UVC: Vlad Tropko from Digital Horizon on the importance of team psychology in startup success, overcoming prejudices and biases in vc investment, and the evolving landscape of venture capital

In this episode you will learn:What is the greatest risk Vlad has taken in his life?How does Vlad compare angel investments to an MBA in terms of education and learning?According to Vlad, how important is a founding team's psychology in the success of a startup? What are some positive signs and negative signs to look for in a founding team from a psychology perspective?How did Vlad become a VC? What are the reasons behind Digital Horizon focusing on immigrant founders in terms of risk-taking and cost efficiency?How should startups think about growth, especially at the Series A stage, considering the previous growth strategies of startups?What are the current demands and changes in wealth management that require a new infrastructure?How can VCs overcome prejudices and biases in their investment decisions?What are the key factors in building relationships and trust in the VC industry?What aspects of VC will remain unchanged, such as the importance of networking and relationships?What new tools and technologies are emerging in VC to enhance deal sourcing, decision-making, and efficiency?About:<br />Vlad Tropko is a Partner at Digital Horizon, a venture firm specializing in FinTech Infrastructure, B2B Software, and AI applications. With over 15 years of experience in the VC/PE industry, Vlad is a seasoned executive with a focus on investments in European and American startups. Throughout his career, he has successfully closed more than 50 deals, including notable acquisitions such as "Quantenna Communications" by OnSemiconductor and "Zipline International."Vlad is known for actively supporting immigrant and female founders, recognizing the unique perspectives, drive, and ambition that often accompany individuals who have migrated to new communities. He believes in the distinct vision, capabilities, and growth potential that arise from such experiences.Digital Horizon operates globally with offices in London, UK, and Tel Aviv, Israel. The firm's strong connections to local ecosystems enable an active investment approach and effective portfolio management. Their investment focus aligns with their specialization in FinTech Infrastructure, B2B Software, and AI applications. Digital Horizon's commitment to supporting founders with a migratory background stems from their belief in the transformative power and innovative ideas that emerge from diverse experiences.