VC10X - Startups, GTM, Investing, Venture Capital, Asset Management, Private Equity, Family Office VC10X - Using Data & Algorithms To Invest In The Best Teams - Collin West, Founder, Ensemble VC
Jun 10, 2025
Collin West, Founder and Managing Partner of Ensemble VC, shares his journey of leveraging data science in venture capital. He discusses how they identify exceptional founding teams and the transformative role of AI in their investment strategies. Collin reveals the secret behind his track record with successful unicorns like Zoom and Carta, demonstrating the significance of data-driven decision-making. The conversation also touches on how their AI co-pilot enhances investment outcomes and addresses the human dynamics essential for startup success.
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Arctic Journey Teaches Team Value
- Collin West learned the critical importance of a great team from leading an Arctic Ocean crossing expedition.
- This experience inspired his data-driven venture investing approach focused on identifying exceptional founding teams.
AI Transforms Venture Investing
- Venture capital must evolve beyond handshake deals to handle 250,000 yearly global startups.
- Ensemble VC uses AI algorithms analyzing over 400 data points on individuals to proactively seek top founding teams.
Measure and Follow Talent Flow
- Evaluate startup teams by industry experience, track record, networks, and education.
- Follow talent movement between top companies to anticipate emerging industry shifts.