What Are VCs Looking For in 2026? | Matt Cohen (Ripple Ventures)

from Mantle Mondays · host Amar Varma and Amit Jethani

Raising venture capital in 2026 looks nothing like it did three years ago. Seed-strapped companies are hitting $6M ARR in six months. Pre-ChatGPT portfolios are re-platforming from scratch. Matt Cohen, Founder and Managing Partner of Ripple Ventures, has backed 55+ companies through 13 exits since launching the firm. He joins Amar Varma on Mantle Mondays to break down what's actually getting funded right now — and what isn't.00:00 Introduction to Venture Capital and Founder's Journey05:54 The Evolution of Ripple Ventures and Investment Philosophy12:09 The Importance of Long-Term Commitment in Venture Capital17:37 The Role of Founders in Shaping the Future of Technology23:41 Success Stories and Lessons Learned from Portfolio Companies31:12 Navigating AI and Infrastructure in Tech39:32 The Role of Relationships in Venture Capital44:2 Personal Insights and Community Engagement

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This episode was published on April 20, 2026.

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