How has VCs’ interest in crypto evolved?
In the early days of crypto venture capital, around 2012 to 2017, the landscape was defined by a sense of both wild optimism and uncertainty. VC firms were drawn to the untapped potential of blockchain technology, often investing in networks that promised transformative solutions but lacked substantial frameworks to bring these visions to life.
At this stage, investors frequently prioritized projects based on their potential for explosive growth, overlooking business metrics or the viability of the technology they were producing. The due diligence process was relatively minimal, leading to heightened volatility and, in some cases, project downfalls, even those that garnered substantial funding.
Market excitement led to a culture of speculation, where investments were sometimes made on a gut feeling rather than a thorough analysis of the technology stack or market fit.
This environment attracted not just seasoned VC funds and investors but newcomers eager to participate in what seemed like a gold rush. As a result, projects and networks emerged with ambitious whitepapers and unrealistic promises. Yet few had the expertise and guidance to deliver on their claims.
As the markets matured, the shortcomings of early VC strategies became clear. To save face, many marquee VC firms that had only dipped their toes into blockchain quickly pulled out of the industry altogether. However, this paved the way for a more cautious and strategic approach focusing on real-world applications, infrastructure, and emerging technologies that provided a sense of stability and sustainability to the crypto market.
This shift reflects a broader trend in VC funding where investors increasingly evaluate what a project and network can provide beyond a concrete product or solution. Societal and environmental impact are becoming more important to VCs as they aim to support blockchain projects that bring communities together.
