This is the second of four episodes in a special series dedicated to the 2025 NVCA Award Recipients. To learn more about the NVCA and their work in crafting the future of Venture Capital, visit their website at https://nvca.org/.
----
In this episode of The Innovators & Investors Podcast, host Kristian Marquez sits down with Chris Rizik, CEO of Renaissance Venture Capital and recipient of the NVCA’s Venture Vanguard Award.
Chris shares the origin story and unique investment thesis behind Renaissance, a fund of funds focused on connecting top venture capital firms nationwide with promising startups in Michigan.
He discusses how Renaissance overcame early skepticism by creating a “no rules” approach that encourages fund managers to explore local opportunities without restrictive mandates.
The conversation delves into the importance of strategic partnerships with Fortune 1000 companies and universities like the University of Michigan, which fuel innovation and economic growth in the region. Chris also reflects on his unconventional career path, lessons learned about trusting instincts, managing losses, and recognizing winning investments.
They explore how AI is reshaping venture capital dynamics, accelerating product development, and shifting competitive moats from technology to networks and customer relationships.
Finally, Chris highlights Renaissance’s signature Demo Day event in Detroit, which facilitates hundreds of meetings between local startups and national investors, and shares his passion for soul music and how it complements his professional life.
This episode offers a comprehensive look at regional venture capital, investment strategy, and the evolving landscape of innovation in Michigan and beyond.
Learn more about Chris's work at https://renvcf.com/ and learn about UnDemo Day at https://undemoday.com/
Connect with Chris on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-rizik-674300/
Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply at https://finstratmgmt.com/innovators-investors-podcast/
Want to learn more about Kristian Marquez's work? Check out his website at https://finstratmgmt.com
