Notation Capital

Katherine Wu

Principal

My name is Katherine, and I am an investor at Notation Capital, a New York based venture-capital fund that focuses on investing in pre-seed stage startups. I have lived in NYC for the past 8 years, but I grew up moving between California, Kunming, and Hong Kong. I am fluent in English, Mandarin, and (some) Cantonese.

I started my early career in law, and after going to law school and obtaining my J.D degree,  did a 180 and joined a venture-backed startup in NYC as a Business Development lead. My path in venture capital was totally unplanned, but I love what I do now, and am always open to new ideas and meeting new people!

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Notable Investments
Questions & Answers

Origin Story: In a couple sentences, how would you describe your path to becoming an investor?

Looking back at my career path, I've always been driven by *who* I wanted to work and build with-- and that's lead me from law to crypto to venture capital. I work best in a supportive environment, and truly believe that great working relationships and authenticity can truly bring out the best in people. That's a big reason why I enjoy my job as an early-stage investor, because the relationship with entrepreneurs is collaborative and supportive.

Investment Approach: What are the key factors you consider when evaluating a founding team?

Team (background and execution style), Market, Timing

What's your style and approach when it comes to working with founders post-investment? What are the characteristics of founders you've worked well with?

I work best with founders who are truly passionate about solving the problem. Generally speaking, all of us at Notation work quite closely with our founders- as "day 0" investors, we make selective and concentrated bets and strive to be the best support system to entrepreneurs we partner with.

If I'm coming to pitch to you or your firm, what's the one piece of advice you'd give me?

Be authentic, and don't ever sell yourself short!

How would you describe your own personal mission and values, and how do they impact the way you invest?

The three values that I hold in high regard are authenticity, passion, and reliability. I look for these values in founders and get really excited when I meet someone who is truly excited about solving a problem and building; who are thoughtful in their approach; and can be comfortable with uncertainty and saying "I don't know".

One other really big driver for me personally is thinking about the impact that I can make. Diversity in tech (especially at the founder/ CEO level) has long been a serious issue, and I am deeply committed to uplifting and funding underrepresented founders.

What do you like best about investing in NYC, and what’s your outlook on the future of NYC tech?

As someone who has spent her entire adult life in NYC, I've been exposed to countless incredible and interesting people in so many different industries. One of the best and most magical things about NYC is the creativity and diversity in its communities. Looking back, the NYC tech scene has really transformed and grown, and I think this is only the beginning. As a primarily NYC- focused firm, we have long supported NYC- based entrepreneurs, and are excited to continue partnering with more NYC founders in the many years to come!