5 Programmes That Will Help You Break into VC
It is next to impossible to acquire formal education if one wants to kick start or accelerate a career in venture capital. That is - if you count out getting a degree in Symbolic systems at Stanford or having enough cash to learn from your mistakes.
But there are number of education platforms and programmes which cater to various sub-audiences and target groups in VC coming for help here.
Let’s have a look at my selection of the best of these out there:
1 Kauffman Fellows
This is probably THE OG educational programme in the VC space; being active for over 25 years. That comes with both pros and cons - the structure and features of the programme are highly reminiscent of a traditional MBA programme. That means - 2 year duration; highly structured curriculum, but pretty hefty fees on the other hand.
This is how the structure is explained “There are nine structured learning opportunities during the 2-year Program: 7 modules and 2 international summits. Each constantly evolving module explores an essential theme of innovation investing, with a special emphasis on leadership and self-awareness.” Fellows are required to actively participate in all 7 educational modules and both summits in order to complete the program.”
💰Fees: $80,000
✅ Apply if: you or your firm has money to spent; are US based, already have some experience in the VC industry
2 Included VC
Included is an “8 month Fellowship where aspiring venture capitalists from diverse, overlooked communities get exclusive access, education and mentorship from the best VC talent”.
The ultimate goal is to increase the number of under-represented communities within the VC industry and create effective multi-generational change; according to the programme. Content-wise; this is a high quality programme.
It is supported by roster of impressive VCs including (no pun intended) names such as Seedcamp, Notion, Creandum. Included is used to be EU-centric but is now shifting into more of a global focus - but be warned, getting in is highly competitive!
💰Fees: FREE
✅ Apply if: are trying to break into VC, are based in EU; are member of under-represented community
3 Founder Institute VC Lab
VC Lab is a free virtual program that helps new managers to launch accelerators, pre-seed, seed or Series A venture capital firms globally. It runs over 16 weeks and is natively remote. What sets this one apart is the clear focus on emerging managers; that is future GPs looking to close their first fund and help them to sharpen their thesis and put feet on the ground when it comes to closing.
The 16 week curriculum covers topics including Thesis Refinement & Validation, Fund Deck & Positioning, Fund Financials & Overview and Fund Formation & Funnel. 100% recommended if you are not just trying to break into VC; but taking a shot at setting up your own shop.
💰Fees: FREE
✅ Apply if: you are an aspiring emerging manager
4 Ventures Deals
This one is a bit different to other courses mentioned here as it is easily accessible; and all it takes to attend is your willingness to learn. This does not mean it compromises on quality of the material and content provided. The course takes its name (and curriculum structure) from one of the classic books of the VC industry which also comes highly recommended.
According to the prospectus; Venture Deals is a self-paced, “learn-by-doing”, online course that includes educational videos from diverse investors who provide real and raw advice, knowledge, and insight to raising venture capital, as well as additional resources, tools, and a course Guide to support your learning.
💰Fees: FREE
✅ Apply if: you are a self learner; want to learn at your own pace; are breaking into VC
5 VC Unlocked by Stanford / 500
VC Unlocked Is a one week long programme offered in collaboration with the Stanford Center for Professional Development, is an invite-only educational program for emerging leaders who want to shape the future of the venture capital industry.
💰Fees: $24,000
✅ Apply if: you have 24k to spend for a week at Stanford :)|
Did you take any of these programmes recently? If so please let me know if you would recommend them to others in the comments below.