In this episode, Harry, Colin, and Riley Rodgers have a detailed discussion moderated by Halle Kaplan-Allen from Sydecar. They explore the complexities and advantages of SPV investment structures. Each brings their unique perspective: Harry, known for his work with The Rideshare Guy and his mobility-focused angel investments; Colin, the founding partner of Yonder VC with a focus on early-stage marketplaces; and Riley, who has successfully transitioned from smaller SPVs to larger funds at Valia Ventures. Together, they share their journeys, insights into the venture capital landscape, and the strategies they use to leverage SPVs for successful investments.
This episode was originally recorded as part of a webinar series for EVCA (Emerging Venture Capitalists Association), a nonprofit dedicated to supporting the next generation of VC investors.
You can follow EVCA on Linkedin and their blog to learn more.
Wannabe Angels, begin your venture capital career with Sydecar--the go-to platform for those new to managing SPVs and funds. Sydecar is on a mission to make private markets more accessible, transparent, and liquid by standardizing how investment vehicles are created and executed.
To learn more, visit Sydecar's Wannabe Angels page: https://www.sydecar.io/wannabeangels
Riley brings his extensive experience to the table, having successfully transitioned from smaller SPVs to managing larger funds at Valia Ventures. His background includes working with early-stage investments and navigating the challenges of scaling investment strategies. Throughout the discussion, Riley shares his expertise in fund management, the transition from small SPVs to larger funds, and the strategies that have driven his success. He provides valuable insights on identifying high-potential startups, the importance of founder-market fit, and managing relationships with LPs. Riley also offers advice for aspiring venture capitalists and angel investors, drawing from his extensive experience in building and scaling innovative companies.
Where to Listen and Watch:
Apple -
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Segments:
1:30 Intros
3:35 Why Use SPVs?
4:08 Background for Valia Ventures
5:20 Colin’s SPV experience
6:30 Harry’s SPV experience
8:55 Some benefits of SPVs
13:24 Setting up SPVs for success
26:46 Challenges with SPVs
39:30 Targeting deals
42:13 SPV Fees and Structures
50:40 Hybrid Approach with SPVs and Funds
55:55 Closing Remarks
Links to Additional Info:
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About Harry: Harry Campbell runs The Rideshare Guy, a popular community for drivers and gig workers. He’s an active angel investor having invested over $500k of personal funds in 30+ companies and funds over the past few years, still trying to figure it all out though! Harry also has a $500k mini-fund that invests in early stage mobility, logistics, marketplaces and his network.
Interested in learning about some of the companies Harry is angel investing in and read his deal memos, for FREE - just fill out this form - https://forms.gle/eYwtDE7p9K2bepnF8\
Harry LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/harrygcampbell/
Harry Twitter - https://twitter.com/TheRideshareGuy
About Colin: Colin Gardiner has spent over a decade building startups focusing on online marketplaces. Most recently, he worked for Outdoorsy as Chief Revenue Officer. He advises marketplace/platform startups on growth, analytics, monetization, fundraising, and strategy. He also runs the rapidly growing syndicate Yonder Ventures, which invests in marketplaces and platforms and the SaaS, Fintech, Insurtech, and the technology enabling them.
Colin LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/colingardiner/
Colin Twitter - https://twitter.com/ColinGardiner
SPV Strategies and Insights Webinar Recording: Harry, Colin, & Riley Rodgers [Ep 39]