187. Transformative Tech for Old World Industry (Jim Kim)

Jim Kim of Builders VC joins Nick to discuss Transformative Tech for Old World Industry. In this episode, we cover:

• Quick Backstory/ Path to founding tech?
• Big news a few years ago that Formation 8 decided not to raise a fund 3. What happened with Formation 8 - why the decision not to raise fund 3?
• Tell us about the thesis at Builders.
• Why do you think these old world industries haven't been re-invented?
• I've worked in some old world industries myself... that move quite slowly. I'm curious if you think the timeline is a bit longer for tech companies to scale in these industries, if, for nothing else than the decision makers are much more methodical? 
• What are some of the key technology characteristics you're looking for in the companies you back?
• Aside from technology, what are the other key ingredients your hunting for?
• Vertical integration... building your own brand and own the customer relationship vs. serving many others as a component provider?
• What percentage of your new investments are serial founders vs. first-time and how does your approach differ with each?
• You've stated that "Synthetic biology will be the most important enabling technology of our lifetimes." Why?
• Talk about some exciting innovations in the science and data space and what industries will they be most beneficial to?
• How do you measure success with the companies in your portfolio and how do you help them get to that place?

 

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