Chicago Booth Review Podcast How to Become a Venture Capitalist
Jan 7, 2026
Scott Meadow, a clinical professor and venture-capital expert, shares insights on breaking into the venture capital industry. He discusses the challenges of landing a first job, emphasizing the importance of relevant experience. Scott suggests gaining sector expertise in operations rather than jumping straight into VC after an MBA. He outlines a strategy for targeting firms and portfolio companies and highlights the value of working with serial entrepreneurs. Additionally, he encourages reaching out to CEOs with valuable research to build connections.
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VC Requires Deep Sector Focus
- Venture capital roles now demand narrow, sector-specific expertise rather than generalist backgrounds.
- Scott Meadow reframes entry as "earning the right to be hired" by becoming that expert first.
Work At Well-Financed Portfolio Firms
- Choose portfolio companies financed by top venture firms to reduce personal career risk and ensure runway stability.
- Prioritize safety first by avoiding early-stage startups without strong VC backers when starting your VC path.
Use A Three-Column Targeting Funnel
- Build a funnel: list top VC firms, identify their portfolio companies you can add value to, then target those run by serial entrepreneurs.
- Narrow 25 firms to 15–20 companies, then to 3–5 managed by repeat founders for best learning and hiring prospects.