Recast Capital Launches New Cohort for Emerging Fund Managers
Recast Capital, a pioneering platform dedicated to supporting emerging managers in the venture capital field, has unveiled its second cohort for the Accelerate Program. This program is uniquely designed to elevate the success of funds led by women and non-binary individuals, offering them essential resources, educational content, and a strong network of support.
Empowering Diverse Fund Leaders
Launched in early 2023, the Recast Accelerate Program aims to help diverse managers effectively raise and operate funds of high institutional quality. Each selected fund benefits from resources such as executive coaching, professional development, and financial support of $100,000, all geared toward enhancing their operational capabilities.
Details of the Fall 2024 Cohort
The latest cohort welcomes general partners (GPs) from 25 different funds. Notably, every fund participating has at least one GP who identifies as a woman or non-binary. Additionally, there’s a rich diversity among participants, with 28% identifying as Black, 20% as Asian, 4% as LatinX, 12% as LGBTQIA+, and 32% as first-generation US citizens. The focus areas of these funds encompass various sectors, including ClimateTech, Artificial Intelligence, FinTech, and Health and Wellness.
Highlighting Participants in the Accelerate Program
The second cohort features an array of talented individuals from notable funds:
- Emily McMahan & Sherman Williams - AIN Ventures
- Leslie Harwell & Karla Mora - Alante Capital
- Jessie Lam & Toan Huynh - Alinea Ventures
- Anna Garcia - Altari Ventures
- Holly Neiweem - Apprentis Ventures
- Bonita Stewart & Jackson Georges Jr. - BAG Ventures
- Margaret Coblentz & Dawn Dobras - Capital F
- Ashley Mayer - Coalition Operators
- Molly Fowler - Dorm Room Fund
- Tatijana Janko - Fjor
- Jess Lynch & Greg Raiz - FoundersEdge
- Cvic Innocent - Frankenbuild Ventures
- Virginie Raphael - FullCircle
- Alexandria Lafci - Hometeam Ventures
- Maggie Kenefake - Iron Prairie Ventures
- Molly Mielke - Moth Fund
- Allison Stern - Mother Ventures
- Helen Min - Phenomenal Ventures
- Sophie Purdom - Planeteer Capital
- Alexis Ji - Primer Ventures
- Sarah Niyogi & Somrat Niyogi - Recall Capital
- Caroline Lewis - Rogue Women's Fund
- Sarah Smith - Sarah Smith Fund
- Sheena Jindal & Kyle Richless - Sugar Free Capital
- Terri Burns - Type Capital
Selection Committee Insights
The review process for this cohort was undertaken by an esteemed selection committee composed of limited partners experienced in working with emerging managers. Having a diverse cohort intends to enhance resources available to each fund, such as operational templates and investor relations resources, thereby supporting managers more holistically.
Commitment to Inclusion and Growth
Leaders of the Recast Capital program, Courtney McCrea and Sara Zulkosky, express their enthusiasm for the cohort’s potential impact. They emphasize that simply increasing the number of diverse GPs is insufficient; the program's mission extends to fostering real success among these managers.
Partnerships and Future Directions
Support from organizations like Pivotal Ventures, along with event sponsors, contributes significantly to the program's framework. They aim to broaden the program's reach, ensuring that more fund managers can participate and thrive, further enhancing the diversity in the venture capital landscape.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Recast Accelerate Program?
The Recast Accelerate Program aims to empower women and non-binary-led funds in venture capital by providing them with essential resources and support.
How many funds are included in the second cohort?
The second cohort includes 25 funds, all of which have at least one GP who identifies as a woman or non-binary.
What types of sectors do the participating funds focus on?
The sectors include ClimateTech, Artificial Intelligence, FinTech, and Health and Wellness, among others.
Who are the key people behind Recast Capital?
Courtney McCrea and Sara Zulkosky are the co-founders and managing partners, dedicated to promoting diverse partnerships in venture capital.
How does the program ensure quality support for its participants?
The program provides hands-on support, strategic resources, and opportunities aimed at enhancing the operational capabilities of diverse managers.
