
Deep Tech Catalyst
Learn every week from global investors and experts how to turn your scientific discoveries into investable Deep Tech startups.
Latest episodes

Oct 25, 2024 • 29min
Dual-Use Technologies from Lab to Market: VC Insights for Deep Tech Startups. A chat with Sherman Williams, Managing Partner, and Forrest Underwood, Venture Partner, at AIN Ventures
Host: Nicola Marchese
Guest: Sherman Williams, Managing Partner at AIN Ventures
Guest: Forrest Underwood, Venture Partner, at AIN Ventures
#DeepTechCatalyst
Watch the full video on our platform!
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
1. In the U.S. and other Western nations, government entities are key investors in advanced technologies, primarily funding through grants, tax incentives, and subsidies; early-stage scientists must develop strong grant-writing skills to secure this support.
2. The DIME framework (Diplomatic, Information, Military, and Economic) helps map dual-use tech’s commercial potential, with the Economic sector presenting the largest opportunity for companies to transition from government to broader market applications.
3. Government and commercial customers seek solutions, not just technology; founders must understand varied government needs—from end users to procurement and requirements branches—to develop products that align with specific mission goals.
4. VCs look for a capable team, substantial market potential, a viable go-to-market strategy, and unique technological differentiation—essential elements that indicate a startup’s readiness for both government and commercial markets.
5. For scalable growth, founders should prioritize building, testing, and iterating while considering partnerships with prime contractors, who can play a critical role in helping startups sell to the Department of Defense.
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#dualuse #defense #startup #startups #innovation #manufacturing #vcs #venturecapital #techtransfer #deeptech #hardtech #industry #tech #strategy #founders #technology #entrepreneurship #phd #science #lab
Disclaimer: This content is provided solely for educational and informational purposes and should not be interpreted as financial or legal advice. Given the complexity and potential impact of these terms, it is crucial to consult with an attorney. Legal expertise is invaluable in navigating these technical aspects and ensuring that the terms are in your best interests before finalizing any agreements.

Oct 18, 2024 • 26min
Robotics from Lab to Market: VC Insights for Deep Tech Startups. A chat with Karthee Madasamy, Founder and Managing Partner @ MFV Partners.
Host: Nicola Marchese
Guest: Karthee Madasamy
#DeepTechCatalyst
Don't miss the full video on our platform!
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
1. The significant reduction in costs for crucial components like computing, sensors, and actuators, driven by advancements in related industries such as electric vehicles and smartphones, has made robotics more accessible and affordable.
2. The integration of advanced artificial intelligence has empowered robots to handle complex tasks and adapt to dynamic environments, enhancing their ability to perform sophisticated functions such as precise object manipulation.
3. The evolution of robotics technology has facilitated its expansion across various sectors, with a surge in the number of robotics startups worldwide indicating robust growth and technological progress within the industry.
4. Success in B2B robotics hinges on aligning technological innovations with actual customer needs, emphasizing the importance of developing solutions based on a strong, actionable value proposition that clearly addresses market demands.
5. Investors are particularly keen on startups that demonstrate a solid technical foundation and a clear technology readiness level, coupled with a market-fit solution. Additionally, successful teams blend entrepreneurial resilience, innovative problem-solving, and deep technical expertise to enhance their market entry and attractiveness to investors.
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#robotics #startup #startups #innovation #manufacturing #industry #vcs #venturecapital #techtransfer #deeptech #hardtech #industry #tech #strategy #founders #technology #entrepreneurship #phd #science #lab
Disclaimer: This content is provided solely for educational and informational purposes and should not be interpreted as financial or legal advice. Given the complexity and potential impact of these terms, it is crucial to consult with an attorney. Legal expertise is invaluable in navigating these technical aspects and ensuring that the terms are in your best interests before finalizing any agreements.

Oct 11, 2024 • 24min
From Lab to Moonshot: Strategies for Building a Scalable Startup in Advanced Materials. A chat with Tony Sun, Director of Corporate Venture Capital at GC Ventures
Host: Nicola Marchese
Guest: Tony Sun
#DeepTechCatalyst
Don't miss the full video on our platform!
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
1. Innovators can adopt a "Market Pull" approach, starting with a specific market need, or a "Technology Push" strategy, developing the technology first and finding applications later. Both pathways have unique challenges and require strategic alignment to ensure strong product-market fit.
2. To create a successful product-market fit, founders must focus on specific application needs and be prepared for a long journey. Out of many developed applications, only a few may succeed, making persistence and adaptability key to refining solutions for customer alignment.
3. In advanced materials, application spaces often consist of small, individual markets. By combining several applications, startups can expand their Total Addressable Market (TAM), which venture capitalists find attractive as it indicates a higher potential for growth and revenue.
4. Startups can benefit from developing near-term, high-margin applications to validate technology and become self-sustaining while also aiming for long-term “moonshot” applications. This dual approach supports immediate growth and prepares the company for industry-transforming, large-scale impact.
5. Navigating the complexities of the supply chain early on is essential, as positioning impacts development costs and customer reach. Continuous learning, whether through customer insights, industry events, or partnerships, ensures startups adapt to evolving trends and meet industry standards effectively.
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#materials #startup #startups #innovation #manufacturing #industry #vcs #venturecapital #cvc #corporateventurecapital #techtransfer #deeptech #hardtech #industry #tech #strategy #founders #technology #entrepreneurship #phd #science #lab
Disclaimer: This content is provided solely for educational and informational purposes and should not be interpreted as financial or legal advice. Given the complexity and potential impact of these terms, it is crucial to consult with an attorney. Legal expertise is invaluable in navigating these technical aspects and ensuring that the terms are in your best interests before finalizing any agreements.

Oct 4, 2024 • 27min
SynBio from Lab to Market: VC Insights for Deep Tech Startups. A chat with Chloë Payne, Principal @ Ponderosa Ventures
Host: Nicola Marchese
Guest: Chloë Payne
#DeepTechCatalyst
Don't miss the full video podcast on our educational platform!
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
1. SynBio is not just about genetic modification—it spans various industries, including pharmaceuticals, food technology, and even carbon credit markets. Its applications are extensive, from enhancing food flavors to revolutionizing carbon sequestration practices through innovative uses of natural systems and genetic engineering.
2. Understanding and navigating the regulatory landscape is crucial, particularly for SynBio startups in the food industry. The pace at which regulations evolve can significantly impact a company’s ability to bring new products to market, with certain regions offering more favorable conditions due to well-established regulatory frameworks.
3. Effective pricing strategies are essential for the successful market entry of new SynBio products. Startups need to balance innovation costs with market price sensitivities and explore potential value additions that could justify premium pricing.
4. Venture capitalists in synthetic biology are concerned about capital efficiency, as scaling can require significant investment in production facilities. However, startups with innovative solutions may partner with larger companies or explore less capital-intensive production methods like solid-state fermentation or plant cell cultures, allowing for more flexibility in scaling. Founders should consider these alternatives carefully to optimize their capital requirements.
5. Startups must align product development with genuine market needs and ensure they target the right investors to secure venture capital. Establishing direct communication with potential customers and understanding their needs can significantly influence product development and business strategies.
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#synbio #startup #startups #innovation #technology #manufacturing #industry #vcs #venturecapital #techtransfer #deeptech #hardtech #industry #tech #strategy #founders #technology #entrepreneurship #phd #science #foodtech #biotech
Disclaimer: This content is provided solely for educational and informational purposes and should not be interpreted as financial or legal advice. Given the complexity and potential impact of these terms, it is crucial to consult with an attorney. Legal expertise is invaluable in navigating these technical aspects and ensuring that the terms are in your best interests before finalizing any agreements.

Sep 27, 2024 • 24min
How to Approach the Semiconductor Industry: VC Insights for Deep Tech Startups. A chat with Robert Ashcraft, Investment Director @ Samsung Ventures
Host: Nicola Marchese
Guest: Robert Ashcraft
#DeepTechCatalyst
Don't miss the full video podcast on our educational platform!
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
1. Semiconductor manufacturing is a complex, multi-step process that begins with a silicon wafer. High costs, driven by automation, precision, and expensive materials, make establishing semiconductor fabs a significant investment.
2. Two critical areas shaping the future of chip design and manufacturing are advanced packaging technologies and EUV lithography, both essential for overcoming traditional limitations and enabling next-gen innovations.
3. Startups face significant challenges transitioning from academia to industry, but government support and strategic partnerships with venture capital and bridging entities can help navigate this complex landscape.
4. Leveraging institutional entrepreneurship resources, establishing relationships with open innovation groups, and utilizing government programs are essential strategies for startups to navigate corporate engagement effectively.
5. When approaching corporate partners, it’s crucial to evaluate how your innovation improves the current state of the art, assess commercialization timelines, and address business risks and costs to increase your chances of success.
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#semiconductors #fundraising #innovation #cvc #corporateventurecapital #vcs #venturecapital #techtransfer #startups #deeptech #hardtech #industry #tech #strategy #founders #technology #entrepreneurship #phd #science
Disclaimer: This content is provided solely for educational and informational purposes and should not be interpreted as financial or legal advice. Given the complexity and potential impact of these terms, it is crucial to consult with an attorney. Legal expertise is invaluable in navigating these technical aspects and ensuring that the terms are in your best interests before finalizing any agreements.

Sep 20, 2024 • 21min
From Pre-seed to Seed: Decoding Early Deep Tech Funding Stages. A chat with Dee Zheng, Managing Director @ Orca Climate Fund
Host: Nicola Marchese
Guest: Dee Zheng
#DeepTechCatalyst
Don't miss the full video podcast on our educational platform!
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
1. The funding dynamics in early-stage ventures can vary significantly by sector, particularly within climate tech. Founders should focus less on stage labels and more on leveraging their unique strengths to attract the right type of funding.
2. Pre-seed funding generally supports teams with a concept but no market-ready product, while seed rounds involve more advanced progress such as prototypes and early pilots. Technology Readiness Levels (TRL) are often used to assess a startup's maturity, especially in deep tech sectors.
3. Founders should consider multiple factors when choosing an investor, such as geographic focus, sector specialization, funding stage focus, value-added services, and the level of engagement. Understanding these factors can help founders make more strategic decisions when approaching investors.
4. At the pre-seed stage, the key focus is on demonstrating founder-market fit. Investors look for signals that show founders' awareness of the market, their strengths, and how well they understand industry challenges. Highlighting your strongest attributes is crucial.
5. In early-stage ventures, market validation is critical. Investors pay attention to the resources potential customers are dedicating to your startup. Tangible commitments, such as partnerships or resource allocation, often weigh more heavily than advisory roles or mere expressions of interest.
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#cleantech #fundraising #venturecapital #vcs #techtransfer #startups #deeptech #hardtech #industry #tech #strategy #founders #technology #entrepreneurship #phd #science
Disclaimer: This content is provided solely for educational and informational purposes and should not be interpreted as financial or legal advice. Given the complexity and potential impact of these terms, it is crucial to consult with an attorney. Legal expertise is invaluable in navigating these technical aspects and ensuring that the terms are in your best interests before finalizing any agreements.

Sep 13, 2024 • 27min
Financing and Scaling Deep Tech Startups in the Renewable Energy Sector. A chat with Roee Furman, Managing Director @ Doral Energy-Tech Ventures
Host: Nicola Marchese
Guest: Roee Furman
#DeepTechCatalyst
Don't miss the full video podcast on our educational platform!
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
1. The global energy infrastructure is undergoing a major shift towards renewable energy integration, driven by national policies. This transition opens up innovation opportunities across the value chain, from planning and optimization to management and automation.
2. While advancing through Technology Readiness Levels (TRLs) is essential, startups must also focus on commercial viability. Establishing design partnerships and proving real market demand are crucial to attracting investors and ensuring scalability.
3. Scaling clean energy startups requires considering not just financial scalability, but also commercial, engineering, and business model expansions. Entrepreneurs must envision their companies at scale early on and ensure their technologies can integrate into large-scale projects.
4. As startups move from early-stage development to more substantial financing, demonstrating bankability becomes essential. Engaging early with financiers, securing grants, and collaborating with firms that validate technology are critical steps in this process.
5. Transitioning from academic research to leading a startup presents unique challenges. Founders must develop a broad understanding of technical, regulatory, and financial aspects. Strong financial leadership, whether through a CFO or experienced CEO, is crucial for long-term success.
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#energy #renewable #cleantech #fundraising #venturecapital #corporateventurecapital #cvc #vcs #corporateventuring #techtransfer #startups #deeptech #hardtech #industry #tech #strategy #founders #technology #entrepreneurship #phd #science
Disclaimer: This content is provided solely for educational and informational purposes and should not be interpreted as financial or legal advice. Given the complexity and potential impact of these terms, it is crucial to consult with an attorney. Legal expertise is invaluable in navigating these technical aspects and ensuring that the terms are in your best interests before finalizing any agreements.

Sep 6, 2024 • 28min
How to Navigate Corporate Partnerships in Deep Tech. A chat with Dennis Clark, Investment Director @ Zeon Ventures
Host: Nicola Marchese
Guest: Dennis Clark
#DeepTechCatalyst
Don't miss the full video podcast on our educational platform!
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
1. Deep tech founders should recognize why corporations establish innovation arms or open innovation units. These entities are often set up in response to technological shifts, societal changes, and the need to rejuvenate or replace existing business models.
2. Collaborating with a corporate innovation arm provides access to valuable resources such as R&D capabilities, sales and marketing expertise, and global distribution networks. This can significantly accelerate a startup's growth and market entry.
3. Startups should engage with the right corporate divisions based on their technology's alignment with current or future needs. Understanding the perspectives of various stakeholders—such as product teams, corporate innovation units, and R&D departments—is crucial for effective collaboration.
4. Be aware of potential barriers to adoption, including lengthy evaluation processes, procurement challenges, and the specific needs of different stakeholders within the corporation. Understanding these factors can help tailor your approach and address potential obstacles.
5. Different stages of collaboration require different types of agreements. Early-stage startups may start with Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) or Joint Development Agreements (JDAs), while more developed startups might enter into licensing or off-take agreements to secure market validation and revenue.
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#corporate #innovation #fundraising #venturecapital #corporateventurecapital #cvc #vcs #corporateventuring #techtransfer #startups #deeptech #hardtech #industry #tech #strategy #founders #technology #entrepreneurship #phd #science
Disclaimer: This content is provided solely for educational and informational purposes and should not be interpreted as financial or legal advice. Given the complexity and potential impact of these terms, it is crucial to consult with an attorney. Legal expertise is invaluable in navigating these technical aspects and ensuring that the terms are in your best interests before finalizing any agreements.

Aug 30, 2024 • 25min
From Startups to LPs: Understanding the Venture Capital Value Chain in Deep Tech. A chat with Tülin Tokatli, CEO @ Pitch Me First - Former LP at EIF
Host: Nicola Marchese
Guest: Tülin Tokatli
#DeepTechCatalyst
Don't miss the full video podcast on our educational platform!
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
1. Capital flows from the largest investors at the top, such as Limited Partners (LPs) or mandators, through public investors like fund-of-funds, down to venture capital and private equity funds, and finally to startups. This structure underscores the dependency of each level on the previous for funding.
2. The entire venture capital process is driven by the need to create value for investors at each level. Successful startups not only return their investments but may become investors themselves, creating a cyclical investment pattern within the ecosystem.
3. LPs have varied investment objectives. Institutional investors may focus on policy-driven investments, like technology transfer from universities, which are essential for breakthrough innovations in Deep Tech. Meanwhile, smaller investors like family offices and angel investors have more flexibility in setting their investment preferences.
4. Effective operation of a VC fund involves aligning and incentivizing all parties involved, ensuring that both LPs and fund managers are invested in the long-term success of the fund. Proper governance and regular interaction with investors are crucial to maintaining trust and ensuring continued investment.
5. Key terms such as 'management fee' and 'carried interest' are fundamental to understanding how VC funds operate. The management fee covers operational costs, allowing fund managers to focus on investment management without financial distraction, while carried interest provides a share of the profits, incentivizing fund managers to generate high returns.
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#limitedpartners #lps #fundraising #venturecapital #cvc #vcs #corporateventuring #techtransfer #startups #deeptech #hardtech #industry #tech #strategy #founders #technology #entrepreneurship #phd #science
Disclaimer: This content is provided solely for educational and informational purposes and should not be interpreted as financial or legal advice. Given the complexity and potential impact of these terms, it is crucial to consult with an attorney. Legal expertise is invaluable in navigating these technical aspects and ensuring that the terms are in your best interests before finalizing any agreements.

Aug 23, 2024 • 16min
Term Sheet Basics for Deep Tech Startups. A chat with Samantha Huang, Principal @ BMW i Ventures
Host: Nicola Marchese
Guest: Samantha Huang
#DeepTechCatalyst
Don't miss the full video podcast on our educational platform!
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
1. A term sheet is a non-binding agreement outlining key terms (such as valuation, amount raised, and ESOP pool) between a lead investor and a startup. It is crucial for all founders seeking capital and sets the stage for final legal documents.
2. Founders should negotiate the terms of the term sheet as it will influence the final legal financing documents that govern the startup’s operations and control post-financing.
3. Founders need to be familiar with terms such as valuation, the amount raised, ESOP pool, and dilution. Understanding these terms helps in assessing their impact on ownership and control.
4. Investors may exert control through shareholder-level protective provisions and board-level veto rights. These mechanisms are designed to balance interests and influence major corporate actions.
5. Process and Timeline: After receiving a term sheet, there is usually a 30 to 45-day period for finalizing legal documents. During this time, attorneys work to formalize the terms, and the capital is transferred once the financing phase is complete.
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#termsheet #fundraising #venturecapital #cvc #vcs #corporateventuring #techtransfer #startups #deeptech #hardtech #industry #tech #strategy #founders #technology #entrepreneurship #phd #science
Disclaimer: This content is provided solely for educational and informational purposes and should not be interpreted as financial or legal advice. Given the complexity and potential impact of these terms, it is crucial to consult with an attorney. Legal expertise is invaluable in navigating these technical aspects and ensuring that the terms are in your best interests before finalizing any agreements.