For start-ups, its the person not the idea that really counts

I’ve always believed that ideas are a dime a dozen, but what makes a start-up successful is the people behind it.  I’ll always invest in a person before an idea, and I apply that theory when evaluating companies for Shotput.

Case in point, I had the great benefit of mentoring a young entrepreneur last year.  He worked for me at Engauge and I spent a lot of time showing him what goes into running a business.  He left Engauge at the end of last year and launched a company called Promolast.  At this point his company is putting on wrestling events, allowing you to come and meet the likes of Lex Luger and Booker T (and get autographs, photos, etc).  The event is in Atlanta on June 4th and 5th – you should attend!  I’ll be there…

Now, I wouldn’t know a Booker T if it bit me on the neck.  Although judging by the pics I’ve seen of the dude, he’d probably decapitate me.  But the point is, I would invest in this company all day long.  Not because I know the industry but because I believe in Drew.  If he came to me and said he wanted to start a company that focused on print advertising, I’d probably consider investing in that.

If you want to read more about Drew you can do so in this great article that Emory (did I mention he’s an Emory alum?) wrote on him recently.

Onward and upward, Drew.