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Our strong belief is that a robust, diversified venture portfolio should have a place in every sophisticated investment portfolio.
Engagement Opportunities
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Catalytic Capital: Pioneering Investment in Underserved Markets
Join Alumni Ventures CEO Michael Collins and Principal Lucas Pasch for an insightful webinar titled “Catalytic Capital: Pioneering Investment in Underserved Markets”
by Alumni Ventures
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Economics Unfiltered: Markets, Trends and VC with Influential Economist Kyla Scanlon
Join us for an insightful webinar featuring Alumni Ventures CEO Mike Collins in conversation with the dynamic economist Kyla Scanlon.
by Alumni Ventures
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Masterclass: The Case for Sports Investment with Mohit Pareek of Drake Star Partners
Explore the exciting world of sports investment in this engaging webinar, part of our Masterclass series, hosted by Keaton Nankivil, Senior Principal of Alumni Ventures Sports Fund.
by Alumni Ventures
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Gut Health and Your Microbiome: Separating Facts from Fiction
Join us for an enlightening webinar, “Gut Health and Your Microbiome: Separating Facts from Fiction,” where Alumni Ventures HealthTech Fund Managing Partner David Shapiro and guests will delve into the intricacies of gut health.
by Alumni Ventures
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8 Trends We Think Most Investors Will Miss
Ready to sharpen your investment strategy with cutting-edge insights into the future of technology? Join our exclusive AV Masterclass, 8 Deep Tech Trends Investors Are Missing, and discover the emerging innovations reshaping the world—from space exploration to clean energy.
by Alumni Ventures
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VC Unicorn Hunting: What VCs Look For
Ever wondered how venture capitalists spot the next big thing? Join us for VC Unicorn Hunting: What VCs Look For, an exclusive AV Masterclass that delves into the minds of top VCs as they hunt for the next Apple, Facebook, or Airbnb.
by Alumni Ventures
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Catalytic Capital: Pioneering Investment in Underserved Markets
Join Alumni Ventures CEO Michael Collins and Principal Lucas Pasch for an insightful webinar titled “Catalytic Capital: Pioneering Investment in Underserved Markets”
by Alumni Ventures
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Economics Unfiltered: Markets, Trends and VC with Influential Economist Kyla Scanlon
Join us for an insightful webinar featuring Alumni Ventures CEO Mike Collins in conversation with the dynamic economist Kyla Scanlon.
by Alumni Ventures
Founders and Portcos
Tech Optimist Episode #47: Sahara AI: The Company Creating a Collaborative AI Economy
In this episode of the Tech Optimist, Alumni Ventures’ Managing Partner Ray Wu discusses the future of AI sovereignty with Sean Ren, CEO and co-founder of Sahara AI, as they discuss how Saraha AI covers the intricate balance between advancing AI technology and ensuring ethical standards and user privacy are maintained. Dive into a detailed discussion on how Sahara AI is shaping a new landscape where technology meets user empowerment and security.
by Alumni Ventures
Episode #52: Meet the Start-up Reinventing Patent Work with AI
In this episode of the Alumni Ventures’ Tech Optimist podcast, Paul Lee, co-founder and CEO of Patlytics, discusses how their AI-driven platform is revolutionizing patent protection through advanced analytics. Joined by Ray Wu, they explore the impact of technology on intellectual property, offering insights for inventors and entrepreneurs on enhancing efficiency and security in patent enforcement.
by Alumni Ventures
AVTV: Slate
Slate is a social media content creation platform for brands that allows social media, marketing, and design teams within organizations to easily create, manage, and publish on-brand content across every channel.
by Alumni Ventures
Episode #51: Meet the Startup: Bezel - The New Platform for Watch Enthusiasts
In this episode of the Tech Optimist podcast, Mike Collins interviews Quaid Walker and Chase Pion, co-founders of Bezel, who discuss their journey from watch collectors to transforming the luxury watch-buying experience. They highlight how Bezel ensures authenticity and quality, leveraging technology to build trust and accessibility for both seasoned enthusiasts and newcomers in the world of horology.
by Alumni Ventures
Episode #49: Meet the Startup Building Secure Data Warehouses for Our Ever-Changing World
In this episode of the Tech Optimist podcast, Managing Partner Ray Wu sits down with Nate Holiday, the visionary co-founder and CEO of Space and Time as they discuss their innovative decentralized data warehouse designed for blockchain and AI applications, emphasizing transparency and tamper-proof data processing. Space and Time’s recent Series A funding will help expand customer adoption and accelerate development of their unique Proof of SQL technology for verifiable database operations.
by Alumni Ventures
AVTV: Provenance
Provenance is a blockchain-based data platform for consumer sustainability, validating and amplifying green credentials for e-commerce.
by Alumni Ventures
Tech Optimist Episode #47: Sahara AI: The Company Creating a Collaborative AI Economy
In this episode of the Tech Optimist, Alumni Ventures’ Managing Partner Ray Wu discusses the future of AI sovereignty with Sean Ren, CEO and co-founder of Sahara AI, as they discuss how Saraha AI covers the intricate balance between advancing AI technology and ensuring ethical standards and user privacy are maintained. Dive into a detailed discussion on how Sahara AI is shaping a new landscape where technology meets user empowerment and security.
by Alumni Ventures
Episode #52: Meet the Start-up Reinventing Patent Work with AI
In this episode of the Alumni Ventures’ Tech Optimist podcast, Paul Lee, co-founder and CEO of Patlytics, discusses how their AI-driven platform is revolutionizing patent protection through advanced analytics. Joined by Ray Wu, they explore the impact of technology on intellectual property, offering insights for inventors and entrepreneurs on enhancing efficiency and security in patent enforcement.
by Alumni Ventures
VC 101
VC 101: A Guide to Venture Capital for RIAs
In the evolving investment landscape, venture capital stands out as a unique asset class, offering wealth managers and financial advisers an opportunity to further diversify their clients’ portfolios beyond traditional stocks, bonds, and the growing options for core alternative assets. In this on-demand webinar, we explain why a VC firm’s expertise, like that of Alumni Ventures, is crucial in guiding RIAs through investing in this high-potential asset class, leveraging their experience to identify promising startups.
by Alumni Ventures
VC 101: The Compelling Case for VC in Your Portfolio
Learn why venture capital can be a compelling addition to your portfolio. In this video, we discuss the rising demand for alternative investments, with a particular focus on the dynamic domain of VC. Our team explores the unique characteristics that differentiate VC from traditional asset classes, the long-term nature of the asset class, and its potential for generating exceptional returns and value creation.
by Alumni Ventures
VC 101: Private Equity vs. Venture Capital
Do you know the difference between private equity and venture capital? In this episode of VC 101, Chief Community Officer Luke Antal discusses the key differences between these alternative asset classes.
by Luke Antal
VC 101: The Stages of Investing
Understanding the nuances of the different stages of investing can help accredited investors determine proper allocation and even estimate growth potential. In this episode of VC 101, AV Co-Founder and CCO Luke Antal discusses the specific characteristics of seed, early, and growth-stage companies and the benefits of having a diversified portfolio containing all three.
by Luke Antal
VC 101: Venture Capital Access for Individuals
Venture capital has historically only been accessible to large institutions and ultra-high-net-worth individuals. Since 2014, Alumni Ventures has democratized this high-potential asset class, raising more than $1.2 billion from nearly 10,000 accredited individuals. In this edition of VC 101, our executive team explains why we believe that individual investors should consider diversifying their portfolios with venture.
by Luke Antal
VC 101: Key VC Terminology for Savvy Investors
What does “Run Rate” even mean? And what in the world is a SPAC? Whether you’re brand-new to investing or have a few deals under your belt, you may be puzzled by certain terms commonly used to describe venture companies and deals. To help, we’ve compiled this handy guide.
by Luke Antal
VC 101: A Guide to Venture Capital for RIAs
In the evolving investment landscape, venture capital stands out as a unique asset class, offering wealth managers and financial advisers an opportunity to further diversify their clients’ portfolios beyond traditional stocks, bonds, and the growing options for core alternative assets. In this on-demand webinar, we explain why a VC firm’s expertise, like that of Alumni Ventures, is crucial in guiding RIAs through investing in this high-potential asset class, leveraging their experience to identify promising startups.
by Alumni Ventures
VC 101: The Compelling Case for VC in Your Portfolio
Learn why venture capital can be a compelling addition to your portfolio. In this video, we discuss the rising demand for alternative investments, with a particular focus on the dynamic domain of VC. Our team explores the unique characteristics that differentiate VC from traditional asset classes, the long-term nature of the asset class, and its potential for generating exceptional returns and value creation.
by Alumni Ventures
VC Masterclass
VC Masterclass: The Art of Evaluating a Deal — Part 4
In the final installment of our Masterclass series on The Art of Evaluating a Deal focuses on the importance of assessing CEOs and their teams. Key points include emphasizing “founder-market fit” and scrutinizing team dynamics.
by Mark D. Edwards
VC Masterclass: How AV Evaluates Deals
One of the most critical aspects of venture capital is a firm’s approach to sourcing and vetting deals. In this video, AV’s Deputy CIO, Andy Ervin, walks viewers through our rigorous, disciplined process for evaluating investments.
by Andy Ervin
VC Masterclass: The Art of Evaluating a Deal — Part 1
How do venture capitalists select the companies they invest in? What do they evaluate—and how? Welcome to our four-part Masterclass blog series. We’ll walk you through how we evaluate deals at Alumni Ventures. This first installment delves into the Deal Dynamics that shape our investment decisions.
by Mark D. Edwards
VC Masterclass: The Art of Evaluating a Deal — Part 2
In the second part of our Masterclass on The Art of Evaluating a Deal, we evaluate the lead investor in a venture round. In VC, a select group of firms consistently outperforms market indices — so as a value-add co-investor, we’re looking to invest alongside those leaders. Our checklist includes the firm’s quality, the lead partner’s sector, stage experience, and their conviction. We use a case study to bring the example to life and discuss the challenges in separating a firm’s performance from a lead partner’s.
by Mark D. Edwards
VC Masterclass: The Art of Evaluating a Deal — Part 3
We’re continuing our blogs on how AV teams typically evaluate a deal. As part of our Masterclass series, this addresses some of the basic questions our investors have about venture.
by Mark D. Edwards
VC Masterclass: The Art of Evaluating a Deal — Part 4
In the final installment of our Masterclass series on The Art of Evaluating a Deal focuses on the importance of assessing CEOs and their teams. Key points include emphasizing “founder-market fit” and scrutinizing team dynamics.
by Mark D. Edwards
VC Masterclass: How AV Evaluates Deals
One of the most critical aspects of venture capital is a firm’s approach to sourcing and vetting deals. In this video, AV’s Deputy CIO, Andy Ervin, walks viewers through our rigorous, disciplined process for evaluating investments.
by Andy Ervin
Trends
The Future of Work: Challenges and Solutions
The future of work is rapidly evolving, driven by new technologies, evolving economic conditions, and shifting societal expectations. This transition towards more adaptable, technology-focused, and employee-centered environments presents both opportunities and challenges for workers and organizations alike. Traditional jobs are undergoing significant transformations, fundamentally altering how, where, and why we work.
by Jason Bird
Uncovering the Hidden Costs of Green Technologies
The War Below looks at how the race to secure critical minerals like lithium and copper is reshaping the global landscape — and challenging our vision of a sustainable future.
by Alumni Ventures
Episode #53: Three Breakthroughs: Tech and Our Brains
Back with a ‘Three Breakthroughs’ episode of the AV Tech Optimist podcast, where Mike Collins and Mike Peri as they discuss the groundbreaking development of roads that can charge your electric vehicle as you drive. This episode also highlights AI deep brain stimulation for Parkinson’s treatment and the latest advancements in remote surgery technology.
by Alumni Ventures
The Loneliness Trade
As loneliness emerges as a significant public health crisis, venture capital firms are increasingly investing in startups that are developing innovative solutions to tackle this widespread issue. A 2024 American Psychiatric Association poll revealed that nearly one-third of U.S. adults experience loneliness at least once a week, with severe consequences for mental and physical health. The U.S. Surgeon General has highlighted the link between loneliness and increased risks of heart disease, stroke, dementia, and premature death. Recognizing the magnitude of this crisis, venture capitalists are backing companies focused on mental health, community-building technologies, and elder care. These investments are not only addressing the root causes of loneliness but are also fostering a more connected and resilient society.
by Michael Collins
AV Essential Reads: Decoding the Economy’s Emotional Pulse
With her writings and a viral online presence, Gen X’s favorite economist reveals how subjective perceptions influence real-world outcomes just as much as objective data.
by Alumni Ventures
Episode #50: Three Breakthroughs: Suing the FDA: GLP-1 Makers using Chevron ruling to take on the FDA?
In the latest episode of the AV Tech Optimist podcast, ‘Three Breakthroughs’ segment, Mike Collins and Michael Peri explore three groundbreaking topics that are shaping our present and future. First, they tackle the contentious issue of litigation against the FDA, sparked by disagreements over drug classifications — a debate that could redefine pharmaceutical regulations. Next, the duo explores the role of AI in refining and implementing climate policies, highlighting its potential to sift through vast amounts of data to pinpoint effective strategies. Lastly, they address the complex relationship between technology and mental health, discussing both the challenges and opportunities it presents in combating loneliness and fostering connections. This milestone episode not only celebrates the past but also sets the stage for critical discussions on technology’s impact on society.
by Alumni Ventures
The Future of Work: Challenges and Solutions
The future of work is rapidly evolving, driven by new technologies, evolving economic conditions, and shifting societal expectations. This transition towards more adaptable, technology-focused, and employee-centered environments presents both opportunities and challenges for workers and organizations alike. Traditional jobs are undergoing significant transformations, fundamentally altering how, where, and why we work.
by Jason Bird
Uncovering the Hidden Costs of Green Technologies
The War Below looks at how the race to secure critical minerals like lithium and copper is reshaping the global landscape — and challenging our vision of a sustainable future.
by Alumni Ventures
About Us
Alumni Ventures Recognized as Top National Security VC
Big News: AV is a Top National Security VC For nearly a decade, Alumni Ventures has been quietly — but fiercely — backing America’s national capabilities. Today, we’re proud to share: AV has been named a Top National Security VC investor. Why does this matter? Which portfolio companies at AV are included? Read on — together, we’re making the U.S. stronger.
by Alumni Ventures
Alumni Ventures’ Awards & Rankings
Alumni Ventures (AV) has democratized access to professional-grade venture capital, a key asset class missing from the portfolios of many individual accredited investors. AV has received several awards from national outlets and organizations, recognizing our distinct model and the quality and breadth of our investment activity. See below to learn about some of our firm’s notable awards.
by Alumni Ventures
Alumni Ventures Named a Top Performing Venture Capital Firm
MANCHESTER, NH, MARCH 26, 2024 — Alumni Ventures (AV) has been recognized by CB Insights as one of the top 20 performing North American venture firms in 2024. The market intelligence platform selected AV — among prestigious firms such as Andreessen Horowitz (a16z), Khosla Ventures, and Accel — “based on portfolio strength and ability to predict future winners.”
by Alumni Ventures
Alumni Ventures: Our Approach to Redefining Venture Investing
Venture capital has historically only been accessible to large institutions and ultra-high-net-worth individuals. Since 2014, Alumni Ventures has democratized this high-potential asset class, raising more than $1.2 billion from 10,000+ accredited individuals. In this edition of VC 101, our executive team explains why we believe that individual investors should consider diversifying their portfolios with venture.
by Luke Antal
AV Named One of America’s Fastest-Growing Companies by Inc. Magazine
by Alumni Ventures
AI Challenge Part 1: How AV Went All-In on AI
In this op-ed, I share my vision for AV to become the most AI-powered VC in the industry and highlight our firm’s progress so far. Venture Capital Journal published this piece on June 21, 2023.
by Michael Collins
Alumni Ventures Recognized as Top National Security VC
Big News: AV is a Top National Security VC For nearly a decade, Alumni Ventures has been quietly — but fiercely — backing America’s national capabilities. Today, we’re proud to share: AV has been named a Top National Security VC investor. Why does this matter? Which portfolio companies at AV are included? Read on — together, we’re making the U.S. stronger.
by Alumni Ventures
Alumni Ventures’ Awards & Rankings
Alumni Ventures (AV) has democratized access to professional-grade venture capital, a key asset class missing from the portfolios of many individual accredited investors. AV has received several awards from national outlets and organizations, recognizing our distinct model and the quality and breadth of our investment activity. See below to learn about some of our firm’s notable awards.
by Alumni Ventures
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