Startup Mindsets Investing in Frontier Tech/Ai with Creative Ventures' James Wang + Book News
Dec 10, 2023
James Wang, General Partner at Creative Ventures, discusses his journey from Bridgewater Associates and Google X to venture capital. He emphasizes the significance of investing in deep tech to address critical societal issues like healthcare and climate change. Wang shares insights on the evolution of AI, the unique challenges of deep tech startups compared to traditional sectors, and the resistance faced in healthcare when introducing innovative AI solutions. The conversation reflects the contrasting dynamics between startup innovation and established tech giants.
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Macro Problems Drive Deep Tech Focus
- Creative Ventures targets technologies that address large macro problems like aging, healthcare costs, and labor shortages.
- They focus on AI, robotics, synthetic biology, and advanced materials as repeatable solution areas.
Be An Active, Empathetic Investor
- If you want to be an effective VC, combine investing judgment with operator empathy and be willing to be deeply active.
- Help portfolio companies with hiring, strategy, board work, and be the kind of investor that shows up early and often.
Eye-Tracking Neurotech Example
- James described Sealight's tech that tracks tiny eye movements to detect neurodegeneration using a laser.
- He contrasted deep-tech startups with pure software, noting limited pivot opportunities and long research paths.