It is only the most fortunate of us who are both able to use their skills to benefit their home country. Luisa Sucre, Principal of Collaborative Fund is doing exactly that - she identified the growth potential in Latin America and launched the investment operations in the region at her fund. She is also one of the most active climate investors in the US and has invested in the likes of Artyc and Verne.

Luisa found her love for investing very early on in her career and has been investing for almost a decade now. In the past, she has worked with Revolution, Softbank, Endeavor, to name a few.

Key insights from the episode include:

Insight 1 -

For investors who are investing at the intersection of for-profit and for-good, they should ask themselves the following questions while making an investment decision: 

1.a: Collab Fund uses the ‘Villain Test’ to make any investment decision. The concept was introduced by the Co-founder of the fund, Craig Shapiro.

1.b: Two questions asked while applying the Villian Test:

• If this startup becomes massively successful, will it make the world a better or more interesting place?
• Would a ‘villain’ invest in this company if their motive was one of pure self­-interest? 

Insight 2 - 

In a VC fund, how to identify a new geography to launch in?

Luisa discovered Latin America by tracking the region’s large market, growing internet penetration, and emerging entrepreneurial & venture ecosystem. 

How to know when to start tracking?

Well, it helps to be from that region. 

Insight 3 -

When investing in a new geography that is not your home geography, partner with local investors as they may help with the local context and due diligence. You can co-invest and do not have to necessarily lead. 

Insight 4 -

Latin American customers (SMEs and consumers) prioritize cost savings over environmental benefits. Despite some resistance, there is a growing willingness to adopt software tools if they offer clear financial advantages. 

Insight 5 -

Investment in PhageLabs: Oh well, we will skip the investment thesis here and insist you watch the video to find out! :)

#climatetech #investing #latinamerica #womenwhowbuild.

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