Oxford style debate: Exit by acquisition is new norm, plan for it.

We’re launching VLAB’s Debate Series, a lively Oxford style debate, sponsored by PwC. To weigh the costs and consequences for you, your employees, and your current investors, out team of our world-class investing firms, and a leading law firm debate the proposition “Exit by acquisition is the new norm. Plan for it.”

This is for you if you are a C-level startup executive in growth stage, contemplating exit strategies. You pose questions to the debaters, You determine the outcome.

This event is invite only. If you would like to be considered or nominate someone, send that person’s name, company, and email to debates@vlab.org.

Why Attend

• Get insights and war stories from leading investors in the Valley.
• Put your questions to the debaters. Get opposing views.

Debate Chair

Stephanie Zeppa, Partner, Corporate & Securities Practice Group, Sheppard Mullin

Debate Team FOR the Motion

Tricia Salinero, Partner and Managing Director, Woodside Capital Partners

Elliott Robinson, Principal, Microsoft Ventures

Debate Team AGAINST the Motion

Kempton Dunn, Managing Director, Morgan Stanley

Jonathan MacQuitty, Venture Partner, Lightspeed Venture Partners

Agenda

• 6:00 to 6:30 PM – Social with wine, cheese and hors d’oeuvres
• 6:30 to 6:40 PM – Welcome and introductions
• 6:40 to  8:00 – Oxford style debate
  • Audience Poll
  • Opening arguments
  • Audience questions
  • Closing arguments
  • Post audience polls
• 8:00 to 9:00 – Social with wine, cheese, and hors d’oeuvres

With over 223,000 people in 157 countries, PwC (PricewaterhouseCoopers) is one of the world’s largest professional services networks. With a corporate purpose to “Build trust in society and solve important problems,” PwC is organized around 3 primary business lines: Assurance, Advisory, and Tax / Legal. PwC’s people work tirelessly to serve their clients around their most pressing issues, while also enhancing their own professional experiences and development. PwC is a VLAB Platinum sponsor.  Learn more at pwc.com.