Slow response times on administrative tasks like NDAs or proposals are not minor issues; they are lead indicators of a bureaucratic, slow-moving CRO. These initial delays predict future problems with project timelines and overall agility, signaling a poor potential partner.
Traditional ELISA techniques for biologics are slow and expensive, requiring separate validations for each molecule. Modern mass spectrometry can analyze a mixture of biologics (e.g., six antibodies) in a single, more accurate run, potentially cutting the analytical portion of development costs by 50%.
Operating a public company isn't just a change in funding; it's like running two entities. One is the operational business, and the other is a public-facing organization requiring constant management of institutional investors, which significantly distracts from core business goals.
Ron Najafi advises founders to accept investment when it's offered rather than over-negotiating valuation. The security of having capital on hand to navigate unforeseen challenges like clinical study hiccups is more critical for long-term survival than a marginal valuation increase.