#117 - Early Stage Hiring Decisions, Heeding the Lessons from CleanTech 1.0, Energize's $300m Growth Fund Close, & More w/ Eileen Waris (Energize Capital)

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(CoHost.AI write-up)

Ever wondered how a high school Spanish teacher can ignite a passion for sustainability that leads to a thriving career in venture capitalism? Our guest, Eileen Weiris from Energize Capital, shares this intriguing narrative and much more. We chat about the exciting growth of sustainability initiatives and the critical role that software and digital solutions play in the face of climate change. Eileen also takes us through her journey at Energize Capital, from their transition from Energize Ventures to their $300 million close of their second growth fund.

The climate tech space is evolving rapidly, and with it comes a plethora of investment opportunities. Eileen provides us with a fascinating insight into Energize Capital's investment strategy, focusing on the importance of relationship building, networking, and the traits they look for in a company when investing. Also, we discuss Energize Capital's commitment to climate software and the different verticals they’re investing in, from renewable energy and electric vehicles to software solutions for carbon accounting and decarbonization.

But the discussion doesn't stop there. Eileen imparts some practical advice for climate tech founders and VCs. She emphasizes the importance of clear and concise pitches to investors and shares her perspective on how resilience and adaptation are crucial in the current climate scenario. If you're an entrepreneur looking to make a mark in the climate tech space or an investor eager to invest in the sector, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in and join us in this enlightening discussion about the intersection of climate tech and venture capitalism.

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In this episode Silas Mahner (@silasmahner) and Eileen Waris (@eileen_waris) have a conversation about her experience, what they are doing at Energize Capital (FKA Energize Ventures), the state of climate tech VC, advice to founders, and a lot more.

We had the pleasure to speak with them on the day they changed their name and announced the close of their second growth fund ($300m)

Reach out to Eileen: ewaris@energizecap.com

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Links:

* Electrifying Everything 2023: https://www.energizecap.com/news-insights/electrifying-everything-2023-edition-2

* Connect with Eileen: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eileen-waris-98632564/

* Energize Capital Website: https://www.energizecap.com/

* Check out our Sponsor, NextWave Partners: https://www.next-wavepartners.com/

* Follow CleanTechies on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/clean-techies/

* HMU on Twitter: @Silasmahner

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