This Week in Startups How to manage competing portfolio companies (VC School) + Energy Impact Partners' Shayle Kann (Climate) | E1448
May 1, 2022
Shayle Kann, a partner at Energy Impact Partners and host of the podcast Catalyst, dives into the critical theme of deep decarbonization. He discusses the importance of innovative climate solutions and the evolving carbon management industry. With a background in psychology, Shayle shares insights on the challenges climate startups face. The conversation also explores the intersection of venture capital and climate tech, revealing investment opportunities and strategies essential for addressing climate change.
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Episode notes
Handling Competing Companies
- VCs shouldn't invest in direct competitors due to potential conflicts of interest.
- Separate board members and establish a "Chinese Wall" to manage information flow if portfolio companies become competitors.
Pre-Investment Research
- VCs can meet with multiple companies in the same vertical before investing.
- Share relevant public information with founders, but avoid directly sharing competitor decks.
Declining Competitors
- Politely decline further discussions if you choose one competitor over another.
- Don't disclose your choice, as announcing fundraising is the invested company's responsibility.
