FAQs

I just need one or two of the services AVEC offers. Do you offer stand-alone services?

Absolutely! Contact us about your firm’s challenges and specific needs and we’ll discuss options for how we can help you achieve your goals.

Does AVEC invest capital in small architecture firms?

No. This is because small architecture firms typically have broader needs than short-term capital in order to reach a point of long-term sustainable profitability.

What do you look for in an Investment Partner firm?

A commitment to growing healthy and profitable design business, as well as common values and a desire to learn. Our working style is highly collaborative, so partner firms must be willing to roll up their sleeves and work together toward improvement.

What is Net Operating Revenue?

Net operating revenue (NOR) is total firm revenue minus reimbursable (pass-through) expenses, such as project-related consultants and miscellaneous project-related expenses.

Can you give me a sense of the percentage of Net Operating Revenue taken and how that is determined?

The percentage is based on our estimated cost of providing services and the level of risk we’re taking that your firm will increase its revenues. It ranges depending on the volume of NOR the firm is realistically predicted to generate.

Does AVEC take an equity/ownership stake?

No. AVEC does not take any equity position in your firm.

If I start working with AVEC, will you take a percentage of revenue from work I’ve already procured before our contract started?

Yes. Invoicing begins after the completion of our first month of work. At the completion of the contract, you will continue to receive revenue from projects and clients procured during your relationship with AVEC and we will not take a percentage of that invoicing.

What happens at the end of our engagement?

When a firm completes its work with AVEC, it becomes an “alumnus” of the AVEC program for no additional charge. You’ll have full access to the AVEC Knowledge-Sharing Community, online resources, etc. and they are included in all AVEC events. Investment Partners may also work with AVEC on an ongoing “alumni” retainer.