Edward Keelan - The #1 reason you won't get investment – And how to fix it

In today’s episode of ScaleX Insider, we’re thrilled to have Edward Keelan, a partner at Octopus Ventures. With a focus on B2B software and extensive experience in venture capital, Edward will discuss the #1 reason startups fail to secure investment and how to fix it. We’ll explore the journey from startup to scale-up, the challenges founders must face, and how to determine if your business is scalable. Edward will emphasise the importance of stopping the Rolls-Royce mentality and being present in the moment while highlighting the cost of greed and why a purpose-driven approach matters. Additionally, he’ll tackle the global challenge of whether businesses can grow responsibly, unlock the secrets to explosive business growth, and provide clarity on how to pitch your business effectively. Drawing from his experiences as a dyslexic entrepreneur, Edward’s insights promise to be both inspiring and actionable. Don’t miss this engaging conversation! About Edward Welcome to today’s episode, where we’re thrilled to have Edward, a distinguished partner at Octopus Ventures, one of the UK’s leading venture capital firms. Since 2008, Edward has specialised in B2B software, overseeing deal origination, execution, and portfolio management. His journey began at Rolls-Royce, but it was during his time at KorteQ that he discovered his true passion for startups, igniting his enthusiasm for entrepreneurship. Outside of his role at Octopus, Edward actively engages with the Entrepreneurship Centre at Saïd Business School and the University of Oxford, sharing his insights on early-stage investing and mentoring aspiring companies. As a dyslexic entrepreneur, Edward’s story is one of persistence and innovative thinking, demonstrating how he leverages his unique perspective to drive success. Get ready for a conversation about entrepreneurship, investment strategies, and the power of embracing one’s differences. Contact Edward LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/edward-keelan Website: octopusventures.com/team/b2b-software/edward-keelan Additional resources: Dismount the sales team merry-go-round https://octopusventures.com/guides/how-to-step-away-from-founder-led-sales/ In praise of funnel metrics https://octopusventures.com/guides/in-praise-of-funnel-metrics/ The employee headcount calculator – firing for start ups https://octopusventures.com/blog/the-employee-headcount-calculator-and-responsible-hiring-for-start-ups/   About the Host, Brendan McGurgan Brendan is a global business leader who builds profitable, scalable businesses by delivering on his strong personal belief that anything is possible. Contact Brendan McGurgan or Simple Scaling: Buy the Simple Scaling Book: Simple Scaling: 10 Proven Principles to 10x Your Business https://www.amazon.co.uk/Simple-Scali... Contact Simple Scaling: https://linktr.ee/simplescaling