Female VC Lab

• E112: Mary King: Aligned Climate Fund 2

  In this powerful episode of Female VC Lab, host Barbara Bickham sits down with Mary King, vice president at Aligned Climate Fund, to uncover how venture capital is accelerating the global clean energy transition. If you’re curious about the future of climate tech, energy innovation, and how investors are driving decarbonization, this episode is for you! Mary pulls back the curtain on Aligned Climate Fund’s investment thesis: investing in companies taking real action to decarbonize our infrastructure—including clean energy, resilient infrastructure, electric transport, and sustainable land use. You’ll hear insider stories about backing geothermal breakthroughs, innovative microgrid solutions, and the growing impact of point source carbon capture. Mary and Barbara also dive deep on challenges in climate tech VC, how AI could transform investment diligence, and why distributed energy and resilience are game changers for communities around the world. Whether you’re in the climate space, an entrepreneur, or just passionate about shaping a sustainable future, you’ll walk away with fresh insights and inspiration for what’s next in climate innovation and venture capital. Guest Information Guest Name: Mary King Bio: Mary King is vice president at Aligned Climate Fund, the venture strategy for Aligned Climate Capital. She invests in early-stage companies driving decarbonization across clean energy, resilient infrastructure, electric transport, and sustainable land use. Links: Mary King’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maryeking/ Aligned Climate Capital: https://alignedclimatecapital.com/ Episode Outline Aligned Climate Fund’s Investment Thesis Mary explains how Aligned invests in seed to Series B companies with proven climate solutions, focusing on clean energy, resilient infrastructure, and decarbonization. More about Aligned Climate Capital The Role of Emerging Technologies: Geothermal, Microgrids & Carbon Capture A look at how Aligned approaches geothermal and microgrid investments, plus insights on distributed energy and point source carbon capture for scalable climate action. Resource: What is Geothermal Energy? Resource: Distributed Energy Resources The Future of Climate Tech and VC: AI, Diligence, and Industry Shifts Mary predicts how AI will soon revolutionize VC deal flow and diligence, enabling faster, smarter investment decisions—and what this means specifically for the climate sector. Resource: AI in Venture Capital Transcript For a full transcript of this episode, visit: https://femalevclab.com About the Host: Barbara Bickham is a venture investor, technologist, and founder of Female VC Lab. She champions women in venture and spotlights game-changing leaders investing for a better future. Podcast Website: https://femalevclab.com Rate & Review on Apple Podcasts – This is the most impactful way to support the show. Review us here! Contact the show: [email protected] Follow us on social media: Instagram: @femalevclab X (formerly Twitter): @femalevclab Join the conversation: Comment on X, send us a message, or share your favorite takeaway using #FemaleVCLab. Share this episode with a friend! If you enjoyed it, tag us on social media and let us know your favorite takeaway.

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  12:19
• E111: Katelin Holloway: 776

  Episode Summary: Dive into the intriguing world of venture capital with our latest episode featuring Katelin Holloway, a founding partner at Seven Seven Six. Discover what motivated Katelin to transition from an executive operator to a venture capitalist and how her deep empathy for founders guides her investment decisions. In this episode, you'll gain insights into Seven Seven Six's unique thesis-agnostic approach and explore the dynamic shifts in the venture capital landscape. Whether you're curious about space tech, women's health tech, or AI's impact on the future of VC, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways that will keep you engaged from start to finish. Guest Information: Guest Name: Katelin Holloway Bio: Katelin Holloway is a founding partner at Seven Seven Six, a venture capital firm driven by her extensive experience as an operator and executive. With a passion for supporting founders and a focus on innovative sectors, Katelin brings a wealth of knowledge and a unique perspective to the investment landscape. Links: LinkedIn, X - formerly Twitter Episode Outline: 1. Transition to Venture Capital Katelin discusses her journey from being an executive to a venture capitalist, fueled by her desire to scale her impact by supporting multiple companies as an investor. 2. Thesis-Agnostic Investment Strategy Explore how Seven Seven Six’s thesis-agnostic approach allows them to invest in diverse sectors, focusing on the best founders and innovative ideas. 3. The Future of Venture Capital and AI Discover how AI is reshaping the venture capital ecosystem and Katelin’s insights on leveraging AI to create impactful investments and operational efficiencies. Community & Calls to Action: Rate & Review on Apple Podcasts – Your feedback helps us shine! Rate Here Follow us on social media for the latest updates: X (formerly Twitter): @FemaleVCLab Join the conversation and share your thoughts on this episode using the hashtag #FemaleVCLab. Share it with a friend, and let us know your favorite takeaway!

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  10:07
• How Marcia Dawood Empowers Women in Venture Capital

  Empowering Women in Venture Capital: The Journey of Marcia Dawood Marcia Dawood is not just a name in the venture capital world; she is a beacon of hope and empowerment for women entrepreneurs across the globe. As a venture partner at Mindshift Capital, Marcia's mission revolves around elevating women-led innovation in sectors that matter, such as health tech, fintech, edtech, and food tech. This blog post delves into her journey, her investment thesis, and the essential changes needed in the venture capital landscape to foster diversity and inclusion. From Angel Investing to Venture Capital Marcia's venture into the investment world began about twelve years ago when she attended an angel investing meeting. Initially unaware of what angel investing entailed, she quickly grasped the innovative potential around her. However, she was struck by a sobering realization: the lack of funding for women entrepreneurs. This pivotal moment inspired her to join various funds, contributing as an investor and member of investment committees. Marcia's passion for supporting women-led businesses led her to co-found Mindshift Capital with her colleague Heather Henyan. Their goal? To invest in women-led companies globally, creating a ripple effect of change and innovation. The Investment Thesis at Mindshift Capital Marcia's investment thesis is rooted in the belief that women-led companies can drive significant change in the world. Mindshift Capital focuses on four key areas: health tech, fintech, edtech, and food tech. These sectors are not just trends; they represent the future of innovation and societal improvement. Global Trends in Investment Marcia highlights a fascinating trend: many entrepreneurs seeking funding often look to the U.S. to commercialize their innovations. This phenomenon is colloquially referred to as "all roads lead to Delaware." U.S. investors can sometimes be hesitant to invest in foreign companies due to unfamiliar tax implications. However, Marcia and her team have successfully navigated these complexities, allowing them to invest in promising companies at lower valuations while providing valuable support for their growth. Understanding Money: A Personal Journey Marcia is currently fascinated by the mindset surrounding money and how it affects people's willingness to invest. She believes that if more individuals understood the potential for positive change through investment, the landscape of entrepreneurship would look vastly different. Many people still perceive investing as an exclusive domain for the wealthy and well-connected. To address this gap in understanding, Marcia launched her podcast, The Angel Next Door, aimed at demystifying angel investing and making it accessible to everyone. She also authored the book Do Good While Doing Well, which discusses how individuals can invest in impactful companies while also achieving financial returns. The Educational Gap in Investing Marcia observes that women often donate money, while men are more inclined to invest. This discrepancy highlights a significant educational gap. Many women are willing to invest but may lack the confidence or knowledge to do so. Conversations about investing need to be normalized and encouraged, ensuring that women feel invited into the investment room. The Future of Venture Capital When envisioning the future of venture capital, Marcia sees a movement toward democratizing private investing. The SEC's 2016 rule change allowed for equity crowdfunding, enabling more people to invest with smaller amounts, starting from as little as $50. This shift has the potential to create a more inclusive investment landscape. Marcia believes that just as public markets have evolved to become more accessible, private investing can follow suit. The rise of platforms like Robinhood has already changed how people engage with the stock market, and similar changes can be expected in venture capital. Expanding Definitions of Accredited Investors Another critical aspect of the future of venture capital involves redefining what it means to be an accredited investor. Marcia sits on an advisory committee to the SEC, where discussions surrounding the definition of accredited investors are ongoing. She argues that expanding this definition and providing more education will allow a broader range of individuals to participate in venture capital, ultimately leading to systemic change. Resources for Aspiring Investors Marcia's website, marciadawood.com, is a treasure trove of resources for aspiring investors. Visitors can access free materials, including the first chapter of her book and worksheets designed to guide new investors. Her podcast episodes cover various topics related to equity crowdfunding and fundraising, making them valuable for both entrepreneurs and potential investors. Frequently Asked Questions What inspired Marcia to focus on women-led companies? Marcia's journey began when she realized the significant underfunding of female entrepreneurs despite their innovative potential. This motivated her to create opportunities for women-led businesses through her work at Mindshift Capital. How can someone become an angel investor? Anyone interested in becoming an angel investor can start by educating themselves through resources like Marcia's podcast, The Angel Next Door, and her book, Do Good While Doing Well. Additionally, joining local angel groups or crowdfunding platforms can provide valuable insights and networking opportunities. What are the key sectors Mindshift Capital focuses on? Mindshift Capital primarily invests in health tech, fintech, edtech, and food tech, aiming to support companies that are making a meaningful difference in the world. How does Marcia see the future of venture capital evolving? Marcia envisions a more democratized venture capital landscape, where private investing becomes accessible to a broader audience. She believes that changes in regulations and educational initiatives will facilitate this shift. Conclusion Marcia Dawood's journey from angel investing to becoming a venture partner at Mindshift Capital is a testament to her commitment to empowering women-led businesses. Her work not only fosters innovation but also encourages a more inclusive investment landscape. By breaking down barriers and providing resources, Marcia is paving the way for the next generation of investors and entrepreneurs. For more insights and resources, be sure to check out her website and tune into her podcast!

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  10:06
• CES 2025: What's Next for Smart Cities: AI for Data, Planning and Beyond

  Female VC Lab Show Notes Episode Title and Number: CES2025: What's Next for Smart Cities - AI for Data, Planning, and Beyond Name of Session: What's Next for Smart Cities: AI for Data, Planning and Beyond Date and Time: Tuesday, January 7, 2025 at 3:00 PM Location: Las Vegas Convention Center North - N257 Session Description: The rise of AI-powered Smart Cities is significant. Learn from early adopters who have seen AI capabilities become notable force multipliers in our smartest cities. Full Panel: David Shier, Managing Director, Visionary Future (Moderator) Sheri Bachstein, CEO, The Weather Company Barbara Bickham, Founder & GP, Trailyn VC Nadia Hansen, Global Digital Transformation Executive, Salesforce Prachi Vakharia, ARPA-I: Strategic Advisor for Innovations & Infrastructure, USDOT Episode Summary: In this episode, we dive into the transformative potential of AI in developing smart cities, as discussed in a CES 2025 panel. The conversation covers aspects ranging from extreme weather prediction to citizen-centric services and the ethical implications of AI in urban governance. Key Points Discussed: The role of AI in predicting extreme weather and urban design Probabilistic forecasting and its benefits for emergency preparedness The concept of citizen-centric smart cities for enhanced public participation Challenges in data standardization and the importance of public-private partnerships Ethical considerations, including bias and privacy concerns in AI technologies Timecode Guide: 00:00:04 - Introduction to smart cities and AI 00:00:38 - Discussion about extreme weather prediction with AI 00:01:53 - Explanation of probabilistic forecasting 00:03:09 - Concept of citizen-centric smart cities 00:04:47 - Data challenges and public-private partnerships 00:08:09 - Ethics, transparency, and public education on AI 00:11:01 - Challenges with AI model sizes and limited data 00:17:40 - Privacy concerns in smart cities 00:18:45 - Ensuring AI doesn't perpetuate bias 00:20:02 - Discussion on potential job losses and new opportunities 00:21:09 - Misuse of AI by authoritarian governments 00:22:25 - Weather strategy in the era of climate change 00:25:27 - Collaboration and human-centered AI 00:27:45 - Future vision for smart cities Full Topic Guide: The Future of Smart Cities: Harnessing AI for a Better Urban Life Introduction: As we stand on the brink of an AI-driven transformation in urban living, the CES 2025 panel offers an enlightening glimpse into how next-gen technologies are being leveraged to create smarter, more resilient cities. Hosts Daniel and Barbara Bickham review these discussions, stressing the interplay of data, AI, and human insight in shaping the future. AI in Predicting Extreme Weather: One of the most compelling highlights was the role of AI in weather prediction and urban planning. As climate change leads to unpredictable weather patterns, AI provides a way to prepare for unprecedented events. AI's capacity to analyze vast amounts of climate data allows for effective "what if" scenario modeling, enabling cities to design infrastructure that can withstand extreme conditions. For example, you might reinforce a seawall today based on AI predictions of future storms. Probabilistic Forecasting: Advancements in probabilistic forecasting were another exciting point discussed. Unlike traditional methods, probabilistic forecasting uses AI to run thousands of scenarios, providing a range of potential outcomes rather than a single prediction. This not only improves weather accuracy but also aids in emergency preparedness, allowing cities to allocate resources more efficiently and preempt disasters, thereby saving lives and reducing costs. Citizen-Centric Smart Cities: The concept of making cities more user-friendly for residents drew considerable attention. Imagine all city services being available through a single app—reporting potholes, paying taxes, or even participating in local governance through blockchain-enabled voting systems. This not only simplifies interactions with municipal services but also empowers citizens by giving them a direct say in urban management. Data Challenges and Public-Private Partnerships: However, the transition to smart cities is fraught with challenges, particularly in data management. Cities gather massive amounts of data, but these are often trapped in silos, hindering a comprehensive overview. Collaboration through public-private partnerships is vital here. Government bodies possess critical data, while private enterprises offer the technological expertise to process and utilize this information effectively. Examples like the Weather Company's collaborations with NOAA and NVIDIA highlight the potential of these partnerships. Ethical and Transparency Considerations: The panel stressed the ethical implications of integrating AI into city management. Trust and transparency are crucial for citizen buy-in. There needs to be a concerted effort to educate both government officials and the public on AI. Moreover, it's important to ensure that AI systems are fair and do not perpetuate existing biases. Implementing strong ethical guidelines and having diverse teams develop these technologies can mitigate potential risks. Privacy Concerns: With vast amounts of data being collected, privacy is a significant concern. Clear rules on data collection, use, and access are necessary to prevent misuse. Enabling citizens to control their data and ensuring transparency about how it is used are steps toward this goal. Conclusion: The future of smart cities depends not just on technological advancements but on collaborative, human-centered approaches. As we navigate this transformation, the focus must remain on using technology to enhance, not hinder, urban life. Notable Quotes from the Hosts: "It's about giving people the tools and the knowledge to be active participants in shaping the future of their cities." "We need to be mindful of the potential consequences of AI on jobs, privacy, and equality." Fun Facts or Interesting Tidbits: People were more interested in searching for inmates in jail rather than marriage licenses on the redesigned Clark County website. A project in Massachusetts involved transit maps from the 1970s, highlighting the need to update and digitize old data for modern use. Stay engaged with the conversation on how AI and technology are transforming our cities. Feel inspired? Share your ideas on how we can build a smarter, more inclusive future for our urban environments. Follow us on social media and subscribe to our newsletter for more updates and deep dives into the latest technological trends.

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  31:57
• E108: Liz Kukka: Purpose Impact Lending Fund

  Exploring Innovative Funding Structures for Affordable Housing: Insights from Liz Kuka Welcome back to the Female VC Lab Podcast! In our latest episode, we had the pleasure of speaking with Liz Kuka, CEO of Purpose for Profit. Liz shared her unique perspective on venture capital, affordable housing, and the innovative funding structures her organization is pioneering. Who is Liz Kuka? Name: Elizabeth Kuka Title: CEO Fund: Purpose for Profit The Motivation Behind Venture Capital When asked what inspired her to become a venture capitalist, Liz succinctly stated, “Money makes the world go round.” She believes in deploying capital to projects that can create real change, empowering people to bring their visions to life. Purpose for Profit: A New Approach to Funding What is Purpose for Profit? Purpose for Profit operates as a tokenized lending fund, focusing on providing below-market-rate loans to businesses that are developing affordable mixed-income housing. Here’s how it works: Funding Mechanism: Individuals can purchase tokens, with 85% of the funds raised being deployed to loans for affordable housing projects. Types of Loans: The fund starts with construction bridge loans, addressing a significant gap in the market where traditional lending often falls short. Transparency and Accessibility Liz emphasized the importance of transparency in fund management. By leveraging blockchain technology, Purpose for Profit aims to provide: Real-Time Reporting: Unlike traditional funds that may take months to generate reports, stakeholders can access real-time data on asset management and loan progress. Simplified Investment: Instead of navigating complex legal documents, participants can engage through a straightforward token purchase backed by smart contracts. Addressing Challenges in Affordable Housing Liz pointed out that many nonprofits struggle with fundraising and face donor burnout. She highlighted the potential of cryptocurrency, which currently exceeds $3 trillion in market capitalization, to create new funding streams for affordable housing initiatives. Why Focus on Affordable Housing? Liz believes that safe and affordable housing is a crucial determinant of economic stability and educational outcomes. She noted that: Housing Impacts Life: Without a safe place to live, individuals face significant barriers to education and health, affecting their overall quality of life. Philanthropic Support: While many philanthropic efforts focus on education, Liz advocates for equal attention to housing as a foundational element of community well-being. The Future of Venture Capital Looking ahead, Liz predicts that venture capital will evolve significantly in the next two years. Key trends to watch include: Rise of Digital Assets: As younger investors become increasingly involved, the use of digital assets will lead to faster capital deployment and liquidity. Need for Education: With new money entering the market, there will be a heightened need for education on due diligence and risk management to ensure informed investment decisions. How to Connect with Liz Kuka Interested in learning more about Purpose for Profit or connecting with Liz? Here are the best ways to reach out: Website: Purpose for Profit Email: [email protected] LinkedIn: Find Liz on LinkedIn for professional networking. Twitter: Follow her on Twitter at @venture_this. Conclusion Thank you for joining us in this insightful conversation with Liz Kuka on the Female VC Lab Podcast. Her innovative approach to funding affordable housing through Purpose for Profit is a testament to the power of combining technology with social impact. Stay tuned for more episodes where we continue to explore the intersection of venture capital and meaningful change!

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  10:58

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