Ignite VC: How Caroline Winnett Transformed UC Berkeley’s Startup Accelerator

Episode 91 of the Ignite Podcast

In the world of startups and entrepreneurship, there are few stories as unique and inspiring as that of Caroline Winnett, the Executive Director of Berkeley Skydeck, UC Berkeley’s premier startup accelerator. Caroline’s journey from a professional concert violinist to a serial entrepreneur and eventually a leader at one of the most prestigious accelerators in the world is a testament to the power of discipline, focus, and an unwavering commitment to one’s passions.

The Unlikely Path: From Violinist to Entrepreneur

Caroline Winnett’s career began in an unexpected place — on the stage of classical music. As a concert violinist, she honed her craft with the kind of discipline and dedication that only years of rigorous practice can cultivate. But while her heart was in music, her mind was always drawn to the world of business. This led her to apply to UC Berkeley’s Haas School of Business, where she earned her MBA, despite having no formal business experience at the time.

After completing her MBA, Caroline ventured into the world of entrepreneurship. She started several companies, many of which, as she humorously admits, “died.” However, two of her…