a board member of SiteScape, geoVue, Polnox, and Spectra Analysis. She also manages MTDC's investments in Medelle and Tomophase.

Prior to joining MTDC, Routhier managed a $400 million portfolio of loan commitments at Fleet Bank (now Bank of America). As part of the bank's High Technology Specialty Lending Division, she prospected, structured and originated debt facilities to companies operating in the technology and biotechnology industries. She received her Bachelor of Science in Management from Boston College and her MBA from Boston University.