Pushkaraj Kalkar

About

Sourcing-focused early-stage VC operator who stays embedded in high-signal founder ecosystems (YC/Techstars-style accelerators, state programs, investor Slack/angel networks) and runs a curated community of ~45 VCs to drive consistent deal flow. Uses a structured, metrics-driven outbound and screening process (25 reachouts/week; 5–8 calls) plus Airtable-based pipeline management and n8n follow-up automation; has advanced sourced deals (e.g., rare earth materials, quantum/grid optimization, plasma fuel for fusion) into pitch sessions and late-stage diligence.

Key Strengths

• High-volume founder sourcing with defined weekly targets (25 new reachouts; 5–8 screening calls/week)
• Strong ecosystem access (accelerators, state-backed programs, investor Slack groups, angel networks)
• Value-first, highly specific outbound that avoids generic messaging
• Systematic pipeline tracking and prioritization (Airtable stages, flags, next actions, owners)
• Fast follow-up discipline (dedicated follow-up blocks; same/next-day responses for high-priority deals)
• Ability to build cold relationships into active pipeline by adding technical and narrative value (quantum/grid optimization example)
• Structured founder discovery focused on founder quality, stage/proof, defensibility/IP, and GTM beachhead clarity
• Clear internal communication to drive decisions (partner updates with top deals, risks, next steps, and pass rationale)
• Demonstrated sourcing-to-diligence progression leading to near-investment (rare earth materials startup; final diligence stage)

Experience

Education

Awards

• CFA Institute Equity Research Challenge Winner - New York Region (2025)
• Excellence Award - Lantern Point Labs (2025)
• BASF Corporate Governance Award (2022)

Skills

Languages

Certifications

Memberships

• CFA Institute