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Katelyn Donnelly

Managing Partner of Avalanche VC

Katelyn Donnelly is the Founder and Managing Partner of Avalanche VC, an early-stage venture capital firm investing in technology companies that transform how people learn, earn, and own.12

Professional Background

  • Founded Avalanche VC in 2020 and currently serves as Managing Partner1
  • Co-founder and Director at Delivery Associates, a public sector advisory firm, from 2013 to 2022
  • Previously co-founded and served as Managing Director of Pearson Ventures, a $65M EdTech venture fund2
  • Started her career as a consultant at McKinsey & Company from 2008 to 2011

Investment Focus

Avalanche VC invests early in companies focused on:

  • Education technology
  • Future of work
  • Financial technology
  • Web3 and cryptocurrency23

Education and Achievements

  • Graduated from Duke University with high distinction in Economics
  • Named to Forbes 30 Under 30 list in 20143
  • Recognized as a "Rising Star in Venture Capital" by Venture Capital Journal in 2022
  • Kauffman Fellow - Class 212

Additional Roles and Interests

  • Active in Web3 as a genesis member of VC3DAO and a Kernel Fellow3
  • Member of Duke University's Learning Innovation Advisory Council2
  • Writes a newsletter called "Declarative Statements" and "Obviously The Future"2
  • Interests include skiing, design appreciation, reading, and learning web development, letterpress, and kite surfing24

Katelyn has worked with governments and invested in companies in over 20 countries globally, bringing a broad international perspective to her venture capital work.3

Highlights

Oct 22 · twitter

Great to see Starbridge crush the government procurement @avalanchevc .

Proud earliest investor :)

Aug 14 · twitter

City finances and operations are a huge area for improved management and performance.

Great analysis on Austin’s now ~$6b 2026 budget proposal👇

Feb 4 · TechCrunch
Drain the swamp - TechCrunch
Apr 12 · WIRED
Pearson's Quest to Cover the Planet in Company-Run Schools - WIRED

Related Questions

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Katelyn Donnelly
Katelyn Donnelly, photo 1
Katelyn Donnelly, photo 2
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Experience

Managing Partner at Avalanche VC
Various companies: None, Delivery Associates, CodingDojo, Kauffman Fellows, Pearson, McKinsey, World Economic Forum, Duke University Union, Morgan Stanley, Red Bull

Education

Graduated with High Distinction in Economics from Duke University; Thesis: 'Time Zone Arbitrage in Vanguard International Mutual Funds'

Location

United States