A Guide to VC Scout Programs: Open Application vs. Invite-Only
Venture capital (VC) scout programs have become a powerful way for aspiring investors and operators to break into the venture capital space. These programs allow individuals—often called “scouts”—to identify promising startups and share deals with venture funds. In return, scouts can earn a share in the profits if their deals lead to successful investments.
Here’s a guide to navigating the world of VC scout programs, split into two main categories: Open Application Programs, which anyone can apply to, and Invite-Only Programs, typically restricted to a select few.
VC Scout Programs with Open Applications
For those looking to gain VC experience without having insider connections, these open application programs are a great entry point. They’re designed for emerging scouts who want to prove their ability to source deals and gain exposure in venture capital.
1. Ada Ventures
Focuses on investing in overlooked markets and founders, welcoming scouts aligned with its mission.
2. Shl.vc
Operates a scout program that allows individuals to participate in venture capital activities.
3. G. Ventures
Accepts applications from individuals interested in early-stage investing, offering resources for identifying promising startups.
4. Spearhead
Empowers founders to become angel investors, providing capital and mentorship for scouting and investing in new startups.
5. Crescent Fund
A student-led venture fund, allowing university students to gain experience in venture capital.
6. Microtraction
Focuses on early-stage startups in Africa, inviting scouts who can source deals within this region.
7. Rebel One
A fellowship program for individuals interested in impact investing and venture capital.
8. Republic Venture Partners
Provides a platform for scouts to refer startups for crowdfunding and venture investments.
9. Versatile VC
Offers scouts the opportunity to earn a share of the carry for successful deals.
10. Amazon Web Services (AWS)
Operates a scout program focused on identifying startups that could benefit from AWS services.
11. BLCK VC
Aims to increase Black representation in venture capital, providing resources for aspiring scouts.
12. Calm Company Fund
Focuses on sustainable, profitable businesses, inviting scouts who align with its philosophy.
Invite-Only VC Scout Programs
Invite-only scout programs are generally reserved for individuals with strong connections to the venture community or proven expertise in specific sectors. These programs often involve working closely with top-tier VCs and provide scouts with valuable access to resources and networks.
1. Sequoia
An invite-only scout program selecting individuals with significant industry connections.
2. Accel
Engages scouts with a record of identifying promising startups, through an invitation-only process.
3. Backed VC
A program that selects scouts based on referrals and industry reputation.
4. Village Global
An invite-only network, typically comprising experienced entrepreneurs and operators.
5. Atomico
Focuses on scouts with deep sector expertise, sourcing startups with global potential.
6. True Ventures
Works with scouts who have extensive founder networks, chosen through a selective process.
7. Catapult VC
A private, invite-only scout program that selects scouts based on industry experience.
8. Allied VC
Engages scouts through referrals, prioritizing those with a proven ability to source deals.
9. 100X.VC
An India-focused program that brings on scouts with strong startup ecosystem connections.
10. 10K Ventures
Operates a selective program for scouts with a track record in early-stage investing.
11. 3L Capital
Engages scouts with specific industry expertise through an invitation-only process.
12. 500 Global
A globally focused scout program, selecting scouts based on referrals.
13. Aera VC
A sustainability-focused program, collaborating with scouts knowledgeable in environmentally impactful startups.
14. AI.FUND
Selects scouts with expertise in artificial intelligence and machine learning.
15. AirTree Ventures
An Australian-based program, inviting scouts with knowledge of the local market.
16. Alicorn Ventures
An invite-only program focused on scouts with expertise in Asia and North America.
17. Alter Global
Engages scouts with connections in emerging markets.
18. Andreessen Horowitz
Chooses scouts with deep ties in the tech industry.
19. Bessemer Venture Partners
Focuses on scouts with sector knowledge to source early-stage deals.
20. Backstage Capital
A diversity-focused VC selecting scouts passionate about supporting underrepresented founders.
21. Beyond Capital
Engages scouts aligned with its mission of supporting sustainable, high-impact startups.
22. Blackbird
A program based in Australia and New Zealand, focusing on scouts with regional expertise.
23. Blue Collective
Collaborates with scouts to bring in a variety of deal flow across sectors.
24. Bonfire Ventures
Works with scouts knowledgeable in the B2B software space.
25. Campus Founders Fund
A student-run fund allowing university students to scout and invest in startups.
26. Cancer Fund
A program focused on early-stage cancer research and healthcare startups.
27. Chapter One
Works with scouts in consumer technology.
28. Class 5 Global
Focuses on emerging markets, engaging scouts experienced in socially impactful technology.
29. Climate VC
A climate-focused program that selects scouts knowledgeable in environmental technology.
30. Clearvision Ventures
Works with scouts focused on energy and environmental impact investments.
31. Costanoa Ventures
A B2B-focused program that collaborates with scouts in enterprise technology.
32. Cowboy Ventures
A program focused on identifying early-stage consumer and enterprise technology startups.
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