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Overview

Gemba Capital's Scout Program is a deal sourcing initiative launched in 2022 that brings together excellent entrepreneurs, potential investors, and operators interested in early-stage startup investing. The program leverages scouts to identify promising companies while building their track records as early-stage investors.

Investment focus

Gemba Capital's Scout Program aims to formalize deal sourcing through a community of qualified scouts who identify and evaluate promising early-stage tech startups, particularly in FinTech and SaaS. The program focuses on building the scouts' expertise and track records in venture investing while contributing to Gemba's investment process.

Program details

Designed for Founders, Investors, Operators. The program is remote. Participation is generally part time.

Who it is for

Scout applicants typically include experienced entrepreneurs, early-stage investors, operators in relevant sectors, and individuals with FinTech or SaaS expertise.

Check if you are eligible

Check your eligibility for Gemba Capital Scout Program

Admissions and application

Prospective scouts submit applications to Gemba Capital, which are then evaluated by the Gemba Capital team for fit and capability. Selected scouts sign an agreement outlining responsibilities and incentives.

Benefits

Participants in the Scout Program gain access to training on investment evaluation and deal sourcing, build relationships within the startup ecosystem, and have the opportunity to develop a portfolio of identified companies.

Timeline

- Week 0: Application & 20‑minute interview
- Week 1: Digital onboarding, carry agreement & tool walk‑through
- Weeks 2‑12: First sourcing sprint, monthly feedback call
- Quarterly: Virtual (or in‑person) summit and retrospective
- Ongoing: Continuous deal flow, learning sessions and annual renewal discussion
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How to go about it

  1. Read what it asks for

    Who can apply, how people get in and whether it is open right now.

  2. Have something to show

    Programs pick people whose work they can already point to. Put yours where it can be found.

  3. Apply the way the program asks

    The program has not published how to apply. Terms and dates change. Check the official page before you act.

What it pays

Scouts are incentivized based on successful deal sourcing through performance-based compensation and carry participation, allowing them to share in the fund's success.

Questions about this program

How do scouts get paid?

Carry is assigned at deal close and paid out when the fund realizes returns; there is no salary.

Is the program exclusive?

No. Scouts may work with other funds provided conflicts are disclosed.

Do I need prior VC experience?

No. A strong founder network and curiosity about early‑stage investing are the main requirements.

Are there minimum deal quotas?

No quotas, but scouts who remain inactive for six months may be off‑boarded.

Can I invest personally?

Yes, subject to founder consent and conflict‑of‑interest guidelines.

What sectors does Gemba prefer?

Capital‑efficient B2B or consumer tech with large addressable markets—fintech, SaaS, marketplaces and climate tech.

Is there any cost to join?

None. The program is completely free.

How long is the commitment?

Initial term is 12 months with an option to renew annually.

Will Gemba hire fellows full‑time?

High‑performing scouts may be invited to apply for venture‑partner or investment‑associate roles.

Do I have to attend the quarterly meet‑ups?

Participation is encouraged but not mandatory; all content is streamed.

How quickly will my application be reviewed?

Most applicants receive an answer within two weeks of submission.

About Gemba Capital

Investing in visionary founders and tech-enabled startups.

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From public sources

What the sources say about Gemba Capital Scout Program

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