The Michigan Venture Capital Association is proud to offer the Venture Fellows Program to Michigan’s venture capital community. The program, launched in 2023, is designed to increase the number of venture professionals in Michigan in order to accelerate the fundraising and deployment of capital into early-stage companies.
Since you started your fellowship, what standout achievements have you been part of and how did you contribute?
Since starting my fellowship, I have had the opportunity to contribute to several standout achievements. One of the most exciting aspects has been my involvement in two new platform investments. I participated in both pre-term sheet diligence and post-term sheet due diligence, and I’ve been actively supporting the companies since they’ve joined the portfolio. Another key contribution has been my participation in our upcoming rebrand. I’ve had the chance to help create brand assets, discuss strategy around the launch, and engage in branding and storytelling. Additionally, I played a significant role in the hiring of our interns and our newest analyst, a process that involved recruiting candidates from Michigan universities and managing the entire hiring process. All of these experiences have provided valuable opportunities to develop my skills and contribute meaningfully to the firm’s growth.
What are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced during your fellowship and how have you overcome them?
Despite these achievements, I have faced some challenges, particularly due to my transition into the venture capital industry directly after undergrad, with little direct experience to draw from. This has often felt like “drinking from a firehose,” as I constantly work to absorb new information and adapt quickly to a fast-paced environment. However, these challenges have been instrumental in pushing me to grow and develop my ability to manage complex situations and learn on the fly.
In an industry defined by endless learning, I’ve come to embrace the idea that overcoming challenges is rooted in recognizing that venture capital is an apprenticeship-based field. The key to growth lies in consistently showing up, staying curious, and building upon what I know while focusing on what I can control. I approach my role in cycles, thinking of it as working “one shift at a time,” and I continuously coach myself to give my best in each moment, knowing that this steady commitment to learning and improvement is what drives long-term success.
What have you learned about yourself or your perspective on venture capital that’s new or surprising?
I’ve always approached my business endeavors with a human-first mindset, recognizing that great business is ultimately built on strong relationships. While I’ve long considered my people skills one of my greatest strengths, it wasn’t until I entered the venture capital world that I truly appreciated how challenging it can be to teach these interpersonal skills to others and how crucial these skills are to this career.
I’ve come to realize that venture capital is not solely about financial metrics; it’s equally about understanding and connecting with people. The relationships we cultivate with entrepreneurs and fellow investors are just as critical as the data we analyze, and this understanding has deepened my appreciation for the human side of investing.
What are your career plans post-fellowship?
Looking ahead, my post-fellowship plans involve continuing to grow at Plymouth Growth. I hope to expand my network across the United States, continue making an impact at the firm, and further develop my skills in venture capital.
What have you enjoyed the most about your affiliation with the MVCA? What is your favorite MVCA event or resource?
One of the most valuable aspects of my affiliation with the MVCA, has been gaining an understanding of the players in the Michigan ecosystem and how we can collaborate to make this region a competitive investment landscape. My favorite MVCA event has been the Annual Awards Dinner, where I have enjoyed celebrating Michigan’s success stories, from firms and community builders to the companies driving innovation. It’s a wonderful opportunity to connect with others who are passionate about making Michigan a great place to build businesses.
In your last blog, we asked that besides work, what is one of your passions or aspirations. You shared that you “love everything about food.” How is food like or not like venture capital?
My passion for food continues to influence my approach to venture capital. Working in professional kitchens taught me invaluable lessons that I still apply today, such as how to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment, take initiative on projects with little direction, and navigate different personalities. While food and venture capital may seem worlds apart, both fields require creativity, adaptability, and the ability to thrive under pressure. These skills have undoubtedly helped me in my venture capital career, and I continue to draw inspiration from the lessons I learned in the kitchen.