The Tuesday Update: Supporting Recovery and Building Resilience After the California Wildfires
- Langston Tolbert
- Jan 14
- 2 min read

Supporting Recovery and Growth
Our hearts go out to everyone impacted by the California wildfires. These moments remind us of what truly matters—family, community, and resilience. Rebuilding isn’t easy, but there are resources to help.
If you’ve been affected, the SBA Disaster Assistance Program offers low-interest loans for rebuilding and recovery. Don’t navigate this alone—take advantage of the support available.
Explore Resources:
Why Climate Adaptation Is a Big Deal Right Now
Wildfires and other climate-driven events are reshaping priorities for investors. Founders tackling these challenges—like disaster resilience, renewable construction, or insurtech—are gaining traction.
Startups like Frontline Wildfire Defense and Stand are showing what’s possible when mission and investment align. Their backers (Inspired Capital, Lowercarbon Capital, Equal Ventures, and Convective Capital) are proof that finding investors who share your vision is the way forward.
Action Steps for Founders:
Look local: Investors near you often share your goals.
Check out programs like SSBCI (Explore here) to find state-backed funding options.
3. How to Pitch Without Crossing Legal Lines
The SEC has been cracking down on “fake it till you make it” culture. Overhyping your progress or potential isn’t just risky—it can be a legal nightmare.
Keep it Real:
Be upfront about what’s done versus what’s planned.
Include safe harbor statements in your pitch decks. These disclaimers protect you when discussing forward-looking projections. Learn more in our guides: Part 1 | Part 2.
Work with a lawyer who understands securities laws.
Transparency builds trust and keeps regulators off your back.
Quick Financial Snapshot
Funding Trends You Need to Know
Pre-Seed/Seed Dominance: 88% of early-stage deals now use SAFE notes (Carta Report). They’re simple but know your terms—valuation caps and pro-rata rights matter.
Investors Tighten Up: PitchBook shows investors are getting tougher, demanding stronger fundamentals and better terms.
Sector Spotlight: AI remains hot—$1 out of every $3 in venture funding is going to AI startups (Barron’s).
Upcoming Seminars
🎤 Unlocking SBA Financing for Business Acquisitions
January 22 with Brian Kennedy of AmPac Capital
Learn how to use SBA loans to buy businesses, structure deals, and scale strategically. Founders and business owners, this one’s for you.
6. Ready to Talk Strategy?
Navigating funding or planning your next big move doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Whether you’re raising capital, structuring SAFE notes, or preparing to sell your business, we can help.
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