Cohort Series

An MBA can be a game-changer or an unnecessary detour—this session is for VCs weighing whether business school is worth it. We’ll discuss how an MBA affects long-term career prospects in venture, how firms and LPs perceive the degree, and whether stepping away from investing for two years makes sense. Attendees will get insights into application strategies, securing strong recommendations, and how to best position themselves for post-MBA reentry into the venture ecosystem.

Many VCs consider stepping out of investing and into building—but what does that transition really look like? In this session, we’ll explore how venture investors-turned-founders leverage their experience, network, and insights to launch companies, as well as the challenges they face shifting from investor to operator. We’ll discuss fundraising as a former VC, navigating signaling risks, and what surprises people the most when they move from backing startups to running one.

Some investors find themselves drawn to the operational side—whether within a portfolio company, another startup, or inside their firm. This session will cover how VCs can transition into operating roles, what skill sets translate well, and how firms view operational experience when considering future partners. We’ll also discuss trade-offs between staying on the investment side and making the shift into hands-on execution.

Launching a fund is a defining career move for many VCs—but what does it take to pull it off? This session will dive into the realities of spinning out, raising capital, and building a differentiated investment strategy. We’ll cover what it takes to secure LP commitments, how to navigate the financial risks, and what emerging managers wish they had known before launching their first fund.

For principals aiming for a partner seat, the path isn’t always clear. This session will focus on what it takes to make the leap—how firms evaluate principals for partnership, which skills and contributions matter most, and how to navigate firm dynamics to secure a spot at the table. Expect candid insights on what accelerates career progression and what pitfalls to avoid on the journey to partnership.

Serving on a board is one of the most influential roles a VC can take on, but excelling in the position requires more than just showing up to meetings. This session will dive into how investors can elevate their board presence—focusing on developing stronger operator relationships, adding real strategic value, and knowing when to step in versus step back. We’ll also cover how expectations change as you move from observer to full director, common pitfalls that weaken board effectiveness, and how to build a reputation as a high-impact board member that founders actually want in the room.

Making a lateral move in venture isn’t always straightforward—firm cultures, investment philosophies, and compensation structures vary widely. This discussion will explore how to evaluate whether a move makes sense, how to position yourself as a strong candidate, and the best ways to navigate conversations with current and prospective firms. We’ll also touch on timing considerations, how to manage relationships throughout the process, and what factors actually drive long-term career acceleration when switching firms.

Breaking into venture straight out of school or early in your career presents unique challenges—learning the craft without prior operational or investing experience, building credibility with founders and partners, and figuring out how to add value when you don’t yet have a deep network. This session will focus on strategies for accelerating learning, avoiding common early-career missteps, and positioning yourself for long-term success. Expect practical advice on building relationships, earning deal experience, and standing out in a field where many investors come in with prior industry expertise.

Corporate venture operates differently from traditional institutional VC, with distinct incentives, investment goals, and career trajectories. This discussion will cover how to build a successful career within CVC, navigate internal stakeholders, and maximize impact while working within a corporate structure. We’ll also explore how CVC experience is perceived by traditional venture firms, what factors determine whether transitioning between the two makes sense, and how to position yourself for the best long-term opportunities—whether inside or outside corporate venture.