The Importance of Community

Particularly During Crises

The events of the past few months, and certainly the escalation over the past few weeks have many of us searching for connection, deeper meaning and community.

I have been fortunate to be a part of two very special communities over the past years with Kauffman Fellows and StartX. Kauffman fosters leaders in the world of venture capital and StartX supports Stanford University’s top entrepreneurs.

I was reminded of the power of these networks and communities yesterday when I attended the Kauffman Fellows virtual module focusing on Covid-19 and the current state of markets. Over 200 Fellows joined via Zoom worldwide; and for a few hours I felt more connected than ever (and all from the comfort of my basement office in sweatpants!). We engaged with leaders in our field and medical experts with the singular focus of finding how we can each contribute in this novel landscape.

While the content falls under the rules of “Kauffman Confidential” I ended day 1 of the 2 day module feeling more determination than ever and a feeling of sincere optimism. For me, there is no greater purpose than working with and supporting entrepreneurs. It is a privilege to do this each day with my partners at Prime Movers Lab — in the good times and in the challenging times as well. And while this is a somber time for many across the world, great things will be molded and born out of our struggle.

Connecting with my Kauffman community underscored the very important role we have to play as stewards of capital and supporters of innovation during this crisis. It energized me to think deeply from a place of first principles and act boldly. Communities, in all their forms, connect us as humans and challenge us to be bigger than our individual selves; allowing us to accomplish more together than we ever could on our own.

Prime Movers Lab invests in breakthrough scientific startups founded by Prime Movers, the inventors who transform billions of lives. We invest in companies reinventing energy, transportation, infrastructure, manufacturing, human augmentation, and agriculture.

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