The seminar "New Trends in Venture Capital: A Look into the Future", held by the ACVC in conjunction with the UAI Business School, had a great hybrid attendance, with more than 100 participants. Interesting presentations and a round table focused on the potential and opportunities that VC and corporate venture capital represent for Chile.
The event began with a presentation by Rodrigo Castro, Managing Partner of Genesis Ventures, where he gave an introduction to VC and how its development in the region, still in its early stages, represents a great opportunity for growth.
Then it was the turn of Sebastian Gonzalez, vice president of the ACVC and Head of Corporate Venturing & Innovation Services Wayra Hispam, who gave an introduction to the CVC, going through its evolution over time and the enormous possibilities it presents for large companies.
The conversation continued with a round table moderated by Juan Pablo Torres, vice dean of graduate studies at the UAI Business School, where the importance of pension funds being able to play an active role as VC investors was discussed, among other topics.
Magdalena Guzmán, executive director of the ACVC, said that although the industry has not finished its adjustment period, its future and its growth is quite auspicious. However, for this it is "crucial to commit more private capital", among which are the pension funds.
Francisco Guzmán, VP of investments at AFP Capital, agreed with the analysis and gave as an example the opportunities presented by the energy transition that the country is undergoing. In his opinion, it is not only possible to make large investments here, but also to enter the entire value chain, for which VC is an important vehicle. He also highlighted the level of development of the private equity industry in Chile.
Francisco Meneses, CFO of BancoEstado Corredora de Bolsa, pointed out all the progress that has been made in the creation of new vehicles to expand the industry, as well as the possible creation of a fund of funds.
Cristián Velasco, director of ACVC and Managing Partner of WeBoost, highlighted Chile as a possible entry country for international investors to Latam, and how this role can further boost the development of the VC industry locally.
All the panelists agreed on the importance of promoting this development through different strategies, including public policies and the development of human capital to enrich the ecosystem, among others.
They also invited those who wish to approach and deepen their knowledge of the VC industry to join the Diploma in Venture Capital that the ACVC and the UAI Business School will teach from July 5. More information at https://rb.gy/rp4sns
Check out DF's article on the day's activities here
