testimonial

PV has possibly the best student VC network around. I have forged lasting relationships while working hand in hand with motivated individuals towards our common goal. It has allowed me to form a network of like-minded individuals whom I can connect with outside of school.

I found this (diversity) extremely value-adding as Protege Ventures consists of students from other universities beyond SMU. I believe that the diversity stimulates rich discussions. This expands my horizon and helps me increase my ability to make robust recommendations. PV is an operating venture capital fund which provides a unique environment to build and test my competencies in the real world. It is extremely rewarding to play an active role in ventures and the world of start-ups.

From improving my soft skills, like networking, to the hard skills of analysing and evaluating start-ups, I have witnessed my growth in the way I approach early stage companies. To my surprise and delight, there are many companies out there led by young founders with crazy ideas to reshape and improve lifes.

In the past year and a half, I was able to build my own network, broaden my horizons, and create some solid friendships along the way! I am grateful for all the mentorship opportunities Protégé Ventures has provided me and I’m looking forward to meeting new start-ups and new members in the coming semester!”

Since joining Protégé Ventures, my understanding of Venture Capital has accelerated. The industry mentors, case studies and hands-on work with student ventures have pushed me to be more critical yet collaborative. Helping student founders learn about fundraising, hiring, launch and growth strategies have been a value add for me.

It has been inspiring, meeting and working alongside some really smart people in the team, as well as passionate founders who have been courageous enough to take the first step in building something to solve problems they perceive in society.

SMU is excited to partner with Kairos ASEAN on this innovative initiative. The multi-sector collaboration will enable us to share SMU IIE's knowledge with more students through the Kairos ASEAN network, and together bring more value to VCs and young entrepreneurs.