Ready to discover how venture capital can drive real impact for emerging markets—and what true leadership looks like in the investment world? In this episode of Female VC Lab, host Barbara Bickham sits down with Eva Yazhari, Managing Partner at Beyond Capital Ventures, for an unfiltered conversation on building a mission-driven VC fund, why conscious leadership matters, and how investing in Africa and India’s rising middle classes creates incredible opportunities for transformation. Tune in to hear Eva share how she moved from finance into venture capital, her relational approach to due diligence, why formalizing informal markets like smallholder farming is a game-changing thesis, and how she’s fostering community and alignment by giving GP carry to all team members—and even founders. Whether you’re an aspiring investor, a founder in emerging markets, or simply passionate about sustainable growth, you’ll walk away inspired and equipped with fresh insights into where VC is headed next.

Guest Information
Guest Name: Eva Yazhari
Bio: Eva Yazhari is the Managing Partner of Beyond Capital Ventures, a purpose-driven venture capital firm investing in seed to Series A rounds across Africa and India. With roots in institutional finance, Eva brings a wealth of experience in fund management, deep due diligence, and impact investing, focusing on technologies and services that uplift the “need to haves” through conscious leadership and stakeholder alignment.
Links:

• Beyond Capital Ventures

• LinkedIn – Eva Yazhari

• Instagram – @consciousinvestor

• The Good Your Money Can Do (Book)

Episode Outline
How Eva Yazhari Entered VC & Built Beyond Capital Ventures
Hear Eva’s unconventional journey from math major to fund-of-funds to founding her own emerging markets VC, and the unique skill set she carried into her new role. Resource: Beyond Capital Ventures Team

Formalizing Informal Markets in Emerging Economies
Explore “formalizing the informal,” and learn how Beyond Capital Ventures invests in businesses that empower smallholder farmers and aggregate resources for scalable, sustainable impact, featuring a spotlight on agritech company Cinch.
Resource: Portfolio Companies

Conscious Leadership & Redefining VC Alignment
Gain insight into Eva’s approach to authentic, stakeholder-centered leadership, including her innovative decision to share GP carry with both her team and portfolio founders—creating alignment and community while driving results.
Resource: The Good Your Money Can Do

Related Episodes & Additional Resources

• Book Recommendation: The Culture Code by Daniel Coyle – Eva’s pick for building strong, collaborative cultures

Host & Show Info
Host Name: Barbara Bickham
About the Host: Barbara Bickham is the founder and Managing Partner of Trailyn Ventures, technology executive, and passionate advocate for diversity and innovation in venture capital.
Podcast Website: femalevclab.com

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Step into the world of impact investing with this captivating episode of Female VC Lab! Host Barbara Bickham sits down with Najada Kumbuli, Vice President and Head of Investments at the Visa Foundation, for an illuminating conversation on reshaping capitalism for the greater good. Discover how Najada’s journey from communist Albania to leading global VC strategies at Visa Foundation fuels her passion for social responsibility, small business empowerment, and inclusive innovation. Find out what’s next in venture capital, why AI and emerging markets are top of mind, and get a behind-the-scenes look at how the Visa Foundation backs entrepreneurs while driving lasting social impact. Whether you’re an investor, founder, or changemaker, you’ll leave inspired and equipped with actionable insights on building a more equitable future.

Guest Information
Guest Name: Najada Kumbuli
Bio: Najada Kumbuli is the Vice President and Head of Investments at the Visa Foundation, where she champions impact investing and ecosystem growth for small businesses and entrepreneurs worldwide. Leveraging her unique upbringing in Albania and global expertise, Najada leads a holistic investment strategy with a focus on inclusion, sustainable growth, and measurable social impact.

Links:

• Visa Foundation Website: https://usa.visa.com/about-visa/visa-foundation.html

• LinkedIn: Najada Kumbuli LinkedIn

Episode Outline
Origins & Inspiration for Impact Investing
Najada shares her powerful personal journey from communist Albania to global investing, revealing what motivated her to pursue impact investing and advocate for “conscious capitalism.”

• Learn more about impact investing from the Visa Foundation

Visa Foundation’s Investment Thesis & Global Strategy
A deep dive into how the Visa Foundation’s thesis centers on championing small businesses with access to capital, digital tools, and financial skills—spanning micro-entrepreneurs in Nigeria to high-growth startups in India.

• Visa Foundation Annual Report: See their latest impact and portfolio highlights

Trends Shaping the Future of Venture Capital
Najada gives her perspective on what’s ahead for VC: the expanding role of AI and deep tech, greater discipline in investing, increased attention to emerging markets like Africa and Latin America, and the rise of responsible, impact-driven investments.

• Acquired Podcast – a favorite resource mentioned by Najada

Resources for Founders & Fund Managers
Discover how to get connected with the Visa Foundation, access reports, and tap into support and tools for scaling your impact-driven business.

• Contact Visa Foundation or access their resources

Further Reading & Resources:

• Visa Foundation Impact Report: Read here

• Book: “Conscious Capitalism” by John Mackey & Raj Sisodia

• Acquired Podcast

Host & Show Info
Host Name: Barbara Bickham
About the Host: Barbara Bickham is a veteran technologist, investor, and founder committed to amplifying women’s voices in venture capital. She brings her expertise in innovation, investing, and entrepreneurship to every episode of Female VC Lab.
Podcast Website: https://femalevclab.com

Community & Calls to Action
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What does it take to be a globally minded investor in today's ever-evolving landscape? In this unmissable episode, host Barbara Bickham sits down with Erika Aquino—angel investor, strategic advisor, and head of m Squad—to dive deep into investing with purpose and heart. Erika shares her dynamic journey from boardroom legacy in The Philippines to championing women and minority-led startups worldwide. You’ll hear her sharp insights on the explosive impact of AI, why founder EQ is a make-or-break factor, and how global crises (from disaster-prone regions to food supply) are reframing what impactful investing truly means. Whether you’re an aspiring investor, a founder, or a changemaker, this conversation offers real talk on values-driven investment and the future of angel funding.

Guest Information
Guest Name: Erika Aquino
Bio: Erika Aquino is an angel investor, strategic adviser, and the head of m Squad, a Singapore-based investment group with a global focus. Raised and based in The Philippines, Erika is dedicated to supporting women and minority founders in fields like sustainability, wellness, future of work, and education. Her investment style centers on community impact, founder chemistry, and leveraging technology for good.

Links:

• Website: https://erika-aquino.com

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erika-aquino

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamerikaaquino/

Episode Outline
Erika Aquino’s Journey to Investing
Discover Erika’s transition from supporting her father’s tech company in The Philippines to forging her own path as a global angel investor, with a focus on legacy, impact, and growth in community-driven ventures.

Thesis-Driven Investing with Heart
Erika lays out her investment criteria: backing women and minority founders in critical sectors (sustainability, wellness, the future of work, education, and adjacent areas). She shares how her upbringing in The Philippines shaped her commitment to impactful, values-driven investments.

AI, Founder EQ, and the Future of Venture
A fast-paced look at how AI is turbocharging diligence, research, and even daily routines—plus why human intelligence and emotional intelligence remain irreplaceable in venture. Erika and Barbara debate the evolving human/AI dynamic and discuss the critical importance of founder mindset and community engagement in tomorrow’s ecosystem.

Transcript
For a full transcript of this episode, visit: https://femalevclab.com

Host & Show Info
Host Name: Barbara Bickham
About the Host: Barbara Bickham is an accomplished technologist, investor, and mentor dedicated to amplifying the voices and impact of female venture leaders around the globe.

Podcast Website: https://femalevclab.com

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Unlocking Lifetime Financial Security & The Future of Wealth | E113 feat. Cheryl L. Evans, JD (Milken Institute)

What does it really take to achieve lifelong financial security in a changing world? In this episode, Barbara Bickham sits down with Cheryl L. Evans, JD—Director of the Lifetime Financial Security (LFS) Program at the Milken Institute—to discuss the evolving landscape of retirement, the impact of generational wealth transfer, and why women need to be at the forefront of financial planning. Whether you’re navigating the start of your financial journey or contemplating legacy and longevity, this thought-provoking conversation is packed with actionable insights, future-forward trends, and inspiring perspectives for investors, innovators, and anyone interested in the intersection of finance and social impact.

Key takeaways include:

• The realities behind “peak 65” and the massive shift as Boomers retire

• How Gen Z and Millennials can tackle the unique financial headwinds they face

• Why personalized retirement strategies matter more than ever

• The pivotal role of guaranteed income products and the reinvention of pensions

• The great wealth transfer—what it means for women, venture capital, and entrepreneurship

Don’t miss this deep dive into how financial security impacts individuals, families, and the future of investment.

Guest Information Guest Name:
Cheryl L. Evans, JD Bio: Cheryl L. Evans is the Director of the Lifetime Financial Security Program at the Milken Institute. With a background as a securities lawyer (formerly at the SEC) and training in life coaching, Cheryl brings a unique perspective to wealth building, retirement planning, and financial empowerment across generations.

Email: cevans@milkeninstitute.org
LinkedIn: Cheryl Evans LinkedIn

Episode Outline

1. The Evolution of Retirement & Longevity
   Explore how demographic shifts (like “peak 65” as Boomers hit retirement age) are reshaping policies, products, and individual decisions around lifetime financial security.
   Link: Milken Institute LFS Program

2. Meeting Millennial and Gen Z Financial Challenges
   Dive into current research and expert panel insights on wealth-building challenges faced by younger generations—from student debt to home-buying hurdles—and strategies for future financial success.

3. Women, Wealth Transfer & Financial Confidence
   Learn about the upcoming great wealth transfer to women, the specific challenges and opportunities this presents, and why empowering women with financial literacy and leadership is more vital than ever.

Resources:

• Lifetime Financial Security Report: https://milkeninstitute.org/report/shifting-retirement-paradigm-financial-security

• Enhancing Retirement: Advancing Lifetime Income for All

  https://milkeninstitute.org/content-hub/research-and-reports/reports/enhancing-retirement-advancing-lifetime-income-all

• Our Afternoon with Gloria Steinem https://milkeninstitute.org/article/our-afternoon-gloria-steinem

• Addressing the Financial Headwinds Faced by Gen Z and Millennials https://vimeo.com/1076695634

• Ellevest (Women-focused wealth management)

• Gloria Steinem’s “Talking Circles” on women’s financial confidence

• Joia Louie Dreyfus’ “Wiser Than Me” podcast

• “Let Them” by Mel Robbins (book)

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In this powerful episode of Female VC Lab, host Barbara Bickham sits down with Mary King, vice president at Aligned Climate Fund, to uncover how venture capital is accelerating the global clean energy transition. If you’re curious about the future of climate tech, energy innovation, and how investors are driving decarbonization, this episode is for you!

Mary pulls back the curtain on Aligned Climate Fund’s investment thesis: investing in companies taking real action to decarbonize our infrastructure—including clean energy, resilient infrastructure, electric transport, and sustainable land use. You’ll hear insider stories about backing geothermal breakthroughs, innovative microgrid solutions, and the growing impact of point source carbon capture. Mary and Barbara also dive deep on challenges in climate tech VC, how AI could transform investment diligence, and why distributed energy and resilience are game changers for communities around the world.

Whether you’re in the climate space, an entrepreneur, or just passionate about shaping a sustainable future, you’ll walk away with fresh insights and inspiration for what’s next in climate innovation and venture capital.

Guest Information Guest Name: Mary King Bio: Mary King is vice president at Aligned Climate Fund, the venture strategy for Aligned Climate Capital. She invests in early-stage companies driving decarbonization across clean energy, resilient infrastructure, electric transport, and sustainable land use. Links:

• Mary King’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maryeking/

• Aligned Climate Capital: https://alignedclimatecapital.com/

Episode Outline

Aligned Climate Fund’s Investment Thesis Mary explains how Aligned invests in seed to Series B companies with proven climate solutions, focusing on clean energy, resilient infrastructure, and decarbonization.
More about Aligned Climate Capital

The Role of Emerging Technologies: Geothermal, Microgrids & Carbon Capture A look at how Aligned approaches geothermal and microgrid investments, plus insights on distributed energy and point source carbon capture for scalable climate action. Resource: What is Geothermal Energy?
Resource: Distributed Energy Resources

The Future of Climate Tech and VC: AI, Diligence, and Industry Shifts Mary predicts how AI will soon revolutionize VC deal flow and diligence, enabling faster, smarter investment decisions—and what this means specifically for the climate sector. Resource: AI in Venture Capital

Transcript For a full transcript of this episode, visit: https://femalevclab.com

About the Host: Barbara Bickham is a venture investor, technologist, and founder of Female VC Lab. She champions women in venture and spotlights game-changing leaders investing for a better future. Podcast Website: https://femalevclab.com

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Episode Summary:

Dive into the intriguing world of venture capital with our latest episode featuring Katelin Holloway, a founding partner at Seven Seven Six. Discover what motivated Katelin to transition from an executive operator to a venture capitalist and how her deep empathy for founders guides her investment decisions. In this episode, you'll gain insights into Seven Seven Six's unique thesis-agnostic approach and explore the dynamic shifts in the venture capital landscape. Whether you're curious about space tech, women's health tech, or AI's impact on the future of VC, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways that will keep you engaged from start to finish.

Guest Information:

Guest Name: Katelin Holloway
Bio: Katelin Holloway is a founding partner at Seven Seven Six, a venture capital firm driven by her extensive experience as an operator and executive. With a passion for supporting founders and a focus on innovative sectors, Katelin brings a wealth of knowledge and a unique perspective to the investment landscape.
Links: LinkedIn, X - formerly Twitter

Episode Outline:

1. Transition to Venture Capital
Katelin discusses her journey from being an executive to a venture capitalist, fueled by her desire to scale her impact by supporting multiple companies as an investor.

2. Thesis-Agnostic Investment Strategy
Explore how Seven Seven Six’s thesis-agnostic approach allows them to invest in diverse sectors, focusing on the best founders and innovative ideas.

3. The Future of Venture Capital and AI
Discover how AI is reshaping the venture capital ecosystem and Katelin’s insights on leveraging AI to create impactful investments and operational efficiencies.

Community & Calls to Action:

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Empowering Women in Venture Capital: The Journey of Marcia Dawood

Marcia Dawood is not just a name in the venture capital world; she is a beacon of hope and empowerment for women entrepreneurs across the globe. As a venture partner at Mindshift Capital, Marcia's mission revolves around elevating women-led innovation in sectors that matter, such as health tech, fintech, edtech, and food tech. This blog post delves into her journey, her investment thesis, and the essential changes needed in the venture capital landscape to foster diversity and inclusion.

From Angel Investing to Venture Capital

Marcia's venture into the investment world began about twelve years ago when she attended an angel investing meeting. Initially unaware of what angel investing entailed, she quickly grasped the innovative potential around her. However, she was struck by a sobering realization: the lack of funding for women entrepreneurs. This pivotal moment inspired her to join various funds, contributing as an investor and member of investment committees.

Marcia's passion for supporting women-led businesses led her to co-found Mindshift Capital with her colleague Heather Henyan. Their goal? To invest in women-led companies globally, creating a ripple effect of change and innovation.

The Investment Thesis at Mindshift Capital

Marcia's investment thesis is rooted in the belief that women-led companies can drive significant change in the world. Mindshift Capital focuses on four key areas: health tech, fintech, edtech, and food tech. These sectors are not just trends; they represent the future of innovation and societal improvement.

Global Trends in Investment

Marcia highlights a fascinating trend: many entrepreneurs seeking funding often look to the U.S. to commercialize their innovations. This phenomenon is colloquially referred to as "all roads lead to Delaware." U.S. investors can sometimes be hesitant to invest in foreign companies due to unfamiliar tax implications. However, Marcia and her team have successfully navigated these complexities, allowing them to invest in promising companies at lower valuations while providing valuable support for their growth.

Understanding Money: A Personal Journey

Marcia is currently fascinated by the mindset surrounding money and how it affects people's willingness to invest. She believes that if more individuals understood the potential for positive change through investment, the landscape of entrepreneurship would look vastly different. Many people still perceive investing as an exclusive domain for the wealthy and well-connected.

To address this gap in understanding, Marcia launched her podcast, The Angel Next Door, aimed at demystifying angel investing and making it accessible to everyone. She also authored the book Do Good While Doing Well, which discusses how individuals can invest in impactful companies while also achieving financial returns.

The Educational Gap in Investing

Marcia observes that women often donate money, while men are more inclined to invest. This discrepancy highlights a significant educational gap. Many women are willing to invest but may lack the confidence or knowledge to do so. Conversations about investing need to be normalized and encouraged, ensuring that women feel invited into the investment room.

The Future of Venture Capital

When envisioning the future of venture capital, Marcia sees a movement toward democratizing private investing. The SEC's 2016 rule change allowed for equity crowdfunding, enabling more people to invest with smaller amounts, starting from as little as $50. This shift has the potential to create a more inclusive investment landscape.

Marcia believes that just as public markets have evolved to become more accessible, private investing can follow suit. The rise of platforms like Robinhood has already changed how people engage with the stock market, and similar changes can be expected in venture capital.

Expanding Definitions of Accredited Investors

Another critical aspect of the future of venture capital involves redefining what it means to be an accredited investor. Marcia sits on an advisory committee to the SEC, where discussions surrounding the definition of accredited investors are ongoing. She argues that expanding this definition and providing more education will allow a broader range of individuals to participate in venture capital, ultimately leading to systemic change.

Resources for Aspiring Investors

Marcia's website, marciadawood.com, is a treasure trove of resources for aspiring investors. Visitors can access free materials, including the first chapter of her book and worksheets designed to guide new investors. Her podcast episodes cover various topics related to equity crowdfunding and fundraising, making them valuable for both entrepreneurs and potential investors.

Frequently Asked Questions

What inspired Marcia to focus on women-led companies?

Marcia's journey began when she realized the significant underfunding of female entrepreneurs despite their innovative potential. This motivated her to create opportunities for women-led businesses through her work at Mindshift Capital.

How can someone become an angel investor?

Anyone interested in becoming an angel investor can start by educating themselves through resources like Marcia's podcast, The Angel Next Door, and her book, Do Good While Doing Well. Additionally, joining local angel groups or crowdfunding platforms can provide valuable insights and networking opportunities.

What are the key sectors Mindshift Capital focuses on?

Mindshift Capital primarily invests in health tech, fintech, edtech, and food tech, aiming to support companies that are making a meaningful difference in the world.

How does Marcia see the future of venture capital evolving?

Marcia envisions a more democratized venture capital landscape, where private investing becomes accessible to a broader audience. She believes that changes in regulations and educational initiatives will facilitate this shift.

Conclusion

Marcia Dawood's journey from angel investing to becoming a venture partner at Mindshift Capital is a testament to her commitment to empowering women-led businesses. Her work not only fosters innovation but also encourages a more inclusive investment landscape. By breaking down barriers and providing resources, Marcia is paving the way for the next generation of investors and entrepreneurs.

For more insights and resources, be sure to check out her website and tune into her podcast!

Female VC Lab Show Notes

Episode Title and Number: CES2025: What's Next for Smart Cities - AI for Data, Planning, and Beyond

Name of Session: What's Next for Smart Cities: AI for Data, Planning and Beyond

Date and Time: Tuesday, January 7, 2025 at 3:00 PM

Location: Las Vegas Convention Center North - N257

Session Description: The rise of AI-powered Smart Cities is significant. Learn from early adopters who have seen AI capabilities become notable force multipliers in our smartest cities. 

Full Panel:

• David Shier, Managing Director, Visionary Future (Moderator) 

• Sheri Bachstein, CEO, The Weather Company

• Barbara Bickham, Founder & GP, Trailyn VC

• Nadia Hansen, Global Digital Transformation Executive, Salesforce

• Prachi Vakharia, ARPA-I: Strategic Advisor for Innovations & Infrastructure, USDOT

Episode Summary: In this episode, we dive into the transformative potential of AI in developing smart cities, as discussed in a CES 2025 panel. The conversation covers aspects ranging from extreme weather prediction to citizen-centric services and the ethical implications of AI in urban governance.

Key Points Discussed:

• The role of AI in predicting extreme weather and urban design

• Probabilistic forecasting and its benefits for emergency preparedness

• The concept of citizen-centric smart cities for enhanced public participation

• Challenges in data standardization and the importance of public-private partnerships

• Ethical considerations, including bias and privacy concerns in AI technologies

Timecode Guide:

• 00:00:04

  - Introduction to smart cities and AI

• 00:00:38

  - Discussion about extreme weather prediction with AI

• 00:01:53

  - Explanation of probabilistic forecasting

• 00:03:09

  - Concept of citizen-centric smart cities

• 00:04:47

  - Data challenges and public-private partnerships

• 00:08:09

  - Ethics, transparency, and public education on AI

• 00:11:01

  - Challenges with AI model sizes and limited data

• 00:17:40

  - Privacy concerns in smart cities

• 00:18:45

  - Ensuring AI doesn't perpetuate bias

• 00:20:02

  - Discussion on potential job losses and new opportunities

• 00:21:09

  - Misuse of AI by authoritarian governments

• 00:22:25

  - Weather strategy in the era of climate change

• 00:25:27

  - Collaboration and human-centered AI

• 00:27:45

  - Future vision for smart cities

Full Topic Guide:

The Future of Smart Cities: Harnessing AI for a Better Urban Life

Introduction: As we stand on the brink of an AI-driven transformation in urban living, the CES 2025 panel offers an enlightening glimpse into how next-gen technologies are being leveraged to create smarter, more resilient cities. Hosts Daniel and Barbara Bickham review these discussions, stressing the interplay of data, AI, and human insight in shaping the future.

AI in Predicting Extreme Weather: One of the most compelling highlights was the role of AI in weather prediction and urban planning. As climate change leads to unpredictable weather patterns, AI provides a way to prepare for unprecedented events. AI's capacity to analyze vast amounts of climate data allows for effective "what if" scenario modeling, enabling cities to design infrastructure that can withstand extreme conditions. For example, you might reinforce a seawall today based on AI predictions of future storms.

Probabilistic Forecasting: Advancements in probabilistic forecasting were another exciting point discussed. Unlike traditional methods, probabilistic forecasting uses AI to run thousands of scenarios, providing a range of potential outcomes rather than a single prediction. This not only improves weather accuracy but also aids in emergency preparedness, allowing cities to allocate resources more efficiently and preempt disasters, thereby saving lives and reducing costs.

Citizen-Centric Smart Cities: The concept of making cities more user-friendly for residents drew considerable attention. Imagine all city services being available through a single app—reporting potholes, paying taxes, or even participating in local governance through blockchain-enabled voting systems. This not only simplifies interactions with municipal services but also empowers citizens by giving them a direct say in urban management.

Data Challenges and Public-Private Partnerships: However, the transition to smart cities is fraught with challenges, particularly in data management. Cities gather massive amounts of data, but these are often trapped in silos, hindering a comprehensive overview. Collaboration through public-private partnerships is vital here. Government bodies possess critical data, while private enterprises offer the technological expertise to process and utilize this information effectively. Examples like the Weather Company's collaborations with NOAA and NVIDIA highlight the potential of these partnerships.

Ethical and Transparency Considerations: The panel stressed the ethical implications of integrating AI into city management. Trust and transparency are crucial for citizen buy-in. There needs to be a concerted effort to educate both government officials and the public on AI. Moreover, it's important to ensure that AI systems are fair and do not perpetuate existing biases. Implementing strong ethical guidelines and having diverse teams develop these technologies can mitigate potential risks.

Privacy Concerns: With vast amounts of data being collected, privacy is a significant concern. Clear rules on data collection, use, and access are necessary to prevent misuse. Enabling citizens to control their data and ensuring transparency about how it is used are steps toward this goal.

Conclusion: The future of smart cities depends not just on technological advancements but on collaborative, human-centered approaches. As we navigate this transformation, the focus must remain on using technology to enhance, not hinder, urban life.

Notable Quotes from the Hosts:

1. "It's about giving people the tools and the knowledge to be active participants in shaping the future of their cities."

2. "We need to be mindful of the potential consequences of AI on jobs, privacy, and equality."

Fun Facts or Interesting Tidbits:

1. People were more interested in searching for inmates in jail rather than marriage licenses on the redesigned Clark County website.

2. A project in Massachusetts involved transit maps from the 1970s, highlighting the need to update and digitize old data for modern use.

Stay engaged with the conversation on how AI and technology are transforming our cities. Feel inspired? Share your ideas on how we can build a smarter, more inclusive future for our urban environments. Follow us on social media and subscribe to our newsletter for more updates and deep dives into the latest technological trends.

Exploring Innovative Funding Structures for Affordable Housing: Insights from Liz Kuka

Welcome back to the Female VC Lab Podcast! In our latest episode, we had the pleasure of speaking with Liz Kuka, CEO of Purpose for Profit. Liz shared her unique perspective on venture capital, affordable housing, and the innovative funding structures her organization is pioneering.

Who is Liz Kuka?

• Name: Elizabeth Kuka
• Title: CEO
• Fund: Purpose for Profit

The Motivation Behind Venture Capital

When asked what inspired her to become a venture capitalist, Liz succinctly stated, “Money makes the world go round.” She believes in deploying capital to projects that can create real change, empowering people to bring their visions to life.

Purpose for Profit: A New Approach to Funding

What is Purpose for Profit?

Purpose for Profit operates as a tokenized lending fund, focusing on providing below-market-rate loans to businesses that are developing affordable mixed-income housing. Here’s how it works:

• Funding Mechanism: Individuals can purchase tokens, with 85% of the funds raised being deployed to loans for affordable housing projects.
• Types of Loans: The fund starts with construction bridge loans, addressing a significant gap in the market where traditional lending often falls short.

Transparency and Accessibility

Liz emphasized the importance of transparency in fund management. By leveraging blockchain technology, Purpose for Profit aims to provide:

• Real-Time Reporting: Unlike traditional funds that may take months to generate reports, stakeholders can access real-time data on asset management and loan progress.
• Simplified Investment: Instead of navigating complex legal documents, participants can engage through a straightforward token purchase backed by smart contracts.

Addressing Challenges in Affordable Housing

Liz pointed out that many nonprofits struggle with fundraising and face donor burnout. She highlighted the potential of cryptocurrency, which currently exceeds $3 trillion in market capitalization, to create new funding streams for affordable housing initiatives.

Why Focus on Affordable Housing?

Liz believes that safe and affordable housing is a crucial determinant of economic stability and educational outcomes. She noted that:

• Housing Impacts Life: Without a safe place to live, individuals face significant barriers to education and health, affecting their overall quality of life.
• Philanthropic Support: While many philanthropic efforts focus on education, Liz advocates for equal attention to housing as a foundational element of community well-being.

The Future of Venture Capital

Looking ahead, Liz predicts that venture capital will evolve significantly in the next two years. Key trends to watch include:

• Rise of Digital Assets: As younger investors become increasingly involved, the use of digital assets will lead to faster capital deployment and liquidity.
• Need for Education: With new money entering the market, there will be a heightened need for education on due diligence and risk management to ensure informed investment decisions.

How to Connect with Liz Kuka

Interested in learning more about Purpose for Profit or connecting with Liz? Here are the best ways to reach out:

• Website: Purpose for Profit
• Email: Liz@purposeforprofit.org
• LinkedIn: Find Liz on LinkedIn for professional networking.
• Twitter: Follow her on Twitter at @venture_this.

Conclusion

Thank you for joining us in this insightful conversation with Liz Kuka on the Female VC Lab Podcast. Her innovative approach to funding affordable housing through Purpose for Profit is a testament to the power of combining technology with social impact. Stay tuned for more episodes where we continue to explore the intersection of venture capital and meaningful change!