On February 6th, the Nicholas Center hosted Jake Smith (MBA ‘18) for a virtual conversation on venture capital. In addition to sharing insights on the industry, Jake spoke candidly about career pivots, following evolving interests, and building a path that reflects both curiosity and conviction. Jake is a Partner at Cannage Capital where he invests in early-stage companies across complex, high-growth sectors including AI, data-driven healthcare, and cybersecurity.
From Biochemistry to Business
Jake grew up in Oconomowoc, Wisconsin, and—like many undergraduates—arrived at UW–Madison with a clear plan: he was going to be a doctor. He majored in Biochemistry and Global Health, but over time his interests shifted. That shift ultimately led him to the Wisconsin School of Business for his MBA, where he fully embraced the idea of the “pivot.”
During his MBA, Jake specialized in Corporate Finance, Investment Banking, and Entrepreneurship, taking advantage of every opportunity the program offered. He served as President of the Entrepreneurship & Consulting Club and won the ACG Investment Banking Competition alongside a team that embodied diversity of thought—a lawyer, a musician, and Jake, the biochemist. He also gained hands-on experience through consulting projects with American Family Insurance and the Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation (WARF), working on commercialization strategies for emerging technologies.
Building a Career in Venture Capital
For the past eight years, Jake has been building a career in the fast-paced world of Venture Capital. Before joining Cannage Capital as a Partner, he held roles at 30Ventures, Lewis & Clark Ventures, and gener8tor. What distinguishes Jake’s approach is how intentionally he leverages his scientific background. Rather than leaving his biochemistry training behind, he uses it as a competitive advantage—supporting founders tackling complex, technical challenges. His investment focus spans AI, data-driven health, and cybersecurity, and he serves on the boards of companies including Olli Health and BluePond AI.
Jake’s journey is a powerful reminder that a nontraditional background can be a tremendous asset in finance and entrepreneurship.
Staying Grounded
While his professional achievements in Silicon Valley are impressive, Jake remains grounded in the things that matter most. He resides in the Bay Area with his wife and their one-year-old daughter. Sharing a photo of his family during the presentation added a personal touch that resonated with students and underscored an important message: meaningful careers and fulfilling personal lives can grow side by side.
Advice for Students
Students asked thoughtful questions about breaking into venture capital, navigating uncertainty, and building credibility early in their careers. Jake emphasized the importance of intentional networking, finding mentors who challenge you, and staying open to opportunities that may not align with your original plan.
Sessions like this highlight the strength of the Wisconsin alumni network. Case studies are valuable but hearing directly from someone who once walked the same halls—and who openly shares the pivots, learning curves, and unexpected turns—makes career paths feel more tangible and attainable.
We are deeply grateful for Jake’s time, his openness, and his continued commitment to giving back to the Badger community.
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