TLDR:
- Kelly Perdew and Craig Cummings successfully transitioned from military careers to venture capital.
- Veterans bring valuable skills and experiences to the VC ecosystem.
From Battlefields To Boardrooms: The Rise Of Military Veterans Turned Venture Capitalists explores the success stories of military veterans like Kelly Perdew and Craig Cummings who have transitioned into the venture capital industry. Perdew, known for winning “The Apprentice,” and Cummings, a Bronze Star awardee, credit their success to the discipline and principles learned during their military service. The article highlights that veterans bring a wealth of skills and expertise to the VC industry, with their unique training and experiences making them valuable evaluators of startups seeking capital.
However, the journey from military veteran to venture capitalist is not without challenges. Veterans face obstacles such as limited access to pipeline programs, difficulty networking with traditional investors, and fundraising challenges for veteran-led VC firms. Initiatives like VetsInTech, the Nasdaq’s Venture Equity Project, and the Diversity Data Coalition aim to bridge this gap by providing veteran-focused programs, mentorship, and networking opportunities.
Furthermore, resources like J.P. Morgan’s Project Spark, the SBA’s VetCert program, and the VA’s opportunities for veteran-owned businesses offer support for veterans entering the VC industry. Military veteran VCs like Raj Shah and Matt Shortal have already made significant contributions to the VC ecosystem, enriching it with their skills and perspectives. Investing in veteran-led firms not only honors their service but also brings about greater diversity of thought, making sound business sense.
