New venture capital funds take root; former Shaw associates forming new funds. (Herb Shaw and Alan Dishlip)

Former Shaw associates forming new funds

Herb Shaw and Alan Dishlip stood at the side of venture capital veteran Ralph Shaw for years.

Now Ralph Shaw's former lieutenants are independently forming their own venture capital funds that will compete against those of their former boss.

If realized, Shaw and Dishlip's separate plans could access $125 million in available capital. Combined with other funds that are under formation, their efforts could go a long way toward ending a perceived shortfall in capital for the Northwest's small companies.

"Lots of companies have a difficult time," Dishlip said. "Having more capital available increases their chances of obtaining some amount of financing."

A study performed late last year by local offices of national accounting firms concluded that Oregon's supply of venture capital was deteriorating. Oregon had ranked sixth nationally in disbursements in 1984, with $6.5 million. But Oregon's ranking plummeted to 18th in 1989 despite $25.9 million in disbursements, then fell to 29th in 1994 with just $15.5 million invested. Over that period, venture capital …