Applications for Cohort 1 are open! Deadline is October 31, 2015!
Here are some tips for how to improve your likelihood of being accepted into the Capria Accelerator program.
Tip 1: Apply as early as you can
Our applications are accepted on a rolling basis, so the earlier you submit, the sooner we will evaluate you for the program. Remember: there are a very limited number of acceptances to each cohort and when they’re filled, they’re gone.
Tip 2: Do your homework
We have provided you with information about our program, philosophy and team on the Capria website. Take some time to research us. Starting a fund is a serious commitment, so you should be sure that we are the type or people you want to work with for the long term. And think hard about how we will perceive you, based on what we’ve written on this site.
Tip 3: Draft your responses
When you select “Get Application” on the Capria website, you will be sent an offline version of the application. Use this to draft your responses to the longer questions at your convenience. Take time to review your responses and share with your team members and advisors to ensure that you present yourself in the best possible manner.
Tip 4: Make sure your application is complete
We are expecting a large number of applicants for a cohort of up to five fund managers only. Please ensure that you have provided us with all the information that we requested so we can make an informed decision about whether you are the best fit for Capria.
Tip 5: Be honest
Some of you will have years of investing experience. Others will have a deep understanding of a particular sector or geography. While we are looking for well rounded candidates, don’t feel pressured to embellish your profile. Just tell us what your strengths are and we’ll learn through the process whether you are a good fit for our program.
Tip 6: Ask questions
We will try to be as clear as we can about our expectations, requirements and timelines throughout the application process. However, if at any point something is unclear, don’t hesitate to contact us at info [at] capria <dot> vc. We want you to have a good understanding of the process as possible in order to give you the best chance of getting accepted.
Tip 7: Fundraising is key
Fundraising is the #1 challenge for first-time fund managers. Therefore, we will be evaluating your willingness and ability to raise capital for your fund. Help us to understand the kind of investors you are targeting, why they would invest in your fund, why they would invest in you, and who are the ones who are likely to be your anchor investors.
Tip 8: Think about how we can help you
During the application process, we want to know what your major challenges are so we can best support you if you are accepted into our program. The better we understand what you hope to get out of Capria, the easier it will be for us to evaluate if we are the right program for you.
Tip 9: Think about the process from our perspective
We will be making both a significant financial and time commitment in the fund managers accepted into our program. If you were selecting prospective fund managers, what would you look for and what concerns would you have? Try to highlight characteristics you think would be important to us and address potential concerns in your application. It will save both you and us time in the process and demonstrate that you understand the investor mindset.
Tip 10: Keep working on your fund throughout the application process
We are looking to recruit resilient, financial services entrepreneurs who will create and manage successful impact venture funds. Nothing will make a better impression on our selection committee than a candidate who continues to make material progress on launching his/her fund between evaluation rounds.
