Today, we are joined by David Dana.

David is the Head of VC Investments at the European Investment Fund, leading the Disruptive Tech & Innovation VC Team with 10 investment professionals. He contributed to developing the new #InvestEU financing program of the EU, aiming at ensuring the technological sovereignty of Europe.

Previously, he has been in charge of EIF investments in VC funds in France, Israel, and of the Luxembourg Future Fund. David was also overviewing EIF activities with Accelerators. Over 15 years, invested +€3.5B of capital in over 120 VC funds, mainly following deeptech strategies. Previously, spent 6 years as investment professional at SGAM AI Funds of Funds and senior advisor Corporate Finance at PWC.

David is also a regular contributor to podcasts and speaker at industry events, expert in deeptech fields such as AI, Space, Web 3.0, Blockchain, Quantum Technologies, Semiconductors, Tech Transfer.

Go to eu.vc for our core learnings and the full video interview 👀

Chapters:

04:03 Initial Thoughts on Emerging Managers
04:35 Evaluating Added Value and Differentiation
07:28 Challenges with Deep Tech Investments
07:50 Assessing Company Performance and KPIs
09:52 Co-Investors and Market Feedback
10:29 First Meeting and Initial Questions
11:29 Track Record and Full Cycle Experience
12:43 Challenges with Exits in Europe
14:38 Diligence and Replicability of Exits
16:13 VC Management Experience
17:47 Fund Models and Financial Theory
20:20 Importance of a Strong Fund Model
22:31 Submitting Proposals to EIF
24:10 Combining Skills Within a Team
27:42 Due Diligence for Second and Third Time Funds
33:20 Advice for Emerging Managers