EP 35: From Pro-E-Gamer to CEO, Nick Cuomo Tells How He Raised 12M Series A for AllStar.gg!

In this episode, Nick Cuomo, CEO of AllStar.gg, shares his journey from the e-sports world as a former pro-gamer to founding a gaming technology startup. With a background in graphic design, digital marketing, and SaaS sales, Nick discusses his career path and the evolution of AllStar's mission to empower gamers as creators. Nick walks us through his fundraising journey, detailing how he attracted investors by optimizing user growth and engagement metrics. He also discusses the importance of building strategic connections and staying adaptable to market shifts, while offering practical advice for maintaining resilience during the fundraising process. Here's what you're in for: 00:31 Nick's Journey into gaming and entrepreneurship 10:50 Fundraising journey and initial challenges 21:11 The fundraising process 26:25 Adapting to market shifts and raising Series A 35:37 Metrics and benchmarks that attracted investors 39:47 Advice for founders This episode is sponsored by ThunderVC, an investment bank for founders by founders. Raising capital? Get a list of vetted VCs for FREE here: https://web.thunder.vc/list-of-investors-vcs-for-founders  Raising debt? Find the perfect lender in minutes here: https://debt.thunder.vc Get the latest fundraising insights, news, and tips - https://join.thunder.vc ABOUT GUEST Nick Cuomo is a former professional gamer and viral gaming video creator. With over 15 years of experience in technology, marketing, software, sales, and digital media, Nick's entrepreneurial spirit led him to establish Allstar in 2019. Their mission is to empower gamers to become creators by simplifying the process of sharing gameplay through innovative technology. Connect with Nick on: Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cuomon/ X: https://twitter.com/nickcuomo?lang=en Website: www.nickcuomo.com ABOUT FUNDRAISING DEMYSTIFIED Our goal is simple: to equip you with the knowledge, inspiration, and guidance to navigate the labyrinthine world of fundraising. Whether you're a budding entrepreneur seeking seed funding or an established founder looking to scale your business, this podcast will provide you with the tools you need to conquer the fundraising landscape. Thank you for being a loyal subscriber to Fundraising Demystified. We appreciate your support and are excited to continue bringing you more inspiring stories from successful founders. ABOUT JASON Jason Kirby is the co-founder of Thunder VC. He is a serial entrepreneur with 4 multi-million exits and decades of experience in fundraising and business building. He has coached hundreds of entrepreneurs in his career on fundraising, investing, capital strategy, and business development. You can reach out to Jason through: Email: [email protected] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonrkirby/