Molly Alter is a versatile individual with a diverse range of interests and experiences. She is a mockumentary filmmaker currently working on a project centered around an alternate reality where charades is a major industry. In addition, she is known for her expertise in Caesar salads, documenting rankings of various restaurant attempts on her blog called JULIUS, and is now a partner at Northzone.
Despite her unconventional path, Alter’s venture into venture capital stemmed from her upbringing in a creative environment involving theater and improv comedy. Her journey started with a company she founded at Harvard that filmed a capella concerts and dance recitals, eventually leading her to the world of VC.
Having started a company out of necessity, Alter’s venture evolved into a successful business with 27 employees. A pivotal moment came when she received a Facebook message from Insight Partners, inviting her to join their analyst program fresh out of Harvard.
Although she had envisioned starting another company, Alter found her calling in venture capital. She spent nearly five years at Insight before transitioning to Index Partners and eventually Northzone, where she focuses on vertical software investments.
Alter’s transition from entrepreneur to investor was a natural progression, fueled by her curiosity and passion for understanding how things work and how they can be improved. She sees her background in film as an asset, allowing her to make informed investment decisions based on her experiences.
As a VC, Alter appreciates the opportunity to delve deep into diverse subjects and build strong relationships with founders based on mutual trust and shared interests. She believes that her diverse background contributes to her success as an investor and helps her connect with founders on a deeper level.
With a focus on cutting through the noise in the AI landscape, Alter remains bullish on vertical software and is determined to identify startups with real potential. Despite the challenges she has faced in the industry, she is excited to continue her journey as a VC and is eager to meet founders and explore new opportunities.
For Alter, being a VC is more than just a job – it’s a passion that drives her to excel and seek out innovative opportunities. Her enthusiasm for the industry is evident, as she looks forward to each new week with excitement and determination.
