In this compelling episode of the Venture Capital Podcast, hosts Jon Bradshaw and Peter Harris welcome Matt Curtolo, an experienced private markets investor and advisor, and Joseph Alalou, co-founder and general partner of Daring Ventures. Together, they dive into the evolving landscape of emerging managers and micro venture funds, offering firsthand perspectives on how smaller funds are carving a niche in today’s competitive venture ecosystem.

Matt shares his journey through two decades of managing billions across venture, private equity, and real estate, and discusses how emerging managers can sharpen their strategy, positioning, and fundraising efforts to succeed in a crowded market. Joseph brings a unique and inspiring story from washing cars and community college to leading a VC fund focused on diverse, underdog founders with domain expertise and conviction bias.

The conversation explores the definition and dynamics of micro VCs, the importance of authenticity and understanding one’s “right to win,” and how these smaller funds differentiate themselves by moving beyond consensus deals to uncover unique alpha-generating opportunities. They discuss the challenges of fundraising in today’s environment, including the long timelines, the critical role of operational rigor, and how early closings can build momentum and market credibility.

Matt and Joseph also tackle how AI is reshaping fundraising and fund operations, emphasizing that technology is a critical tool but human intuition, relationships, and expertise remain irreplaceable. They reflect on the maturation of the venture ecosystem, the growing interest from large funds in emerging managers, and the fundamentally relational nature of VC investing.

Listeners will gain practical advice and encouragement on navigating the complexities of emerging fund management, fundraising strategy, and embracing the future of venture capital amid rapid technological change. This episode is essential for aspiring fund managers, limited partners, and anyone interested in the future of micro VC and emerging manager innovation.

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