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VCs Hire Influencers to Find Next Generation of Founders
6 Aug
Summary
- Venture firms increasingly use creators to build early trust with founders.
- Lightspeed Venture Partners hired creator Claire Zau for deal sourcing.
- The trend questions if 'creator-investor' is a new VC function.
Venture capital firms are evolving their strategies by enlisting creators to establish trust with emerging founders before any investment occurs. This approach has seen significant traction, notably with a16z acquiring Erik Torenberg's Turpentine podcast and OpenAI's acquisition of TBPN.
Lightspeed Venture Partners recently appointed Claire Zau, a seed investor with a substantial social media following, to identify potential deals. Zau will also co-host Lightspeed's new show, Lightwork, alongside CMO Josh Machiz.
This development prompts discussions on whether the 'creator-investor' is becoming a distinct and recognized function within venture capital or if it remains an experimental strategy for firms.
