David Porter, Managing Partner at Wolf Ventures, is driven by a desire to invest in technologies that make the world a better place. This focus led him to explore frontier technologies in the climate and health sectors. Completing VC Catalyst reinforced this path forward.

A catalyst for growth

David signed up for VC Catalyst with clear objectives: to broaden his network and take full advantage of its structured learning approach.

‘VC Catalyst presented an exceptional opportunity for me to step back from the daily grind and broaden my network within an incredible cohort across the VC Catalyst alumni community,’ he said.

One of the most significant aspects of the program for David was his introduction to its vibrant community. With access to more than 160 like-minded individuals committed to strengthening the Australian VC landscape, he found himself in a rich learning environment that challenged his thinking and refined his investment approach. David was impressed, he says, by the VC Catalyst speakers and mentors, especially lead facilitator Rachael Neumann. ‘Racheal’s generosity in sharing her insights, backed by real-world experiences and practical resources, proved invaluable.’

Building bridges and driving impact

Since completing the program, David has continued to engage with VC Catalyst alumni, meeting for coffees, attending and hosting events and discussing due diligence on co-investment opportunities.

‘It’s a small venture community, and since March, we’ve started a new fund relationship with Possible Ventures. Simon from Possible Ventures, who led one of the sessions within the VC Catalyst program, shares the same investment focus as Wolf Ventures,’ David notes.

His commitment to investing that renews the health of people and the planet remains steadfast. Wolf Ventures has kicked off new VC fund relationships in the health sector, supporting innovative startups like Matterworks, which spun out of MCRI. ‘Our goal is to invest into the frontiers that drive and shape the biggest improvements to the way we live on this planet. When we have a successful investment, the returns are win-win,’ David emphasises.

Spotlighting remarkable founders

In his journey, David has encountered numerous extraordinary founders. Among the most impressive is Blake Hall, founder of ID.me, a digital identification verification platform in the USA. ‘Blake is a fantastic role model for any founder,’ David says. Starting ID.me in 2010 as a small-scale solution for returning military veterans to access government services, the platform now verifies IDs for more than 130 million people and employs thousands.

David is also inspired by later-stage ventures like Voyager Space Holdings, which made global headlines by winning the contract to build the next International Space Station. These groundbreaking ideas and dedicated founders exemplify the potential of frontier technologies to make significant, positive impacts.

Looking forward

David’s experience in VC Catalyst has not only broadened his network but also reinforced his commitment to supporting health and climate tech initiatives. As he looks ahead, he is eager to leverage his learnings to empower transformative founders and drive meaningful change in these critical sectors.

For David, his journey with VC Catalyst is just the beginning of his venture capital career.