Driving with Dunne Investing In Software Startups for Battery And Charging – Risks and Upsides. Marie Thompson, Partner, Powerhouse Ventures
Mar 23, 2023
This discussion features Marie Thompson, a Partner at Powerhouse Ventures, who specializes in early-stage software startups that decarbonize energy and mobility. She shares insights from her transition from oil and gas to climate-focused investing. Marie explains how software is enhancing the electric vehicle charging experience, citing companies like AmpUp that optimize user interactions. She also emphasizes the importance of a strong founding team and advocates for diverse hiring. Plus, she encourages everyday investors to consider climate-focused portfolios.
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Elevator Pitch To A Star
- Marie would tell Alex Morgan she is a climate investor who deploys capital into digital climate startups.
- She frames her role as investing other people's money into software that fights the climate crisis.
SVB Weekend Crisis Management
- During the SVB weekend Marie prioritized optionality, liquidity, and connecting startups to LPs and resources.
- She described frantic cash management, opening new accounts, and triaging startups by urgency.
From Two Cars To One In The Bay Area
- Marie sold her second car after moving to the Bay Area and now drives her husband's manual Subaru Crosstrek.
- She left a much-loved 2013 Ford Escape after a long Houston commute and sold it when demand was high.
