As a founder, you might hear the term ‘portfolio services’ or ‘platform services’ when speaking with investors. This refers to the services investors offer as a value-add beyond funding to help companies scale efficiently, innovate effectively, and connect strategically. This is about more than merely filling gaps identified during due diligence—it’s about forging a partnership where the investor actively collaborates with you to maximize growth potential, navigate market challenges, and leverage new opportunities.

Here are five key benefits of portfolio services, plus questions to help you evaluate and leverage these services.

1. Accelerating business development

Portfolio services offer startups access to a wide range of business development resources. For the founders we work with at Health2047, this might mean pilots at hospitals and health systems in our professional network, providing invaluable real-world data and early adoption feedback. These connections can accelerate growth and provide crucial validation for products or services. Additionally, we support our portfolio companies in brand building, whether that’s developing a go-to-market strategy or supporting a PR announcement.

2. Ensuring regulatory compliance

Navigating the complex regulatory landscape in healthcare can be daunting. Portfolio services often include compliance support, helping founders ensure their products meet regulations. At Health2047, we guide and partner with our portfolio companies to ensure they successfully navigate regulatory requirements such as HIPAA–and many have told us this helps fill a critical gap, even if they have prior healthcare experience. This guidance not only reduces risk but increases credibility with customers and investors. Founders can focus on innovation, knowing they have expert advice on maintaining compliance.

3. Filling talent gaps

Building a strong team is critical for success, and portfolio services can assist in filling gaps. For example, at Health2047, our staff help fill gaps by acting as fractional team members and advisors to portfolio companies. For example, during the early days of founding Health2047 portfolio company Zing Health, one of Health2047’s Managing Directors stepped in as Chief Commercial Officer, developing a refined go-to-market strategy and economic model. We also offer dedicated office space at our Menlo Park headquarters, providing a collaborative environment to work, take meetings and innovate.

4. Boosting operational efficiency

Portfolio services can help startups streamline their operations and optimize costs. This might involve negotiating better rates with vendors, providing access to shared resources, or offering tools to manage finances more effectively. At Health2047, we provide access to preferred vendors and pricing, helping our portfolio companies reduce operational costs and improve efficiency.

5. Expanding community and networks

Being part of a portfolio means joining a network of like-minded entrepreneurs and experts. Investors like Health2047 offer numerous community-building opportunities, including events where founders can share experiences, learn from each other, and build valuable relationships. This sense of community can provide ongoing support, inspiration, and collaboration opportunities that drive success. For example, at Health2047, our portfolio companies have opportunities to co-activate with us at leading industry events like HLTH, which are critical for lead generation and networking.

Evaluating portfolio services

When exploring what portfolio services an investor offers, consider the following questions to ensure you get the support you need:

1. What gaps in my team can the investor help fill?
2. What will my technology needs be over the next 6-12 months, and how can this investor support these needs?
3. Do they have advisors who could be valuable as subject matter experts and/or mentors?
4. Are there opportunities to pilot my product through the investor’s network?
5. Do they offer any regulatory or compliance guidance? Is this boilerplate or tailored to each company’s needs? 
6. What community and networking opportunities does the investor provide to connect with other founders and industry experts?
7. Are there advisors or others in the investor’s network that could provide buyer insights through key opinion leader (KOL) research?

Portfolio services offer significant advantages that go beyond financial investment. As a founder, it’s important to ask about these services when partnering with investors to ensure you have the support needed to succeed. By leveraging these resources, you can navigate industry complexities more effectively and achieve sustainable growth.