MBR ISSUE 44

Malta Business Review
VENTURE CAPITAL
VENTURE CAPITAL FIRMS, INCUBATORS OF DISRUPTIVE IDEAS
“In today’s hyperlinked world, solving problems
anywhere, solves problems everywhere.” These
words by renowned entrepreneur Peter H.
Diamandis couldn’t have been more relatable. Some
of the key businesses that drive our lives today are
startups which have leveraged technology to create
globally-replicable solutions. Be it an Uber or an
Airbnb, disruptive ideas have scaled into universal
verbs on the back of technology.
As VC firms continue to fund technology-led
businesses, I sometimes wonder if the data and
infotech sector has reached its saturation point. But
Matrix Partners India MD, Avnish Bajaj says we can
only expect more innovation in the future, adding,
“Things are still nascent in India when it comes to
optimising the potential of the internet and mobile”.
Besides, considering the market right now is fertile
with ideas, this trend is only going to flourish.
Apart from technology, what drives the minds
behind these game-changing startups is the faith
in original thinking and the power of continuous
collaboration. A second home to such folks then,
must reflect these values with open, inspiring spaces.
It must be high on the approachable factor not only
to communicate the company's 'inviting' philosophy
to visitors, but also to help team members absorb
the core essence of the world of venture capitalists.
The role of VC professionals has now evolved
into one of value-addition partners. Beyond just
furnishing capital, they bring vision, belief and
guidance to take entrepreneurial passion to new
heights. Contemporary VC workspaces have been
incorporating this ethos into their design. The
tone for their team members and visitors alike
is set keeping this in mind - right from the colour
palette to more community spaces for ideation and
collaboration.
Another factor that has contributed to the new
design culture at VC offices is the fact that their
visitors are no longer limited to "safe sectors".
The likes of lifestyle brands like Chumbak have
transformed the universe of potential funded
businesses. They embody the vibrancy and freshness
of ideas in their spaces. This is why, a ping pong table
in the reception lounge, like at the Matrix Partners'
Mumbai office, is not an unusual sight. When future
founders walk into a VC office, they see a reflection
of how they envision their own company. Just like
Matrix Partners' “Founders First” philosophy, a spirit
of openness towards new entrepreneurs is integral
to VC firms all over. A case in point is Sequoia
Capital’s Silicon Valley office, modelled to serve as
“an office that lets guests feel at home.”
The second wave of changes will further cement
the shift in the funded-funder relationship. VC
offices will also have to mirror their visitors’ passion
for groundbreaking technology if they are to invite
the most disruptive business ideas. VCs have been
cultivating a growing preference for funding startups
that leverage augmented and virtual reality, artificial
intelligence, and human experience design. When
designing VC workspaces of the future, I believe the
following aspects will play a key role:
Courtesy: Photographix | Sebastian Zachariah
• AI-enabled insights and environment
• Virtual reality zones that allow visitors to
showcase their business vision
• Human experience design that appeals to
design partners
• Cues from pop culture that communicate VC
professionals' inclination towards business
that have changed lifestyles globally. For
instance, an OTT platform entrepreneur will
want to partner with a professional who is
well-versed with highbrow content on Netflix
and Amazon Prime Video.
To sum it up, VC offices are set to go from being a
second home for technology-driven entrepreneurs
to becoming the home for disruptive experiences
and discussions. Their workspace design will thus
serve as a catalyst for developing relationships with
entrepreneurs who’re redesigning our future.
About Architect
Ninad Tipnis
Ninad is an architect by qualification from the
Academy of Architecture, Mumbai and the founder
of JTCPL Designs. Ninad’s enthusiasm for always
delivering the best pervades through the team and
his ability to thrive under pressure is an inspiration
in itself. More than a creative leader he is a great
motivator & a mentor to many in the field. His ideas
and insights have impacted the entire industry and
he has been recognized with distinguished awards
by renowned design bodies. MBR
Courtesy: Photographix | Sebastian Zachariah
• Presentation spaces that are compatible with
AR / VR technology
Creditline: Venture Capital
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