So many people idealize Venture Capital. They equate investing money to power, when in fact, it is the exact opposite.
Venture Capital is a responsibility. Traditionally, 98% or more of the capital in a VC fund belongs to outside investors. These investors are foundations, pensions, endowments, strategic minded businesses, families and individuals. They have entrusted the partners of a VC Fund to be good stewards of their capital and do everything in their power to bring them a strong return.
In most cases, a VC Fund will align ahead of time with investors on a vision, a goal or the impact they seek to make.
That's it. The aligned vision and goal of returns are what governs all decisions. The Venture Capitalist isn't inherently powerful. They are merely a tool for investors and founders.
Being a Venture Capitalist is an honor. An honor that investors have entrusted you with their capital, and founders who have given you the opportunity to build together.
Words like honor and opportunity aren't about false humility. They are reality. Look through the mirage of perceptions of power and decide the type of person you want to be. Not just what side of the table you want to sit on, but on the real reasons you want to sit there.
I am grateful every day that Marcos Fernandez, Drew Glover and Caitlin Keep have chosen this path at Fiat Ventures for the right reasons. They along with the entire team at Fiat Growth are builders who do not take our responsibilities or opportunities lightly, and consistently rise to the occasion.
