As an intern at Daring Ventures, a dynamic venture capital startup, I have had the opportunity to immerse myself in the world of early-stage investing, with a particular focus on supporting overlooked founders. Daring Ventures is committed to investing in diverse, unconventional entrepreneurs whose innovative ideas have the potential to drive significant societal impact.
In my role, I’ve played an integral part in the due diligence process, attending client meetings, investor pitches, and Demo Days, where I’ve gained firsthand exposure to the strategies and challenges of both startups and investors. These experiences have allowed me to develop a strong understanding of how venture capitalists assess business opportunities, evaluate potential investments, and engage with founders to understand their vision, goals, and needs.
I have also contributed to the branding proposal process, helping to shape how startups position themselves in the market to attract both investors and customers. This has involved researching market trends, identifying competitive advantages, and collaborating with the team to craft compelling brand narratives that resonate with target audiences.
Additionally, I’ve participated in legal meetings, including term sheet reviews and discussions around fund formation. These experiences have deepened my understanding of the legal frameworks and financial structures that underpin venture capital investments, and how these agreements are designed to align the interests of investors and founders while protecting all parties involved.
A highlight of my internship has been attending pitch competitions where emerging startups showcase their ideas to potential investors. These events have provided valuable insight into how entrepreneurs refine their pitches, and I’ve observed firsthand how critical investor feedback can shape a company’s trajectory.
I have also conducted research around underfunding towards women and ethnically diverse founders in the venture capital ecosystem and different accelerator and startup programs across the United States for the firms thesis.
Through this internship, I’ve gained invaluable exposure to the venture capital industry, and deepened my appreciation for the importance of supporting underrepresented founders who may not traditionally have access to capital. I’ve learned how effective venture capital can help elevate diverse perspectives and create lasting impact, and I’m excited to continue learning and contributing in this dynamic field.