Episode Description

e2 podcast: growth journeys from emerging ecosystems to global markets.

Deena Shakir is a partner at Lux Capital, a $2.4Bn stage and sector agnostic VC firm, that is looking to back mission driven entrepreneurs in frontier sectors. Deena is the first-generation daughter of immigrants from Iraq and has grown up in Silicon Valley, even before she realized she wanted a career in tech. A former journalist and then a diplomat, Deena led strategic partnerships for early stage products in health, research, machine learning and search at Google, before joining Google Ventures. At Lux she has led the fund’s investments in companies like Mos, Shiru and Neo.

In this episode, we delve into the fascinating world of frontier technology and the visionary approach Lux Capital takes in backing transformative companies. We explore what it means to invest in category-defining startups, the challenges and rewards of operating at the cutting edge of innovation, and the process of identifying game-changing opportunities.

The conversation sheds light on how Lux Capital supports entrepreneurs tackling the most ambitious problems in industries like deep tech, healthcare, and beyond. Whether you’re curious about venture capital, the future of technology, or the dynamics of scaling groundbreaking businesses, this episode provides valuable insights and inspiration.

What’s in this episode?

1) Lux Capital’s investment approach of investing in category defining, frontier sectors

2) The way to build conviction across different disciplines and stages

3) Coming from an immigrant family and the way that impacts your investment style

4) Discussion around impact investing vs investing in companies benefiting humanity

5) Looking for grit, ambition and discipline in founding teams

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