Tech Talks Investment Based on Code? Why AI is the Assistant, Not a Decision-Maker, in Inclusive VC
Nov 17, 2025
Michael Tefula, Principal and Head of Product at Ada Ventures, delves into inclusivity in venture capital, emphasizing that AI should only assist, not decide. He shares insights on utilizing proprietary tools like investment memo software and Deck Genius to discover overlooked talent and enhance pitch presentations. Michael explains the balance of technical skills in assessing startups while maintaining a human touch in investment decisions. With a focus on economic empowerment, he gives practical advice for founders seeking pre-seed funding.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
AI As Platform, Not Headline
- AI has moved from hype to a platform/co-pilot that unlocks new work on talent and product rather than dominating conversation.
- Conversations now focus on what AI enables next, not just the novelty of AI itself.
Ada Lovelace Inspires Inclusive Investing
- Ada Ventures names itself after Ada Lovelace to signal finding overlooked technical talent, especially women and underrepresented founders.
- The firm deliberately targets diverse founders and regions, keeping about half its investments with female founders.
Scarcity Shapes VC Commitment
- Ada invests in fewer than 1% of founders they meet, making selection highly selective and emotionally hard.
- Saying no often is part of delivering outsized focus and support to the small number of backed teams.