Failure: A Prelude to Success

A lot has been said and written about innovation, risk taking, and entrepreneurship.  The American capitalistic economy has always been and continues to be the hotbed of innovation and risk taking.  It is, in part, what makes the United States one of the greatest countries in the world and its economy the most productive. 

Remarks at the 2012 National Venture Capital Association Meeting

Good morning, everyone, and welcome to the NVCA 2012 Annual Meeting.  My name is Ray Rothrock, a partner at Venrock.

It’s a great pleasure for me to be here this morning and a special honor to begin my new role as Chair of the Board of Directors of this amazing organization with all of you here today.

By all measures, the past 12 months have been productive and successful for the NVCA, culminating in the passage of the JOBS Act, which will have a huge impact on our mission of fostering innovation and entrepreneur.  It’s quite possible this might be the ’34 Act of the 21^st Century.  Time will tell.

JOBS Act is the Law – Congratulations America. Let’s get back to the Business of Innovation!

Today, in the Rose Garden at the White House at about 2:40, President Obama signed into law the Jumpstart Our Business Startups (JOBS) Act.  This morning when I departed my hotel it was overcast and pretty chilly outside.  I suddenly regretted not having my overcoat.  But, as the morning past and early afternoon arrived it suddenly was a beautiful day with tulips in full bloom everywhere at the White House.  The sun was beaming overhead making it warm and soothing in the crisp spring air.  When I think about making the JOBS Act law, this day is a perfect metaphor.  From a gloomy start to a sunny and warm finish complete with exploding tulips there was a sense of optimism and renewal for American innovation.   This law makes capital formation easier, safer, and better for everyone from the smallest startup in Ithaca to the boldest tech startup in Boulder.