"The test of a first-rate intelligence is the ability to hold two opposing ideas in mind at the same time and still retain the ability to function" - F. Scott Fitzgerald

About Me

Hello and thanks for taking the time to learn a bit about me. My name is David and I'm a General Partner at Costanoa Ventures, an early stage venture capital firm based in SF and PA. We invest in early stage technology businesses and our check sizes range from $1m-$15m. I previously started my own venture firm which was spun-out of DCM, a global venture capital firm managing $4b+ in assets where I started my venture career.

I focus mainly on US investments but am open to partnering with entrepreneurs from all over the world. Companies that I tend to gravitate towards are those increasing TAM through improving access or those going after TAMs others initially think are too small. I’ve been the first check into companies now serving millions and have also led later stage investments into growth stage companies.

I never intended to be a venture capitalist but now I can without a doubt say that it is my dream job. It is such a pleasure working with ambitious, mission-oriented entrepreneurs everyday and there is nothing else that I'd rather do.

Outside of work, I love basketball, history podcasts/books, and nutritional epidemiology. Every once in a while I also play in high stakes super smash brothers tournaments. I spent parts of my life growing up in Beijing and the Bay Area and both cultural identities hold special places for me.

My career and life have been an unbelievable string of lucky breaks. My goal is to contribute to as many other people's lucky breaks as possible. If there is ever an intro I can make or something that I can help with, don't hesitate to reach out to me on Twitter (@chengdavid923) or at [email protected].

Where you can learn more about me:

• Twitter
• Linkedin

How I Work

How I Operate

• I never take anything personally unless it's painfully obvious that it's an attack on me (luckily I have not been attacked since middle school)
• Because of the above, I can sometimes be direct in voicing my opinions or feedback. Call me out if I am being insensitive and I will apologize
• I believe in following up and following through. People are busy so it's important to follow up. As a result, I tend to over communicate.
• I'm world-class at asking for help. There are many things that I don't know, but I can probably find someone who does.
• I communicate quickly. If we're close enough to text then you can expect a response to most texts immediately. If the response requires more time, I will generally send confirmation of receipt and follow up later.

Founder Qualities That I Admire

• Believe that what they are doing is inevitable
• Can do more with less and continue to do so
• Fast and focused
• Always learning
• Can attract others to their cause
• Self sufficient but know when to use leverage

Founders I Support (4/11/26)

Portfolio

Quotes from some founders I work with: