Molly Alter: A Journey from Filmmaker to Venture Capital Investor

Molly Alter, a creative soul with a background in filmmaking and improv comedy, has made an interesting transition from the world of entertainment to the world of technology and venture capital. While her journey might not be the typical path to becoming a venture capital investor, her unique background and skills make her a valuable asset in the tech ecosystem.

Alter started her professional career in film, producing projects like a mockumentary about an alternate reality where charades is big business.

She also started a company while at Harvard, focusing on filming a cappella concerts and dance recitals, showcasing her entrepreneurial spirit.

Her transition into venture capital was fueled by her desire to learn more about different businesses and business models.

The Early Years as a Venture Capital Investor

Alter's venture capital journey began at Insight Partners, where she joined their analyst program. Her initial goal was to gain a broad understanding of the tech industry and acquire knowledge about building companies. During her time at Insight, she had the opportunity to work on diverse projects and gain exposure to various sectors, ultimately leading her to specialize in vertical software.

After nearly five years at Insight, Alter moved to Index, a London-based venture capital firm, as a partner.

In 2023, she joined Northzone, a multistage firm based in New York City, where she is currently a partner.

A Unique Perspective as an Investor

Alter's diverse background provides her with a unique perspective in the world of venture capital. Her creative mindset and experience as an entrepreneur allow her to understand the challenges and opportunities faced by startups. This, coupled with her passion for technology and deep dive into vertical software, makes her a valuable partner for founders seeking investment.

Her film background was instrumental in her Series C investment in Frame.io, a cloud-based video collaboration platform, in 2019. This investment showcased her ability to recognize emerging trends and opportunities in the tech landscape.

Her interest in exploring how things work and her willingness to delve into the complexities of diverse industries, such as government contracts, makes her a valuable resource for founders in navigating the complexities of the technology world.

Focus on Vertical Software and Building Strong Relationships

Alter's passion for vertical software extends beyond just her investment focus. She believes in the transformative power of vertical software to improve existing processes and systems in various industries. Her experience in this area makes her a sought-after investor for startups developing innovative solutions in specific sectors.

She actively seeks out startups with real potential, particularly those in the vertical software space, focusing on cutting-edge technology and innovative solutions.

Alter's ability to build strong relationships with founders is crucial to her success as a venture capital investor. She believes in establishing genuine connections and understanding their vision beyond just the business proposition, fostering trust and collaboration.

Navigating the Challenges and Rewards of Venture Capital

The venture capital landscape is often challenging and unpredictable. Despite the hurdles, Alter's passion for the industry drives her forward, and she embraces the opportunity to work with innovative founders and drive technological advancements.

She acknowledges that the venture capital world requires grit and determination, and she is always excited to launch into a week of meeting founders and discovering new innovations.

Alter's journey from filmmaker to venture capital investor demonstrates her ability to adapt and thrive in different environments. Her unique skillset and passion for technology make her a valuable asset to the tech ecosystem, particularly in the realm of vertical software.

The Future of Venture Capital and Molly Alter's Vision

Looking ahead, Alter remains optimistic about the future of venture capital, particularly in the realm of vertical software. She is confident that the industry will continue to evolve and innovate, and she is eager to be a part of that journey. As a partner at Northzone, she will continue to focus on identifying and supporting startups with the potential to disrupt their respective industries and make a lasting impact on the world.

Alter's commitment to finding startups with real potential and her dedication to building strong relationships with founders ensures that she will continue to play a significant role in shaping the future of the technology landscape.