Valuations that made sense in 2000 have been significantly reduced, forcing many “cram-down” financings that are painful for investors and management. Business models can and need to be as adept, flexible, and creative as the science that drives our industry. There are alternative ways to go public that do not involve traditional capital infusions or reverse mergers, and which can provide a short-term exit strategy for investors while allowing new technologies to flourish. Visit www.sandiego.tie.org for more information and call TiE at 858-603-2656 by 10 am Feb 22 to register in advance.