The 29-year old investor who went from selling fake IDs to backing Poppi raises a $75 million fund to invest in brands with a ‘cultural edge’

Fortune

by Leo Schwartz

February 23, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Patrick Finnegan, a 29-year-old venture capitalist and co-founder of Second Sight Ventures, has built a reputation as a connector in New York’s tech and art scenes. From his early days selling fake IDs to dropping out of school at 16, Finnegan transitioned into a career of building businesses and venture funds that focus on turning niche products into cultural phenomena. His firm, Second Sight Ventures, recently raised $75 million for its debut fund, focusing on tech companies with a “cultural edge.” This approach has already yielded success, such as Poppi’s $2 billion acquisition by Pepsi and investments in other buzzy brands like Lemme and Loyalist. Finnegan’s unique skill lies in his ability to bridge worlds. He facilitated connections that turned lesser-known products into mainstream hits, such as introducing Post Malone’s manager to Poppi’s cofounder. This strategy—leveraging celebrity and cultural influence—is central to Second Sight Ventures’ approach. Finnegan and Chris Hollod, the firm’s other co-founder, have built their careers around this model, with Hollod previously managing Ashton Kutcher’s A-Grade Investments. The fund’s investments highlight its focus on brands that can tell compelling stories. “We’re investing in businesses that know how to tell good stories and helping them amplify those stories,” Finnegan explained. This approach taps into the modern attention economy, where authenticity and cultural relevance are key to standing out in a crowded market. In an era where startups often rely on celebrity endorsements or influencers to gain traction, Second Sight Ventures is positioning itself as a leader in this space. By focusing on brands with a unique cultural angle, Finnegan and Hollod aim to identify the next wave of breakout companies that resonate with consumers on a deeper level. For entrepreneurs and investors alike, Second Sight Ventures’ success underscores the importance of cultural storytelling in business. As the firm continues to scout for early-stage opportunities, it’s not just about the product but also about how it can create a connection with its audience—a lesson that is increasingly valuable in today’s hyper-competitive market.

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Originally published on Fortune on 2/23/2026