Chris Sacca – Hustling to Save the Planet at Lowercarbon (Capital Allocators, EP.321)
Jun 12, 2023
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Chris Sacca, a celebrated venture investor and founder of Lowercarbon Capital, shares his inspiring journey from investing in tech giants like Twitter and Uber to tackling climate change. He discusses his humble beginnings and the evolution of his investment philosophy, focusing on decarbonization ventures. Sacca emphasizes the importance of authenticity, storytelling, and collaboration in evaluating founders and building impactful companies. He also explores innovative carbon removal strategies and the need for diversity in the entrepreneurial landscape.
Building strong relationships with founders is crucial in startup investing to assess their potential for success.
Investing in lower carbon opportunities requires a fresh approach by focusing on high-impact areas and leveraging technology for accelerated progress.
A flexible approach to investing, free from bias, allows for adaptability and identification of unique investment opportunities.
Deep dives
Importance of Building Relationships with Founders
When investing in startups, it is crucial to build strong relationships with the founders, as this is a long-term commitment. Assessing the team's ambition, values, and compatibility is essential in determining the potential for success. The goal is to find founders who have a strong belief in the growth and success of their company and can effectively communicate that vision. By getting to know the founders personally and understanding their motivations, investors can better assess the potential of the startup.
Focus on Impact and Fresh Approach
In the lower carbon investment space, taking a fresh approach and focusing on high-impact opportunities is crucial. By looking at various sources of carbon emissions, such as energy, transportation, agriculture, and the built environment, investors can identify opportunities with the potential for significant carbon reduction. The aim is to invest in companies that are already great but can be made even better, leveraging advancements in technology and computational tools to accelerate progress.
Flexibility and Adaptability in Investing Strategy
Having a flexible approach to investing allows for fresh thinking and the ability to assess each opportunity independently. Avoiding a formulaic approach ensures that bias and preconceived notions do not cloud judgment. Investors should be open to learning from each opportunity and adapt their strategy accordingly. This allows for a more nimble and agile approach that can lead to identifying unique and promising investment opportunities.
Building a Strong Brand and Network
To attract the best founders and investment opportunities, it is crucial to build a strong brand and network. By establishing a reputation as a helpful and value-adding investor, founders are more likely to seek out these investors and trust their expertise. Building relationships through networking events, speaking engagements, and creating a positive reputation can help generate a strong deal flow and ensure access to top-tier opportunities.
Driving Carbon Reduction with Unique Investments
The podcast episode discusses the host's investment strategies focused on companies that have a positive impact on carbon reduction and the environment. One key point emphasized is the importance of investing in companies that provide real carbon removal solutions, rather than relying on offset programs. They highlight their carbon removal fund, which aims to fund companies that actively remove carbon from the atmosphere. The host also emphasizes the need for a market-based approach, using capitalism to drive positive change and make a profitable impact on the planet.
Authenticity and Self-Reflection in Professional Growth
The podcast delves into the host's personal journey and lessons learned throughout his career. One key insight is the importance of being true to oneself and finding self-worth internally, rather than seeking validation externally. The host reflects on the impact of imposter syndrome and the value of embracing authenticity. They also discuss the significance of mentorship and the influence of individuals like their parents, spouse, and early mentors. Overall, the episode highlights the importance of personal growth, discovering one's values, and finding fulfillment in professional endeavors.
Chris Sacca is one of the most accomplished venture investors of the last half century. He founded Lowercase Capital in 2010 and made seed stage investments in Twitter, Uber, Instagram, Blue Bottle Coffee, and Stripe. Lowercase’s first fund famously became one of the highest returning venture funds in history and landed Chris at #2 on the Midas List in 2017. After retiring together with his wife Crystal that year, they came back to the business to found Lowercarbon Capital to fund “kickass companies that make money slashing carbon emissions.” Lowercarbon manages in excess of $2 billion of outside capital, excluding its largest investor – Chris and Crystal. Our conversation covers Chris’s humble upbringing, early entrepreneurial endeavors, and ups and downs in his early professional years. We cover his transition to Google, foundations of his investing philosophy at Lowercase, and work today at Lowercarbon. Along the way, Chris shares his sourcing of deals, evaluation of founders, and work with portfolio companies. He is a gifted storyteller and a walking case-study on grit. For full show notes, visit the episode webpage here. Learn More Follow Ted on Twitter at @tseides or LinkedIn Subscribe to the mailing list Access Transcript with Premium Membership
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