Dr. Linda Peters - Member, River Valley Investors
Over the course of the past five years that I’ve known Paul Silva, he has impressed me as a natural leader, but probably even more importantly, as an individual who accomplishes the tasks that he undertakes with great diligence and integrity.
As the catalyst for our membership, Paul has attracted and screened numerous deals (through a website he developed and administers) and has been extremely insightful in terms of determining which ones will be of interest to the membership. His ‘coaching’ of the companies invited to present has without exception resulted in professional and informative presentations by the entrepreneurs. This has proved to be a critical step in the process as the presentation is the sole determinant of whether or not due diligence is initiated.
As the facilitator of the due diligence teams, Paul has single-handedly improved the process by creating a template for investors that has literally turned a burdensome duty into an enjoyable experience for the lead investor(s). The planning and coordination efforts displayed time and time again by Paul in regards to recruitment gatherings, monthly meetings, due diligence telephone conferences, taking and compiling notes, and basically managing all the logistical details of the day to day management of the River Valley Investors (RVI) have been invaluable to our group.
I have also dealt with Paul in his role as the advisor to the University of Massachusetts Amherst Entrepreneurship Initiative, a program developed to support and educate college-aged entrepreneurs who are part of the five-college system, including the University of Massachusetts, Amherst College, Smith College, Hampshire College, and Mount Holyoke College. Paul’s efforts in this program have turned it from a ‘dwindling and dying’ club into a thriving and highly successful initiative in just two years.
I have complete confidence that Paul will succeed in any venture he undertakes simply because his entrepreneurial spirit drives him to success. He sees challenges as learning and growing opportunities and knows that his work ethic and management expertise will help him overcome barriers that cross his path. I would encourage you to utilize Paul Silva’s skills offered through his company, Angel Catalyst Management … you’ll have made the right decision – guaranteed!
Linda M. L. Peters, Ph.D.
Member, the River Valley Investors