London-based Notion Capital, an early-stage B2B SaaS venture capital firm, has launched “Upstarts”, an intensive 10-week remote programme for “top 1 per cent of up-and-coming” operators.
The programme features sessions led by executives, mentorship from investors, and access to a global industry network.
Backed by Sage, Canva, VC Talent Lab and Latham & Watkins, Upstarts was launched on January 30 at Canva’s European headquarters in London.
Stephen Millard, Partner at Notion Capital, says, “Startup leadership positions can become intense and lonely jobs, where key individuals shoulder the toughest challenges to drive outsized value for their businesses. This imbalance is known as ‘Price’s Law’: a small number of individuals are responsible for driving a majority of the value.”
“Startups operate at extreme levels of growth with limited resources. With only 1 in 200 startups making it to £100M ARR, Price’s Law People are arguably some of the most valuable people in tech.”
Millard adds, “The result is that Founders come to rely on their best operators, promoting them into ever more challenging roles. These individuals take on the hardest jobs, navigating extreme ambiguity and breakneck pace. But as the company propels forward – thanks to their efforts – the skills that once made them indispensable can suddenly leave them without a clear path forward.”
“Therefore, Notion Capital created Upstarts, the first programme of its kind, by operators, for operators, dedicated to connecting and preparing the next generation of startup leaders in Europe for the common pitfalls of scaling.”
Upstarts: Everything you need to know
Notion Capital launched Upstarts, a programme designed by operators for operators to support the next generation of startup leaders in Europe. The programme focuses on preparing participants for challenges in scaling by providing connections and insights from experienced professionals.
Aaron Harris, CTO of Sage, says, “As a member of Intacct’s founding team I understand first-hand the challenges and rewards of scaling a business from the ground up. Empowering startup leaders with the skills and confidence to navigate pivotal moments is not just about their individual success—it’s about creating a ripple effect that drives innovation and strengthens the broader tech ecosystem, including the small and medium-sized businesses they serve.”
“The ‘Upstarts’ programme reflects Sage’s commitment to fostering innovation and enabling businesses to thrive. By investing in these leaders, we’re helping to shape a future where SMBs and startups alike are built on bold ideas and resilient leadership that will shape the industry for years to come.”
A 10-week programme, Upstarts is designed to help startup leaders navigate the challenges of growth.
The first cohort includes 20 Director and VP-level operators from Notion Capital’s portfolio, representing SaaS companies such as Cogna, TechWolf, and Quantum Systems. Each participant was nominated by their company’s Founder or CEO.
The programme combines masterclasses, case studies, and insights from experienced operators who have scaled and exited companies such as MessageLabs, Currencycloud, Intacct, Intercom, and Yext.
Upstarts’ programme also includes an in-person launch and biweekly 90-minute sessions. It is structured into four tracks: Leading, Operating, Scaling, and Investing.
Duncan Clark, Head of Europe at Canva, adds, “At Canva, we believe in giving individuals and organisations the tools they need to succeed, and we’re thrilled to support Notion Capital’s Upstarts programme.”
“Initiatives like this are key in fostering the development of tomorrow’s leaders. Upstarts creates a much-needed space for startup leaders to connect, learn, and grow; helping them to scale with confidence and creativity. We’re proud to be hosting the initiative at our London HQ and excited to be involved in upcoming workshops.”
Brief about Notion Capital
Notion Capital is a European B2B SaaS and Cloud VC firm with over $1B in assets under management and more than 100 investments. The team previously founded, built, and exited SaaS companies Star and MessageLabs.
The firm invests in founders aiming to build global category leaders, with portfolio companies including GoCardless, Mews, Paddle, Unbabel, and YuLife. Notion also founded Included VC, a fellowship supporting individuals from diverse and overlooked communities in venture capital.
Speaking about its latest programme, ‘Upstarts’, Talent Director at Notion Capital, Michelle Cheng, says, “The startup operator journey is not for the faint of heart, but it doesn’t need to be as lonely as it currently is. As one of the less than 2 per cent of operator-led VCs, Notion created Upstarts, the first programme of its kind – by operators, for operators – dedicated to connecting and preparing the next generation of startup leaders in Europe for the common pitfalls of scaling.”
Notion Capital plans to expand Upstarts beyond its initial cohort in the next cycle, offering more SaaS leaders the chance to develop skills, build connections, and advance their careers. Those interested can fill out a form to be notified about the next cohort.
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