Notion Capital, a London-based venture capital firm specializing in B2B SaaS investments, has introduced a new initiative aimed at startup operators seeking leadership growth. The programme, called Upstarts, is designed to equip emerging leaders with the skills and network to navigate the challenges of scaling companies. With the backing of established firms like Sage, Canva, VC Talent Lab, and Latham & Watkins, the initiative seeks to fill a gap in leadership training for high-performing individuals in the tech sector. The first cohort consists of 20 senior operators from Notion Capital’s portfolio companies, reflecting the programme’s selective nature.
Similar initiatives have emerged in the past, with startup-focused leadership programmes gaining traction among venture capital firms. However, many existing programmes primarily target founders rather than high-level operators within startups. Upstarts differentiates itself by emphasizing the specific needs of these key players, who often take on increasing responsibilities as their companies grow. Unlike traditional accelerator programmes, which focus on early-stage growth, this initiative is designed to support individuals already embedded in the scaling process.
What is Upstarts and who benefits from it?
Upstarts is a 10-week remote leadership programme tailored for top-tier startup operators who are navigating the complexities of rapid business growth. The programme provides mentorship from investors, insights from industry leaders, and access to an extensive professional network. Participants engage in structured sessions that focus on leadership, operations, scaling, and investment strategies.
Stephen Millard, Partner at Notion Capital, stated, “Startup leadership positions can become intense and lonely jobs, where key individuals shoulder the toughest challenges to drive outsized value for their businesses.”
The aim is to help these professionals handle increasing responsibilities while maintaining efficiency in high-growth environments. The initial cohort consists of VP and Director-level operators from companies such as Cogna, TechWolf, and Quantum Systems, all of whom were nominated by their respective founders or CEOs.
How is Upstarts structured and what does it offer?
The programme is divided into four key tracks: Leading, Operating, Scaling, and Investing. Participants engage in regular 90-minute sessions every two weeks, featuring masterclasses and case studies from experienced professionals who have scaled businesses like MessageLabs, Intacct, and Intercom. The initiative began with an in-person launch event at Canva’s London headquarters.
Duncan Clark, Head of Europe at Canva, commented, “Upstarts creates a much-needed space for startup leaders to connect, learn, and grow; helping them to scale with confidence and creativity.”
This structured approach aims to bridge the gap between operational expertise and leadership development, particularly for those who are integral to their startups’ success but may not yet have a clear path for career progression.
Notion Capital, with over $1 billion in assets under management, has a history of investing in SaaS companies such as GoCardless and Paddle. The firm has also initiated other talent-oriented programmes, including Included VC, which supports individuals from underrepresented backgrounds in venture capital. Upstarts aligns with Notion Capital’s broader efforts to cultivate leadership within the startup ecosystem.
Michelle Cheng, Talent Director at Notion Capital, remarked, “The startup operator journey is not for the faint of heart, but it doesn’t need to be as lonely as it currently is.”
Notion Capital plans to expand the programme beyond its initial group, allowing more senior startup professionals to participate in future cohorts. Applications for the next cycle are expected to open soon, providing additional opportunities for those looking to accelerate their leadership trajectory.
Leadership development in fast-growing startups remains a challenge, particularly for operators who take on crucial responsibilities beyond their original roles. While founders often receive resources and mentorship, key team members handling operational complexities frequently lack structured support systems. Upstarts seeks to address this gap by offering targeted guidance and networking opportunities. As competition in the SaaS industry intensifies, programmes like Upstarts may play a role in strengthening leadership pipelines, ultimately influencing the growth and stability of scaling businesses.
