Venture Capital, Reimagined: A Conversation with Mike Collins
Tue Jan 27 2026
VC pioneer Mike Collins built his firm around his passionate belief that venture capital investing shouldn’t be limited to a select few. In this episode of Startup Success, host Kate sits down with Mike Collins, Founder and CEO of Alumni Ventures, to discuss how one of the most active VC firms in the world is redefining access to venture investing, along with his advice for today’s founders and his perspective on the evolving startup ecosystem.
Alumni Ventures takes a unique approach to venture capital, investing alongside top-tier firms while drawing capital from a network of individual accredited investors. With more than 11,000 investors, over $1.5B raised, and 1,000+ portfolio companies, the firm has built a powerful ecosystem that benefits both founders and investors.
Tune in to learn:
What Mike and Alumni Ventures look for when evaluating startups
Why AI is transformative—but not the only sector worth watching
Mike’s key advice to founders, summed up in 3 words
What sets Alumni Ventures apart from other VC firmsTune in to hear Mike’s perspective on the future of venture capital, why we’re in a golden age of innovation, and how Alumni Ventures leverages its extensive network to help founders succeed.
Stay connected with our host, Kate Adams, here on LinkedIn!
🔗 Learn more about Alumni Ventures at av.vc
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VC pioneer Mike Collins built his firm around his passionate belief that venture capital investing shouldn’t be limited to a select few. In this episode of Startup Success, host Kate sits down with Mike Collins, Founder and CEO of Alumni Ventures, to discuss how one of the most active VC firms in the world is redefining access to venture investing, along with his advice for today’s founders and his perspective on the evolving startup ecosystem. Alumni Ventures takes a unique approach to venture capital, investing alongside top-tier firms while drawing capital from a network of individual accredited investors. With more than 11,000 investors, over $1.5B raised, and 1,000+ portfolio companies, the firm has built a powerful ecosystem that benefits both founders and investors. Tune in to learn: What Mike and Alumni Ventures look for when evaluating startups Why AI is transformative—but not the only sector worth watching Mike’s key advice to founders, summed up in 3 words What sets Alumni Ventures apart from other VC firmsTune in to hear Mike’s perspective on the future of venture capital, why we’re in a golden age of innovation, and how Alumni Ventures leverages its extensive network to help founders succeed. Stay connected with our host, Kate Adams, here on LinkedIn! 🔗 Learn more about Alumni Ventures at av.vc