VC 101 - Alumni Ventures

All blogs tagged VC 101

May 22, 2025
VC in 33: Why is Diversification Important in Venture Investing?
Venture capital thrives on a few big wins. In this short explainer, learn why successful VC strategies focus on large, diversified portfolios—typically 50 to 200 companies—to manage risk and increase the odds of capturing breakthrough returns.
by Alumni Ventures
May 21, 2025
Why Are You Passionate About Venture Capital?
What makes venture capital so exciting? In this video, Ron Levin shares how running a VC fund is about more than just returns — it’s about backing visionary founders tackling the world’s biggest challenges. From global health to technology, discover how venture investing can drive large-scale impact while creating powerful opportunities for growth.
by Alumni Ventures
May 21, 2025
How Does Co-Investing Work?
In venture capital, financing rounds rarely involve just one firm. In this video, learn how AV plays a key role as a co-investor alongside other established venture firms like Sequoia, Andreessen Horowitz, and Benchmark. Michael Collins explains how AV adds value beyond capital — through board support, strategic introductions, and a powerful network that helps secure access to the most competitive deals.
by Alumni Ventures
May 9, 2025
What is Early Stage Venture Investing & Why Does it Matter?
What makes early-stage venture investing so powerful — and risky? In this short video, Michael Collins breaks down why investing in startups at their earliest stages, often before they have a product or customers, can lead to transformative impact and returns. Learn how high risk can bring high reward — for both investors and society.
by Alumni Ventures
May 9, 2025
VC in 33: How Does AV Use Its Network to Support Portfolio Companies?
At Alumni Ventures, our network is our strength. In this video, we share how we leverage our incredible community of investors to support the growth of our portfolio companies. From strategic introductions to sharing industry expertise, our network helps founders thrive. Hear why being part of the Alumni Ventures community means more than just capital — it’s about connections, ideas, and real support.
by Alumni Ventures
May 9, 2025
How Long Does it Take to Make Money in VC?
In venture capital, patience is key. In this video, we break down how long it typically takes to see returns from venture investments. From early down rounds to big exits that can take years, we share insights on why this is a long-term asset class and what to expect when investing in a VC fund. Join us as we explore the journey from investment to potential payoff and why successful exits often come later in the process.
by Alumni Ventures
May 9, 2025
How Are VC Funds Structured?
Ever wonder how a venture capital fund is structured? In this quick explainer, we walk you through the simple yet powerful structure behind VC funds — how money is pooled, invested, and returned. Learn what it means to write one check in and receive multiple checks out, and why most returns are classified as capital gains, not income.
by Alumni Ventures
May 6, 2025
What is Venture Capital?
What exactly is venture capital—and why does it matter? In this quick video, we explain the vital role VC plays in fueling innovation. Venture capital provides early-stage funding to bold, high-ambition startups that aim to change the world. Learn how this unique part of the economy helps visionary entrepreneurs turn big ideas into reality.
by Alumni Ventures
May 6, 2025
What are K1s?
Are you an investor in venture capital and wondering what tax documents to expect? In this quick video, we break down what a Schedule K-1 is, how it’s different from W-2s or 1099s, and what it means for your annual tax filing. Learn why K-1s are the standard for reporting your share of taxable activity in a venture fund—and how Alumni Ventures ensures timely delivery of thousands of K-1s each year so you can meet IRS deadlines.
by Alumni Ventures
December 3, 20247 min read
Venture Curious?: Demystifying Venture Capital for the Aspiring Venture Investor
Venture capital (VC) is often seen as a mysterious and exclusive corner of the financial world. But at its heart, it’s simple: investing in innovation to create value. From early investments in Uber to the AI revolution, many of today’s top companies and technologies are being funded by venture firms and their investors. In this blog, I’ll walk you through the basics of VC — what it is, how it works, and why you too might find it the perfect addition to your investment portfolio.
by Michael Collins
November 4, 20242 min read
Lead Investor or Co-Investor?
Discover the key roles of lead investors and co-investors in venture capital and how they work together to fund and support high-growth startups.
by Alumni Ventures
November 4, 20242 min read
Seed, Early, Growth — What’s the Difference?
Explore the key stages of venture capital investing. Discover how each stage presents distinct opportunities for building a diversified portfolio.
by Alumni Ventures

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