Our Practice


Capital Ideas specializes in finding and opening new markets, both to commercialize new technologies and to expand existing product lines. We have a track record of building high growth businesses that become industry leaders. Our differentiation includes our deep experience in the three key areas of technology, markets and finance.

Capital Ideas services include:

  • finding large, "high pain point" market opportunities and customers, both for new technologies and for existing product lines,

  • developing strategies and implementation plans for initial commercialization and for market expansion,

  • implementing these strategies and plans, and

  • when appropriate, joining the team on an interim basis in a senior executive capacity (President or VP).

We have provided these services to dozens of businesses since 1990, including Fortune 500's, venture capitalists and  startups. 


Why Clients Call Us


Our clients typically have complex technologies and fiercely competitive market environments.

They want a firm that understands the subtleties of their markets and technologies, and can identify and implement effective growth strategies.

They want a firm that has field-proven, systematic processes for identifying "high pain point" market opportunities and receptive prospective customers.

They want a firm that is entrepreneurial, intelligent, adaptable and high energy. One that can roll-up-its-sleeves and be a highly effective addition to the management team during implementation.

They want a firm with deep ties to the investment community, including extensive experience on both sides of the fundraising process (experience as both a fundraising company and as an investor).

Businesses that we are fluent in include semiconductors, cleantech (renewables, storage & the SmartGrid), communications  (datacom & telecom, both wired & wireless), software, the Internet and computers.

Our assignments have included both initial commercialization and expansion of existing businesses. David MacMillan is personally involved in all engagements and we can provide complete teams of highly experienced executives, if needed.

Capital Ideas is located in Silicon Valley (Northern California).