Chip Meakem

Origin Story: In a couple sentences, how would you describe your path to becoming an investor?

I started one of the first ad networks on the web back in 1996.  That eventually became a public company called 24/7 Media.  I used that experience to move to the investor side as an early stage focused VC.
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Investment Approach: What are the key factors you consider when evaluating a founding team?

Chemistry, clarity, determination, grit
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What's your style and approach when it comes to working with founders post-investment? What are the characteristics of founders you've worked well with?

I help any way I can but try not to interfere.  I am a direct person.  I work well with founders who tell it like it is. We all spend too much time positioning amongst ourselves
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If I'm coming to pitch to you or your firm, what's the one piece of advice you'd give me?

Sales, in all its forms, is about the first 10 minutes of the meeting
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How would you describe your own personal mission and values, and how do they impact the way you invest?

It's crazy that in 2020 you can predict the socio-economic outcome of a child's life with something link 80% accuracy based solely on their zip code.  We need to level the national playing field.  Technology is the best way to do this.
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What do you like best about investing in NYC, and what’s your outlook on the future of NYC tech?

First, because NYC has such a diverse economy and essentially ever market in the world is being disrupted by tech we see a wide range of companies across markets and tech's.  Second, proximity matters.  Not for board meetings, but for white board sessions to work through strategic issues, a cup of coffee to catch up, etc.  While we all have to work through near term issues with COVID, longer term NY Tech is unstoppable at this point!