Earnest Sweat

Podcast Host

2023 - Current

Venture Capitalist

2023

I'm dedicated to refining my craft as an early-stage VC. I'm nurturing relationships with fellow GPs and LPs by engaging in discussions with potential platforms while exploring partnership opportunities. I continue executing SPVs through the Public School Ventures pledge fund. My primary focus remains on early-stage value chain tech investments, encompassing Vertical SaaS, Middleware, Applied AI, and Marketplaces at the Seed, Series A, and Series B stages.

Class 26

2021 - 2023

I graduated from the Kauffman Fellowship, a two-year executive education program that identifies and develops global leaders in VC.

Venture Partner

2022 - 2023

Partner

2019 - 2022

As a continuation of my journey in pioneering new investing practices within established platforms, I joined GreatPoint Ventures. As a firm that had deep expertise in Digital Health and Deep Tech, I took the lead in developing an impactful SaaS practice, centered around B2B opportunities within the application and integration layers. I served on the boards of Klearnow, Bit.io, and BookOutdoors. During my tenure at GreatPoint Ventures, I lead partnerships with entrepreneurs in: KlearNow (Series A): Transforming customs clearance with cutting-edge technology. Ananda Networks (Seed, acquired by VM Ware): Pioneering innovative networking solutions for the digital age. Cooler Screens (Series C): Revolutionizing the retail experience through digital cooler displays. Bit.io (Seed, acquired by Databricks): Enabling collaborative data solutions for the modern era. BookOutdoors (Seed): Connecting outdoor adventure seekers with memorable experiences.

Board Director

2017 - 2022

BLCK VC connects, engages, empowers, and advances black venture investors by providing a focused community built for and by black investors.

Principal, Prologis Ventures

2016 - 2019

As the inaugural external hire at Prologis Ventures, I built groundbreaking corporate venture investing practices within an established public real estate company platform. Prologis Ventures primarily focused on Seed to Series B companies innovating foundational industries such as real estate, retail, and logistics. I served on the boards of Flexe, Platform Science, Airspace Technologies, Wise Systems, and Sendoso. During my tenure, I partnered with transformative founding teams such as: Flexport (Series B): Revolutionizing global trade with cutting-edge technology. Flexe (Series A): Transforming warehousing and logistics with flexibility. Platform Science (Series A): Pioneering connected vehicle solutions. Sendoso (Series B): Reinventing business gifting and engagement. ClearMetal (Series A, acquired by project44): Driving supply chain transparency and efficiency. Wise Systems (Seed): Shaping the future of delivery logistics. Being the first external hire at Prologis Ventures, my role further fueled my passion for early-stage investing and cemented my commitment to nurturing innovation in established sectors.

Consultant

2013 - 2014

The Bridgespan Group is a consulting firm that advises social enterprise leaders to make strategic decisions and build organizations that improve the world.

Founder & CEO

2010 - 2013

MERIT is an online marketplace that provides college advisory and mentor services to students. After four years in operation, an NPO in Arkansas acquired MERIT's curriculum, technology, and rights to its extensive 150 professional mentor network.

Equity Research Analyst

2007 - 2011

At BMO Capital Markets, I launched my career as an Equity Research Associate, specializing in Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs). In this role, I provided in-depth analysis and coverage of over 40 public REIT stocks spanning various sectors, including multifamily, office, retail, and more. My primary objective was to uncover alpha for financial institutions and institutional investors through my stock recommendations. During this time, I developed and honed crucial skills: Thesis Development: I excelled at building persuasive investment theses, informed by extensive research and analysis. Effective Communication: I adeptly communicated these theses, both in written and verbal forms, leveraging insights gained from conversations with public company executives and comprehensive research. Market Expertise: I continuously monitored micro and macro trends, assessing their impact on real estate markets globally, and shared valuable insights with clients.