Venture Debt 101 for Early-Stage Startups

Equity is not the only way to fund growth. Venture debt can help early-stage startups extend runway, finance key initiatives, and limit dilution—if used at the right time and with the right strategy. In this 1-hour webinar, founders will learn the basics of venture debt, including how it works, when it makes sense, and what lenders evaluate. We’ll cover essential terms, compare venture debt with equity financing, and explore common use cases such as bridging between rounds, supporting working capital, and fueling growth. Participants will leave with a practical framework for assessing whether venture debt is a smart fit for their business and how to approach lender conversations with confidence. Presenters: Brian McCabe, managing director for the Mid-Atlantic and Southeast regions of Western Alliance Bank’s Innovation Banking Group, where he is responsible for overseeing the relationship management and business development efforts for his team, supporting innovation companies as their banking needs evolve from inception to IPO. Tony Padilla, vice president on the Startup Banking Team, a part of the Innovation Banking Group at Western Alliance Bank. Based in San Francisco, he serves as a trusted banking advisor to guide early-stage founders throughout their startup journey.