Sydney Sykes

Sydney Sykes is a Partner at Lightspeed Venture Partners, focusing on consumer investments.1 She joined the firm's Consumer practice as a Partner in 2022 after working with Lightspeed for several years as a Scout.1

Background and Experience

Sydney's career in venture capital began at New Enterprise Associates (NEA), where she worked as an Investment Analyst from 2016 to 2018.3 During her time at NEA, she developed a passion for consumer startups and gained experience in angel investing.1

Education

Sydney graduated from Harvard University, where she studied Psychology and Economics.1 She later attended Stanford Graduate School of Business for her MBA.3

Notable Achievements

BLCK VC Co-Founder: Sydney co-founded BLCK VC, the largest network of Black Venture Capital investors focused on increasing Black representation in VC.1 She led the organization as co-CEO for five years, growing it to a multi-million dollar annual budget with a reach of over 20,000 people.13

Forbes Recognition: Sydney has been recognized in the Forbes VC 30 Under 30 list.2

Investment Focus

At Lightspeed, Sydney primarily focuses on:

• Consumer startups
• Commerce and retail
• Marketplaces
• Tools for small businesses5

She is particularly interested in companies that are customer-driven and have a deep understanding of their target audience.4

Personal Interests

Outside of her professional life, Sydney's main hobby is sewing. She enjoys designing and making her own clothes, viewing it as an important creative outlet.1