Democratizing Access to Venture Capital Education

VC University provided the knowledge and connections I needed to break into the VC world. The structured approach and mentorship program were like having a trusted relative in venture, offering guidance every step of the way, ensuring I was on the right path to success. My experience with VC University has gotten me to where I am today in my career.

VC University was crucial to my development as a professional space technologies investor. The program provided invaluable knowledge, a supportive network, and resources that would have been otherwise inaccessible as I transitioned into venture capital. Inspired to give back to the community, I mentor industry newcomers and actively engage with aspiring and seasoned VC peers.

VC University was instrumental in my understanding of the VC landscape and enhancing my technical skills, from understanding complex cap tables to analyzing non-standard term sheets. I gained invaluable insights into fund management and relationship building. The program’s emphasis on practical exercises and networking opportunities, including the mentorship program, has continued to benefit me in my career.

VC University guided me on my transition from strategic consulting to venture capital. I was drawn to the program’s scholarship aspect, which provided mentorship and close engagement with VC investors. In addition to the networking, I gained knowledge of technical skills I use today, ranging from how to navigate equity deals, cap tables, and underwriting. I also love the program’s efforts promoting greater representation in VC community, which just added to the overall experience.

VC University is a fantastic program and prepared me for my journey into venture capital with industry guidance and actionable day-to-day insights. VC University’s inclusive approach and diverse community made it possible for individuals like me, who didn’t fit the typical mold, to thrive. I’m proud to have been part of a program that values representation and fosters opportunities for all.

Joining VC University was important for me because it was the first time I felt truly represented in the industry, particularly among women and people of color. The peer-to-peer community of fund managers, coupled with amazing mentorship and resources, has been instrumental in building my network, especially as a non-coastal investor and entrepreneur in Denver. I’m grateful for the mentorship, office hours, and course content provided by VC University, which have all contributed to my professional growth and success.

VC University drew on knowledge from a range of investors and lawyers to build a rigorous course on company formation and development. The curriculum balanced technical information with legal aspects of company formation (IP protection, fiduciary duties, etc.), and was complemented by lunch and learns with industry leaders. I was fortunate to take the course with a number of colleagues; going through the course with a team made it all the more fun!

The course was a valuable learning experience because it challenged my thinking regarding venture capital finance principles. I have really improved my knowledge in this field. I like how it enabled me to interact with staff, fellow students, and our designated mentors, and the relationships I have maintained post-course have been invaluable. It has also given me the confidence to pursue opportunities in venture capital, which have already proved fruitful.

VC University was a life-changing experience for me. The program brought my knowledge, skills, and passion for the startup and investing ecosystem to the next level. With skills and insight obtained while attending VC University, I was able to advance my career and eventually get hired by one of my dream jobs. If you’re waiting to apply, stop hesitating! Jump in. This program is absolutely worth it.

VC University gave me the tools to understand venture and startup financing in a relatable way. As former Director of LatinSF, I worked with 100+ Latin American startups raising funds in the Bay Area. I had empirical knowledge of the process, but zero academic understanding. The legal, technical, and fund nuance info I needed were covered through the course curriculum plus the invaluable office hours and lunch sessions held by top-notch VC’s. They addressed my real industry questions I couldn’t find in podcasts or books.

I earned a scholarship to attend, because of the opportunity granted by Venture Forward, and I was able to meet lifelong peers, connect with the speakers, make my voice heard in discussion rooms, and learn from industry leaders.

This is a great primer for the complex VC ecosystem! I would recommend it to anyone working in VC or in a startup.

VC University LIVE is an excellent foundational introduction to the world of VC. Led by world-class VCs, instructors, and founders, the course strikes the right balance between the practical and theoretical to demystify the industry.