8VC Build companies are either initially driven by internal theses or our Entrepreneurs-in-Residence. We begin the Build process based on internal theses when 8VC has deep expertise in a space, and finds a problem we are uniquely qualified to address. EIRs also initiate the Build process by joining 8VC with a problem or vertical already in mind, which we help them focus.
From day one, we work directly with entrepreneurs in the “Zero to One” process to give our companies unfair advantages in whatever space they operate in. Recent Build verticals include logistics, insurtech, govtech, and robotics. At the end of the incubation process, Build companies raise seed rounds and are positioned to scale rapidly.
If you want to start or join an early-stage company, here’s what you will find at 8VC Build:
Creative freedom: We bring in top talent because we want to learn from you and see what you can build. We can make you one promise: you won’t be told what to do here. As an EIR or engineer for one of our Build companies, you are expected to research new ideas, test new products, and ultimately shape an industry-transforming company.
Impact potential: We only build companies that we think have massive potential. At every point in the incubation process, we ask ourselves two questions: “What are we accomplishing now that could not be accomplished 5 years ago?” and “How does this company become a billion-dollar business?” 8VC partners have experience both accelerating early stage startups and scaling industry-leading companies like Palantir and Linkedin. We know how to encourage big-picture thinking and we also also understand how to hone in on a specific problem as a first use-case.
Network: From day one, 8VC Build companies have immediate access to our vast network of advisors and industry leaders. Every 8VC Build companies’ early advisors include pioneers of their respective industries, and we leverage the 8VC network to connect our EIRs and engineers to industry titans. For example, Andrew Berberick and Nate Robert, the co-founders of the last-mile logistics company Baton, workshopped their early idea with the former Chief Commercial Officer of UPS and the CEO of Walmart Transportation. The board of Figure 1, a recently-incubated skincare company, includes the heads of Harvard and Stanford Dermatology. In addition to top-tier industry connections, 8VC Build companies also have access to entrepreneurs within our 250+ company portfolio.
Ease of access to funding: The number one reason most startups fail is that they cannot raise sufficient funds to execute their vision. 8VC Build completely eliminates this risk at the seed stage and significantly reduces it as the company scales. After a successful proof of concept, 100% of 8VC Build companies raise seed rounds, led by 8VC. We continue to work closely with our Build companies throughout the company life cycle, using our fundraising expertise and network to help raise capital for Build companies at the Series A, B, C rounds and beyond.
