Posts Tagged ‘IIBN’

An Ulster fry, served in Belfast, Northern Ire...

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Lets assume for the moment that the feeding frenzy particularly on the West coast US is driving the valuations beyond the point that most Angels want to pay. Maybe that wave is even spilling over into London, so what do you do about it as an Angel to access deals that might be as you see it at a more sane level or entry point? Well I don’t have all the answers (honest) but one way might be to switch to areas because of geographical distance. But still within a less than 50 min plane ride that are not as over subscribed at present,  OK I admit it this is leading up to something that I have organised to help Northern Ireland or the “Belfast Bubble” as I like to call it. I want them to break out a little and up their engagement with angels, syndicates and maybe even early stage VCs on a more constant basis in London. On the evening of the 12th of May 2011 in the West End of London a number of players from NI will be here to mix and share experiences with a back drop of typical NI hospitality and maybe even a little Irish music. I know these early informal conversations are just a starting point to encouraging long-term relationships that will build over years, there is no hurry these things take time. Very much like London did from a base with very few role models some 5/6 years ago, when some interesting people started their Web Missions and networking drinks themes that have become common place now as the London scene has matured. So let me assure you given I have been around this world for quite a while, that I would be very surprised if all parties on the evening did not gain something from the experience even if only talking to others on the London scene. If it sounds of interest and you are an active Angel or a VC contact me for a detailed invite. (Oh and if this date does not suit there will be other London/Belfast events throughout the year so contact anyway)

All Ireland Flag

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The Irish International Business Network www.iibn.com that a group of Irish friends founded in 2007 has come a long way from the days of begging for a venue with a few nuts and crisps to take the edge off the evening. A group of some 5000+ people now spread from London where we started to New York, Dublin and Belfast is really starting to drive business. Broad-based  constituencies from banking, finance, property, construction, media, technology and retail make up a fresh diverse mix of influential players. A range of people from start-up entrepreneurs to names with several successful exits under their belts, established Chairmen and CEOs from well-known corporate names to younger up and comers just starting along the corporate career path. What unites them all is their Irish roots some first, second or third generations from the island of Ireland  both north and south. Without direct marketing and through word of mouth the outstanding reputation of how welcoming IIBN can be has spread.  How the keynote events at our diverse sponsors offices will last long in members memories for their open stance and access to decision makers, this buzz is what drives our membership. Speakers and panels made up of names from fashion, publishing, airlines, telecommunications, catering, property, finance and energy have all given their time for free to engage with IIBN. There is no better time for IIBN to make sure that the Irish entrepreneur or business person gets a crack at the deal and helps shape all Ireland’s economic recovery.