Lauren Weymouth

Lauren Weymouth is a Senior Director at Ripple, where she leads the University Blockchain Research Initiative (UBRI) that funds financial technology curriculum development, research, technical projects, entrepreneurship, and student activities. Since launch, she has activated more than 60 global university partnerships, driving 1,600+ research projects in blockchain, cryptocurrency, cryptography, and digital assets. She hosts the Webby award-winning podcast All About Blockchain. Previously, Lauren held leadership roles in education, private equity, and at technology startups, pioneering ventures that grew record-setting profits.

What drew you to Oxonian Ventures?

Several of my MBA classmates, including Fund General Partner, Cameron Turner are investors in Oxonian Ventures. This common background fosters a level of trust and uniquely supportive environment within the Fund. It is a genuine community where founders and investors are more willing to help each other.

Are there characteristics that you think give Oxonian founders and Oxonian Ventures an edge?

Oxford is a global epicenter for deep tech, life sciences, and humanities-driven innovation. The talent, research, and ambition coming out of Oxford are second to none and this reputation gives Oxonian founders an advantage. With Oxonian Ventures focusing on startups derived from Oxford, we get early access to ventures spinning out of world-renowned research labs and academic departments. The Oxford network is a powerful tool for vetting founders and ideas as we can tap into a network of trusted professors, researchers, and fellow alumni for expert opinions via an "inside track" that provides a level of insight that is invaluable. This pre-vetted talent pool and reputation creates a self-reinforcing cycle of high-quality deal flow.

What is an important takeaway from your time at Oxford?

The power and stickiness of my network is a big takeaway from my time at Oxford. Oxonian Ventures has given me the opportunity to stay connected to my community in a tangible way and has provided a unique, curated view to some of the most exciting, emerging breakthroughs.

Advice for Oxonians considering becoming an LP?

Community focused funds are compelling. For me, Oxonian Ventures aligns my financial goals with a shared legacy and strategic vision for the future. LPs can contribute to this shared network that operates as a diligence tool and we get the opportunity to participate by being invited to monthly pitch meetings and with a front row seat to the emerging future.

By investing in alumni startups, you also contribute to enhancing the University's reputation for entrepreneurship which in turn attracts further talent. It is another way to pay it forward to the next generation of innovators while participating in the financial upside of their success. It feels like philanthropy with the potential for venture-scale returns.