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Devin Thorpe
Sep 18, 2024, 1:33:15 AM9/18/24
to Impact Cherub Club
Hi Cherubs,
Next steps
• Yoga and Chris to conduct due diligence on Halcium Energy for the next meeting.
• Devin to research and present on Solar for Smith's Supermarket project at the next meeting.
• Devin to send out the recording and transcript of the current meeting to all members.
• All members to consider inviting friends to join the Impact Cherub Club to grow the movement.
• All members to think about and discuss options for improving group communication and engagement at the next meeting.
Summary
Neighborhood Visit, Summer Weather, Busy Schedules
Devin expressed his desire to visit Chris's neighborhood, recalling their honeymoon in the area. Yoga shared about the mild summer weather in Minneapolis, though a cold winter lies ahead. Karl discussed his busy schedule, including his wife's charity gala and his upcoming rappelling event for a cancer charity. Chandan was grateful to attend and mentioned preparing for a busy week.
Change Makers and Impact Investors Update
Devin welcomed the group and reminded them about the recording rules. He emphasized the importance of the group, calling them change makers and genuine impact investors. The group then shared updates about their personal lives. Gail shared her successful elbow replacement surgery, while Chris announced the approval of another rotary grant to work in Kenya. Yoga shared her recent signing up for a program to advise on nonprofit decisions, and Chandan shared his child's achievement in Taekwondo.
New Organization and Community Investment Discussion
Karl discussed the formation of a new organization, Rci Community Funds, which will adopt Nc. Three's diversified community investment fund model. He also mentioned a collaboration with the Center for the Common Good to start a series of programs on community rebuilding. Devin welcomed Marie, a new member, and thanked the team for their input in selecting companies to review. Devin also encouraged the team to invite friends to join the club, emphasizing the goal of building a movement. He reminded the team about the $5.95 monthly dues, which help cover expenses. Kevin also participated in the meeting.
Transition to Google Group System Discussion
Kevin shared his experience of raising his grandson and how it has impacted his life. Devin then discussed the transition to the Google group system for their operations, highlighting its benefits and drawbacks. He expressed concerns about the lower engagement due to the inability to personalize messages as before, and asked for feedback on whether to allow group members to respond to the group with messages. Kevin suggested the possibility of choosing a weekly digest or being in the conversation, but noted that it might not be ideal for reminders. Devin proposed alternative platforms for ongoing discussions, such as a private Facebook group or a Substack group.
Forum Creation and Investment Updates Discussion
Devin proposed the idea of creating a forum for the group, suggesting either Slack or Discord, but expressed reluctance due to past low activity. Yoga suggested using existing platforms like Slack or Discord, depending on the group's demographic. Devin suggested considering the decision further in the next meeting, and shared links to the previous meeting's recording and the group's investment log. He also reminded the group about the upcoming'super crowd hour' presentation on beating the stock market with impact crowdfunding. Lastly, Devin mentioned the approval of an investment in El Centro Home, and handed over the discussion to Kevin for his report on Africa Eats.
Investment Opportunity in African Food Holding Company
Kevin discussed a potential investment opportunity in a holding company that invests in privately owned food businesses in Africa. The company is planning to go public on the Mauritius Stock Exchange, which could increase its capitalization. Kevin highlighted the company's exceptional revenue growth and profitability, despite being a holding company. He also mentioned that the investment is speculative but has a replicable model. Devin agreed with Kevin's assessment and added that the company has 31 million in trailing aggregate revenue and a modest valuation relative to that. However, he also acknowledged some complexities in the investment. The team agreed to consider the investment opportunity further.
Voting Process and Model Concerns Discussed
Devin initiated a voting process among the 7 members present, with Marie being the only one who hadn't voted. The results were a tie, which, according to their tradition, left the decision up to each member. Kevin expressed interest in the model despite the tie, and Karl shared his concerns about the model's potential, citing its novelty and dependence on going public. Yoga also expressed concerns about the schedule C, which he felt was not accurately represented in the proposal. Despite these concerns, Kevin remained optimistic about the model's potential and decided to invest.
Exploring Green Compass and Climate Change Solutions
Kevin expressed his confidence in Looney's ability to adapt and succeed, despite potential challenges. Devin then shifted the discussion to another company, Green Compass, which specializes in retrofitting commercial and multifamily buildings to combat climate change. Devin highlighted Green Compass's focus on storm water runoff projects, which are inspired by a credit marketplace created by DC and other municipalities. He also mentioned that Green Compass arranges financing for these projects, often in non-profit settings. The team agreed to further explore this company.
Green Compass Investment Opportunity Discussion
Devin discussed a potential investment opportunity in a company called Green Compass. He highlighted the deal's terms, including an 8% interest rate and maturity in 18 months, and shared his positive assessment of the company's experience and projects. Devin also mentioned that the investment aligns with his goal of achieving a 10% portfolio return. The team voted to invest in Green Compass, with no objections raised. Devin also mentioned that Jackie Logan, a key officer at Raise Green, is involved in the offering. Kevin expressed interest in hearing objections to a different deal and requested a transcript of the meeting.
Valuation Importance in Investment Decisions
Devin emphasized the importance of valuation in investment decisions, particularly in equity type investments. He stressed that if everything else looks good but the valuation is off, it's essentially a donation. Devin also shared a rule of thumb, suggesting that a fair valuation should leave existing shareholders with 90% and new investors with about 10%. He advised that this should not be the sole basis for investment decisions, but it should be a starting point for further due diligence.
Investment Opportunities and Project Assignments
Devin presented two potential investment opportunities: Halcium, a small wind turbine startup, and a solar project for Smith's Supermarket in rural America. Devin sought a volunteer to conduct due diligence on Halcium, with Yoga expressing interest but hesitancy due to limited capacity. Devin also explained the financing structure of the solar project, which relies on federal grants and investment tax credits. Devin assigned tasks to the team members, with Yoga to look into the calcium energy project and himself to work on the solar project for Smith supermarket. Devin also asked Yoga if he would welcome a friend to help with the due diligence on the calcium project. Chris expressed interest in working on the Halcium project despite his lack of knowledge and offered to collaborate with Yoga. Devin agreed to this collaboration and encouraged Chris to learn more about the project.
AI-generated content may be inaccurate or misleading. Always check for accuracy.
We had a great meeting today. Here's a recording.
Just a quick reminder that last month, we voted to invest in El Centro Home; the offering is now closed.
Today, Kevin reported on Africa Eats, recommending the investment. After discussion, we voted and the result was a tie, meaning that Cherubs are on their own to decide. Then, I reported on Green Compass, recommending the investment. After discussion and a vote, we decide to invest.
You can see our investment decision log here: http://log.impactcherub.com.
We briefly reviewed two candidates for next month. Yoga and Chris Cairns agreed to look at Halcium Energy. I volunteered to report on Solar for Smith's Supermarket.
If you haven't already, we invite you to support our work by joining the SuperCrowd as an Impact Member (paying subscriber).
Education Moment: We discussed the importance of valuation and considered my rule of thumb: Is the current round of funding equal to at least 10% of the valuation?
Wednesday at 1:00 Eastern, I'm hosting the monthly SuperCrowdHour. Our topic will be "Can I Beat the Stock Market with Impact Crowdfunding Investments?" Please join us.
Our next meeting will be held on October 15 at 1:00 Eastern. Invite a friend!!!
Thank you so much!
dt
P.S. Remember, this due diligence scorecard may help you organize your research and this AI tool may help you do it.
P.P.S. Here's the Zoom AI Recap (with uncorrected errors):
Meeting summary for Impact Cherub Club (09/17/2024)
Quick recap
Devin and the team discussed their personal lives, the transition to a new Google group system, and the potential for creating a forum for the group. They also reviewed potential investment opportunities, including a holding company investing in privately owned food businesses in Africa and a company specializing in retrofitting commercial and multifamily buildings to combat climate change. The team agreed to further explore these opportunities and assigned tasks for due diligence.
Quick recap
Devin and the team discussed their personal lives, the transition to a new Google group system, and the potential for creating a forum for the group. They also reviewed potential investment opportunities, including a holding company investing in privately owned food businesses in Africa and a company specializing in retrofitting commercial and multifamily buildings to combat climate change. The team agreed to further explore these opportunities and assigned tasks for due diligence.
Next steps
• Yoga and Chris to conduct due diligence on Halcium Energy for the next meeting.
• Devin to research and present on Solar for Smith's Supermarket project at the next meeting.
• Devin to send out the recording and transcript of the current meeting to all members.
• All members to consider inviting friends to join the Impact Cherub Club to grow the movement.
• All members to think about and discuss options for improving group communication and engagement at the next meeting.
Summary
Neighborhood Visit, Summer Weather, Busy Schedules
Devin expressed his desire to visit Chris's neighborhood, recalling their honeymoon in the area. Yoga shared about the mild summer weather in Minneapolis, though a cold winter lies ahead. Karl discussed his busy schedule, including his wife's charity gala and his upcoming rappelling event for a cancer charity. Chandan was grateful to attend and mentioned preparing for a busy week.
Change Makers and Impact Investors Update
Devin welcomed the group and reminded them about the recording rules. He emphasized the importance of the group, calling them change makers and genuine impact investors. The group then shared updates about their personal lives. Gail shared her successful elbow replacement surgery, while Chris announced the approval of another rotary grant to work in Kenya. Yoga shared her recent signing up for a program to advise on nonprofit decisions, and Chandan shared his child's achievement in Taekwondo.
New Organization and Community Investment Discussion
Karl discussed the formation of a new organization, Rci Community Funds, which will adopt Nc. Three's diversified community investment fund model. He also mentioned a collaboration with the Center for the Common Good to start a series of programs on community rebuilding. Devin welcomed Marie, a new member, and thanked the team for their input in selecting companies to review. Devin also encouraged the team to invite friends to join the club, emphasizing the goal of building a movement. He reminded the team about the $5.95 monthly dues, which help cover expenses. Kevin also participated in the meeting.
Transition to Google Group System Discussion
Kevin shared his experience of raising his grandson and how it has impacted his life. Devin then discussed the transition to the Google group system for their operations, highlighting its benefits and drawbacks. He expressed concerns about the lower engagement due to the inability to personalize messages as before, and asked for feedback on whether to allow group members to respond to the group with messages. Kevin suggested the possibility of choosing a weekly digest or being in the conversation, but noted that it might not be ideal for reminders. Devin proposed alternative platforms for ongoing discussions, such as a private Facebook group or a Substack group.
Forum Creation and Investment Updates Discussion
Devin proposed the idea of creating a forum for the group, suggesting either Slack or Discord, but expressed reluctance due to past low activity. Yoga suggested using existing platforms like Slack or Discord, depending on the group's demographic. Devin suggested considering the decision further in the next meeting, and shared links to the previous meeting's recording and the group's investment log. He also reminded the group about the upcoming'super crowd hour' presentation on beating the stock market with impact crowdfunding. Lastly, Devin mentioned the approval of an investment in El Centro Home, and handed over the discussion to Kevin for his report on Africa Eats.
Investment Opportunity in African Food Holding Company
Kevin discussed a potential investment opportunity in a holding company that invests in privately owned food businesses in Africa. The company is planning to go public on the Mauritius Stock Exchange, which could increase its capitalization. Kevin highlighted the company's exceptional revenue growth and profitability, despite being a holding company. He also mentioned that the investment is speculative but has a replicable model. Devin agreed with Kevin's assessment and added that the company has 31 million in trailing aggregate revenue and a modest valuation relative to that. However, he also acknowledged some complexities in the investment. The team agreed to consider the investment opportunity further.
Voting Process and Model Concerns Discussed
Devin initiated a voting process among the 7 members present, with Marie being the only one who hadn't voted. The results were a tie, which, according to their tradition, left the decision up to each member. Kevin expressed interest in the model despite the tie, and Karl shared his concerns about the model's potential, citing its novelty and dependence on going public. Yoga also expressed concerns about the schedule C, which he felt was not accurately represented in the proposal. Despite these concerns, Kevin remained optimistic about the model's potential and decided to invest.
Exploring Green Compass and Climate Change Solutions
Kevin expressed his confidence in Looney's ability to adapt and succeed, despite potential challenges. Devin then shifted the discussion to another company, Green Compass, which specializes in retrofitting commercial and multifamily buildings to combat climate change. Devin highlighted Green Compass's focus on storm water runoff projects, which are inspired by a credit marketplace created by DC and other municipalities. He also mentioned that Green Compass arranges financing for these projects, often in non-profit settings. The team agreed to further explore this company.
Green Compass Investment Opportunity Discussion
Devin discussed a potential investment opportunity in a company called Green Compass. He highlighted the deal's terms, including an 8% interest rate and maturity in 18 months, and shared his positive assessment of the company's experience and projects. Devin also mentioned that the investment aligns with his goal of achieving a 10% portfolio return. The team voted to invest in Green Compass, with no objections raised. Devin also mentioned that Jackie Logan, a key officer at Raise Green, is involved in the offering. Kevin expressed interest in hearing objections to a different deal and requested a transcript of the meeting.
Valuation Importance in Investment Decisions
Devin emphasized the importance of valuation in investment decisions, particularly in equity type investments. He stressed that if everything else looks good but the valuation is off, it's essentially a donation. Devin also shared a rule of thumb, suggesting that a fair valuation should leave existing shareholders with 90% and new investors with about 10%. He advised that this should not be the sole basis for investment decisions, but it should be a starting point for further due diligence.
Investment Opportunities and Project Assignments
Devin presented two potential investment opportunities: Halcium, a small wind turbine startup, and a solar project for Smith's Supermarket in rural America. Devin sought a volunteer to conduct due diligence on Halcium, with Yoga expressing interest but hesitancy due to limited capacity. Devin also explained the financing structure of the solar project, which relies on federal grants and investment tax credits. Devin assigned tasks to the team members, with Yoga to look into the calcium energy project and himself to work on the solar project for Smith supermarket. Devin also asked Yoga if he would welcome a friend to help with the due diligence on the calcium project. Chris expressed interest in working on the Halcium project despite his lack of knowledge and offered to collaborate with Yoga. Devin agreed to this collaboration and encouraged Chris to learn more about the project.
AI-generated content may be inaccurate or misleading. Always check for accuracy.
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