Venture Capital Associate 🛡️
Front-row access to emerging trends is one of the most exciting and important parts of the venture capital experience. Being a VC associate comes with constant, hands-on learning – new technologies, new sectors, new business models – alongside those who expand the horizons of innovation. It’s a people-driven business backed by metrics.
We believe in protecting our shared future through tech innovation. Built on a unique strategic alliance between venture capital firm Presto Ventures and industrial and technology group CSG (Czechoslovak Group), Presto Tech Horizons backs the most promising resilience tech projects from NATO countries and allied nations.
We focus on companies developing advanced technologies to create a safer, more resilient future – from defense tech to deeptech and dual-use innovation. Check out our growing portfolio of the boldest, bravest innovators taking on the toughest challenges 🦾
At Presto, we run a lean, agile team of 15 people with a top performing attitude. We value solid, authentic connections, and that comes hand in hand with responsibility – towards our founders, investors, and each other. It’s what drives us to bring our best to the table, and we expect nothing less from those around us. This is your opportunity to shape what’s coming.
👉🏼At Presto, a VC associate is:
Proactive and independent
Grit, resourcefulness, and a self-starter mindset? Perfect combo. You should be comfortable working with a relatively low level of supervision and without the need for constant input and support.
Tech-savvy and curious
You’re passionate about emerging tech, and want to immerse yourself in it full-time. Ideally, you have a background in engineering, data science, or computer science. You can bridge the gap between technical complexities and business insights.
Analytical and rigorous
You’re comfortable working with numbers and have a keen eye for detail. You can draw insights from data and articulate them clearly.
Bold and outspoken
When you have something to say, you speak up. Our Investment team thrives on open, transparent, no-BS communication.
Presto
Quick to think and execute, without compromising on quality. Got international experience? Fluent in multiple languages? Former athletic champion or a talented musician? Ambition and excellence come in handy 👌🏼
👉🏼To join our team, you should be excited to:
Source and scout | 20%
Search for founders who build solutions tackling the most complex security and industrial challenges – both online and at leading industry conferences. Map and research market verticals to find hidden gems and future winners.
Assess | 20%
Conduct initial screening by meeting founding teams. Gain full understanding of their products and business models, then debrief with the Investment team.
Research | 20%
Thoroughly research the industry of the assessed startups, including their market and product proposition. Present your findings to the Investment team.
Follow the investment life cycle | 20%
Make the best of your front-row access to the lifecycle of a deal: from the initial deck review and founders intro, through deep dive research and due diligence, to the investment transaction itself. Get close to board meetings, future rounds, and even exits.
Support | 20%
Support the team in managing our funds and the growing portfolio – from fundraising and reporting to marketing and portfolio activities – and learn how a VC firm operates.
👉🏼 To shine in the Associate role, you’ll need:
Native-level Czech or Slovak, plus excellent English
University degree – or exceptional talent (dropouts welcome)
Technical, engineering, or biomedical background (preferred, not required)
Strong advantage: hands-on experience in venture capital or having launched a startup
👉🏼At Presto you can look forward to:
Fast learning and rapid growth
If you’re looking to learn at a rapid pace and fast-track your career, you’ve arrived. Learn from seasoned investors and industry insiders. Travel to leading events, conferences, and startup summits. Mingle with the smartest people in the field, the movers and the shakers.
Making an impact
We’re a rapidly evolving company with a flat hierarchy. Everyone on the team has the opportunity (and responsibility) to shape our success – as well as their own. Pull up your sleeves, immerse yourself in the startup world, and sharpen your business acumen.
A solid home base
Offices located in the heart of downtown Prague. Enjoy an always-stocked fridge and snack drawer, along with an unlimited supply of coffee. Take advantage of our rooftop patio, complete with a Green Egg grill and stunning views of Prague.
Ready to boost your VC career? Send us your CV or LinkedIn profile and let us know why you’re interested in joining the Presto investment team.
One of our teammates will get in touch with you. You’ll get to chat with your future peers and complete an online assessment. Cheers and talk soon ✌🏼