
EUVC
VC | E470 | Joe Seager-Dupuy & Mike Martin on Building a Specialist VC Platform Around Consumer and Retail Tech | Deep Dive Episode v1
May 16, 2025
Mike Martin and Joe Seager-Dupuy, General Partners at True, tackle the importance of sector specialization in venture capital. They share their journeys from corporate venturing to focusing on consumer and retail technology. The duo elaborates on True's investment strategy, emphasizing the balance between operational experience and network engagement. They discuss emerging opportunities in the consumer market and the significant role technology plays in reshaping consumer behavior. Their insights offer a deep dive into building a successful VC ecosystem.
29:46
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Quick takeaways
- True's sector specialization in consumer and retail enhances their investment strategy, fostering deep expertise and robust corporate partnerships.
- The integrated flywheel model combines venture capital and innovation advisory, creating synergy that accelerates growth for early-stage startups.
Deep dives
Sector-Specific Focus on Consumer and Retail
A specialist investment approach in the consumer and retail sectors sets this fund apart in a crowded venture landscape. With Europe alone being home to approximately 500 million people spending around $12 trillion on goods and services annually, there is immense potential for growth. This focus allows the fund to maintain a deep expertise and extensive network that enhances value for partners and entrepreneurs alike. By working with a diverse range of startups and corporations, the fund cultivates a robust ecosystem that can adapt to shifting market dynamics.