Why did you decide to join SP Ventures?
SP Ventures is one of the oldest venture capital firms in Brazil. When I began my professional journey at Monashees in 2011, I was already following the work the fund was doing and always admired its positioning in the market. In 2020, during my experience at Frizata, I had the chance to get closer to SP Ventures, validate that admiration, and immerse myself in the agribusiness sector. It was an area in which I developed a strong interest and genuine satisfaction in contributing. When the opportunity came to join the team, I didn’t think twice.
How do you see your previous experience as a founder adding value to SP Ventures’ team and portfolio?
I believe that my 10 years leading startups set me apart as an investor, as they allow me to build a more genuine connection with founders, identify the real challenges behind the “sales pitch,” and contribute in practical tactical discussions, not just at a strategic level. This experience also helps me better understand the context in which each entrepreneur operates. As a result, it strengthens the relationship and the support we provide.
How do you see the opportunities in Foodtech in Latin America?
Latin America brings together some of the world’s biggest challenges and at the same time some of the greatest opportunities in Foodtech. It is natural that the sector is now experiencing a moment of correction after the excess of capital invested in the last cycle. This only reinforces the importance of adjusting strategies and expectations. The recent lessons are paving the way for a new, stronger, and more sustainable cycle. In this new cycle, truly transformative companies will have room to thrive. I am convinced that Foodtech will continue to be one of the most promising segments in the region.
In your opinion, what is the biggest challenge founders face today in this ecosystem?
I believe the biggest challenge today is the combination of the investment market’s downturn with the rise of artificial intelligence. On one hand, investors are more cautious and prioritize efficiency, financial returns, and operations close to break-even. On the other, AI emerges with the potential to completely transform various markets. This forces startups to question whether their products are ready for the end game of this transformation. The clash between the need to deliver immediate results and the pressure to prepare for the future puts entrepreneurs under enormous strain.
Do you have a personal quote that guides your life?
I have many phrases that inspire me, but one that has always been with me throughout my entrepreneurial journey is Theodore Roosevelt’s speech, “The Man in the Arena”:
“It is not the critic who counts; not the man who points out how the strong man stumbles, or where the doer of deeds could have done them better. The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strives valiantly; who errs, who comes short again and again… but who does actually strive to do the deeds; who knows great enthusiasms, the great devotions; who spends himself in a worthy cause; who at the best knows in the end the triumph of high achievement, and who at the worst, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly, so that his place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who neither know victory nor defeat.”
For me, beyond the motivational power it carries, it also brings important lessons for every entrepreneur. It highlights the value of execution, resilience, and self-motivation. It reminds us that the true credit, meaning the learning, only exists for those who are actually inside the arena, facing every challenge head-on. That learning applies not only to professional life but also to personal life. It offers a new way of seeing and embracing life as a whole.
Do you have any hobbies that bring you joy?
Spending time in nature is something that recharges me. I also enjoy reading, studying, and spending time with my family.
Interview conducted with Henrique Zanuzzo
Henrique Zanuzzo is a Principal at SP Ventures, São Paulo, Brazil.