Getting Started

The first step should always be to think long and hard as to whether you really wish to embark on this journey!  This first step is often missed in the rush to the glamour and anticipated wealth of having your own company.  However, the reality is that most start-ups are not successful, and even those that are usually take many years of stress, uncertainty and hard work to turn into ‘overnight successes’. 

The persistent and eternally optimistic personalities that make good entrepreneurs embrace these obstacles and challenges as part of the ride.  For those still bold enough to pursue a start-up, the USC Stevens Institute has a number of Mentoring and Startup Support programs to assist you in a variety of ways.

Raising Venture Capital

The USC Stevens Institute is here to help USC faculty, students and staff to start your own company. We have numerous staff members who are experienced in creating and managing start-ups. In addition, we have staff members who are actively involved in the VC and Angel communities that can provide coaching and help you devise the best strategy to obtain the funding you need.

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Conflict of Interest

Please review USC’s Conflict of Interest Policy here, and if you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact us.

Building a Team

Building the right team is likely to most important step in creating a successful start-up. A truism in the investment community is that they would rather back a great team with a poor idea than a poor team with a great idea. 

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Non-Profit

Non-profit organizations are tax-exempt businesses that do not profit to benefit the individuals who control the organizations; instead, the profits (surplus) are allocated in the interest of the organization’s goals and missions. As such, when starting any business, non/for-profit, it is essential to have a business plan. A business plan states the goals of your organization and describes how you are going to reach that goal. A sample business plan found here can offer some insight.

Just like any other business, you need money! Donors are usually wealthy and selective individuals or corporations that will scrutinize everything before they are willing to give you any money. Donors are investors (yes!) who are not looking for a monetary return on their investment, but they are seeking a return on investment in intangible returns such as personal satisfaction and corporate image.

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