The Rise by Nucleus Inside Also Capital: Mike Annunziata on Conviction, Builders, and the Future of Hard Tech
13 snips
Nov 7, 2025 Mike Annunziata, Founder and General Partner at Also Capital, shares insights from his journey in venture capital, including his time at Soros Fund Management. He discusses the essence of conviction investing and why trust is critical in partnerships. Mike highlights his portfolio of hard tech companies like Varda Space and K2, emphasizing the importance of people-first investing. He reflects on defining early-stage success through relationships and metrics, and shares his vision for the future of hard tech, focusing on building a firm with long-term impact.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Cold DM Turned Rapid First Check
- Bridget (Northwood) DM'd Mike on X and within about a week he wrote the first check.
- He then doubled down at the A and helped recruit key hires like their head of growth.
Originate By Building The Team First
- Originate deals by shaping opportunities and assembling the right follow-on partners.
- Prioritize building a founding team and keep funding until that team is right.
Value Comes From Market Secrets Not Control
- Add value by sharing market secrets that accelerate founders instead of dictating decisions.
- Help founders position their story and hire people who've already executed similar narratives.