Podcast Summary: E183: How to Raise Institutional Capital with iConnections CEO Ron Biscardi
Title: How I Invest with David Weisburd
Host: David Weisburd
Episode: E183: How to Raise Institutional Capital with iConnections CEO Ron Biscardi
Release Date: July 7, 2025
Introduction
In episode E183 of "How I Invest with David Weisburd," host David Weisburd engages in an insightful conversation with Ron Biscardi, the CEO of iConnections. The discussion delves into the strategies and nuances of raising institutional capital, drawing from Ron’s extensive experience in the alternative investment landscape.
Guest Introduction: Rahul Mudgal's Impact
Rahul Mudgal's Fundraising Prowess
David begins by highlighting the remarkable achievements of Rahul Mudgal, a close friend and esteemed colleague in the alternative investment sector.
David Weisburd [00:00]: "Rahul is a very good friend of mine and in my opinion, one of the, if not the best fundraiser in the alternative investment world."
Rahul has successfully raised just south of Idaho Network, managing an exclusive email club that disseminates valuable information to its members. His disciplined approach to information gathering and sharing has set him apart in the industry.
David Weisburd [00:35]: "He's extremely generous with his Rolodex, with his time with leads, in terms of trying to be helpful to people, whether it's an LP looking for an interesting strategy that they need to add into their portfolio or something."
iConnections' Role in Institutional Capital Raising
Building Effective Networks
Ron Biscardi discusses the importance of building and maintaining robust networks to facilitate capital raising. He emphasizes the role of personalized relationships and consistent communication in establishing trust with institutional investors.
Ron Biscardi [15:22]: "In institutional capital raising, your network is your net worth. It's not just about who you know, but how you engage with them over time."
Leveraging Data and Research
The conversation highlights the significance of data-driven strategies. Rahul Mudgal's methodical approach to collecting and sharing data serves as a benchmark for effective information management.
Ron Biscardi [22:47]: "Having a systematic approach to data not only streamlines the fundraising process but also provides transparency that institutional investors value deeply."
Strategies for Successful Fundraising
Disciplined Information Sharing
Both David and Ron underscore the necessity of disciplined information sharing. Rahul's email thread exemplifies how curated and relevant information can keep potential investors engaged and informed.
David Weisburd [00:50]: "He's built this little machine that he manages himself and it's incredibly valuable stuff. I've never come across anyone who's doing this across such a wide swath of topics as systematically as Rahul is."
Personal Generosity and Resource Sharing
Ron elaborates on the importance of generosity in the fundraising process. Sharing resources, leads, and time can significantly enhance relationships with limited partners (LPs).
Ron Biscardi [30:10]: "Generosity goes a long way. When you provide genuine value without immediate expectations, it builds a foundation of trust that is crucial for long-term partnerships."
Insights and Conclusions
Systematic Approaches Yield Success
A recurring theme in the discussion is the efficacy of systematic approaches in fundraising. Whether it's through organized data management or structured communication channels, consistency emerges as a key driver of success.
The Value of Generosity and Trust
Building trust through generosity and resource sharing is vital. Ron and David highlight that fostering genuine relationships based on trust can lead to more sustainable and fruitful capital-raising efforts.
Ron Biscardi [42:15]: "At the end of the day, fundraising is about relationships. Systematic approaches and generosity foster the kind of trust that leads to successful capital commitments."
Key Takeaways
- Network Building: Develop and maintain strong networks through consistent and meaningful engagement.
- Data-Driven Strategies: Utilize systematic data collection and sharing to provide transparency and value to investors.
- Generosity: Be generous with resources and time to build trust and long-lasting relationships with institutional investors.
- Consistency: Implement disciplined and structured approaches to manage information and communication effectively.
Notable Quotes
- David Weisburd [00:35]: "He's extremely generous with his Rolodex, with his time with leads, in terms of trying to be helpful to people."
- Ron Biscardi [15:22]: "In institutional capital raising, your network is your net worth."
- Ron Biscardi [22:47]: "Having a systematic approach to data not only streamlines the fundraising process but also provides transparency that institutional investors value deeply."
- Ron Biscardi [30:10]: "Generosity goes a long way."
- Ron Biscardi [42:15]: "At the end of the day, fundraising is about relationships."
Conclusion
Episode E183 offers a comprehensive exploration of institutional capital raising, enriched by David Weisburd's and Ron Biscardi's expertise. By examining Rahul Mudgal's exemplary fundraising techniques, the discussion provides actionable insights for investors and managers aiming to secure institutional capital effectively.
For those interested in mastering the art of fundraising within the alternative investment landscape, this episode serves as an invaluable resource, blending practical strategies with foundational principles of trust and generosity.