Aakash Shah

Aakash Shah is a Venture Partner at Orange Collective, an investment club founded by Y Combinator (YC) alumni to back the next generation of YC founders.23 As a Venture Partner, Aakash is responsible for identifying and evaluating investment opportunities in promising startups.4

In addition to his role at Orange Collective, Aakash has a diverse background in entrepreneurship and venture capital:

Professional Experience

• Co-Founder of NeonVest: Aakash is a co-founder of this venture.
• Partner at Peak Sustainability Ventures: He works with this early-stage sustainability VC firm focusing on climate, water, agriculture, and new energy.1
• Previous Roles:
  • Headed the early-stage ventures arm at Sattva Capital
  • Co-head of Accion Ventures Lab
  • Held investment roles at Contrarian Drishti Partners and Aksia

Education

Aakash holds a Bachelor of Science in Finance and International Business from NYU Stern.1

Entrepreneurial Involvement

Aakash is actively involved in the startup ecosystem. In the Winter 2023 batch at Orange Collective, he participated in making 14 investments, and expressed excitement about ramping up their investment activities.3

Expertise

Given his background, Aakash likely brings expertise in:

• Early-stage investing
• Sustainability and climate tech
• Financial analysis and due diligence
• Startup mentoring and support

His diverse experience across various venture capital firms and focus areas positions him well to identify and nurture promising startups, particularly those emerging from the Y Combinator program.