Board Member Spotlight - Helen Sterling Coburn
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Board Member Spotlight - Helen Sterling Coburn
Our eighth feature in the Board Member Spotlights Series!
We will introduce one of our Board members to share a little bit more about their experience and the perspective they bring to Maine Venture Fund.
The MVF Board is made up of 11 members, 10 appointed by the Governor and one ex officio member representing DECD. Each person brings specific expertise that enables MVF to thoughtfully evaluate the best way to support Maine companies. The MVF Board is responsible for making all investment decisions.
This installment features Helen Sterling Coburn.
MVF Board member since 2020
Can you share a little bit about your professional experience?
I have been a practicing corporate and securities attorney since 2011. I started at a bigger firm in Boston, working with venture-backed companies in various stages of financing and assisting with public company transactions. Having spent the last decade at Bernstein Shur here in Maine, my day-to-day practice involves helping companies raise early- to mid-stage capital in compliance with federal and state securities laws. I also represent investors (whether individuals or private funds) as they negotiate investments in companies.
In your capacity as a lawyer, what types of initiatives and issues do you most like helping companies with?
I enjoy helping companies get through a financing from start to finish - thinking through what capital needs are, how to structure a deal, and preparing disclosure documents (i.e., documents that describe the deal terms, material information about the company, risks related to the company and the opportunity presented).
What is one of your favorite winter activities in Maine?
Skiing. Admittedly, with a 5 year old and 2 year old, over the last few years, I’ve been rediscovering the burn of the snowplow… but as we approach the end of this ski season, we now can say we have the whole family up on skis.
Can you share one thing you always consider in the diligence process for companies pursuing investment from MVF?
For all companies - budget and financial projections. Most companies underestimate what they need in the way of capital and overestimate financial performance - the question is by how much? Too big a swing can be particularly problematic, as it means management is typically tied up more than expected with shoring up finances – and therefore not as available to focus on achieving the Company’s goals for growth.
For tech companies in particular - intellectual property protections. What has the company built/acquired/licensed, and how has it made sure its rights are protected?
How do you recharge?
I’ve been trying to find small windows to recharge - particularly with the two little kids and busy work schedules. So I step out for a 10 minute walk during the day, or pick up a book for a few minutes before I go to sleep to disappear into another world.
And by getting sleep. Sleep is very important for recharging.
About Maine Venture Fund
Maine Venture Fund invests in Maine businesses that have the highest potential for growth and impact. For more information, visit maineventurefund.com.
Inquiries:
Terri Wark
Maine Venture Fund
(207) 305-0006
terri@maineventurefund.com
