Funding 101 - Fundraising Resources for Founders

FD Ep. 36 Thanasis Proof.vc

Written by Jason Kirby | Apr 4, 2024 6:15:00 PM

The Originator of the Opportunity Fund Concept Helping Early-Stage VCs Capture More Upside in Their Biggest Winners 

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Thanasis Reveals His Strategies for Managing a $350M Fund Serving Early-Stage VCs

                                   

In this episode, we are joined by Thanasis Delistathis, managing partner and co-founder of Proof, to talk about their groundbreaking insider access strategy in venture capital. Proof partners with early-stage funds to invest in high-potential breakout companies, boasting a track record of success, including the recent acquisition of Jackpocket. With investments totaling approximately $350 million on behalf of Limited Partners (LPs) through managed entities, Proof leads the way in innovative fund management.

Thanasis discusses the origin of the opportunity fund and how it evolved into the Proof strategy. He emphasizes building relationships with early-stage funds and Proof's role in facilitating co-investments, while explaining the strategy's economic incentives and addressing fundraising challenges and opportunities. Venture capitalists and fund managers won't want to miss these insights into navigating the competitive landscape and unlocking investment opportunities.

Here's what you're in for:

  • 00:00 - Intro
  • 03:11 - Evolution of Proof from early-stage investing to insider access strategy
  • 04:06 - How opportunity funds started
  • 05:09 - Founding New Atlantic Ventures and innovations in fund structures
  • 12:18 - Launching Proof and building relationships with early-stage funds
  • 14:33 - Evaluation criteria for selecting high-growth startups
  • 16:31 - How funds share profits and incentives align
  • 36:45 - Acquisition of Jackpocket and investment strategy
  • 37:04 - Advice for emerging fund managers 

ABOUT THANASIS

Thanasis Delistathis, Managing Partner and Co-founder of Proof, began his career with a passion for engineering but discovered his knack for finance at Princeton University. After gaining experience at Draper Atlantic and co-founding New Atlantic Ventures, he pioneered Proof insider access strategy, revolutionizing venture capital by challenging traditional funding norms. With a focus on innovation and emerging opportunities, Thanasis continues to empower entrepreneurs and investors, reshaping the startup landscape with forward-thinking approaches to investing.

Connect with Thanasis on:

Watch it Now

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Let's Connect:

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