Joining Main Sequence Ventures

I’m pumped to announce I’m joining Bill Bartee and Phil Morle at Main Sequence Ventures. Main Sequence is a new early stage fund backed by CSIRO and the federal government to invest in the best teams and technologies linked to Australian public sector R&D. We will open the doors with A$100m shortly but, as reported, may take on some additional capital as well.

My decision to join was made much easier by the lure of working with such uniquely qualified partners as Bill and Phil, as well as the ambitious mandate of the fund. Having seen the value of public sector research up close with BuildingIQ and Propeller Aero (both of whom have leveraged IP from CSIRO), and been a mentor in a few of the ON! Programs, I believe strongly in the commercial potential that sits with our world-leading scientists and researchers.

While there will lots of challenges along the way, I’m unashamedly optimistic that this is the right time, right place and right market focus. Combined with all the constructive efforts in the early stage #startupaus ecosystem (ON!, Cicada, StartMate, 500 Startups etc), the growing pool of local and international investment capital $ interested in Australian deep tech, and the fact that more and more talented people in Australia (and abroad) are excited about founding or joining a startup here, the timing couldn’t be better to launch Main Sequence.

More to come…in the meantime, I look forward to working with you!