Penn State Startup Week 2026

Ever wondered what venture capitalists (VCs) are really thinking when you pitch them? Join Eric Franchi, General Partner at Aperiam and Penn State alumnus, for an insider's look at the venture capital world. Eric co-founded Undertone (acquired for $180M) and has since invested in over 70 startups across marketing and ad tech as a VC.

In this candid session, you'll learn:
- How VCs evaluate startups and what makes a pitch stand out
- The real economics behind venture capital and how funds work
- Common pitching mistakes that kill deals before they start
- What happens after a VC says "yes" (and what to expect if they say "no")
- How to build relationships with investors before you need the money

Whether you're planning to raise capital or just curious about how the startup funding ecosystem works, this session will demystify venture capital and give you practical insights from someone who's been on both sides of the table. Bring your questions - Eric's approach is collaborative and straightforward, just like the Penn State community that shaped his journey.