Sydney Thomas

Sydney Thomas is the Founder and General Partner of Symphonic Capital, an early-stage venture firm investing in companies that improve life for the 99%. Her investment approach sits at the intersection of health, wealth, and climate resilience, backing founders building essential systems that are more equitable, adaptive, and durable.

Sydney brings over a decade of experience in early-stage venture, blending a background in public policy (Duke University) with institutional fund-building expertise (UC Berkeley Haas). In 2023, she launched Symphonic Capital and raised $13.5M for Fund I, a milestone first close reflecting strong conviction from LPs aligned with her thesis.

She is a proven pre-seed firm builder. Previously, Sydney helped scale a Silicon Valley fund from a solo GP to a $200M+ platform with 400+ portfolio companies. She has applied the same rigor and operational discipline to growing Symphonic’s portfolio and ecosystem.

Beyond investing, Sydney has spent years building community around her thesis—through founder storytelling, published insights, and convenings that bring together operators, investors, and advocates committed to equitable systems change.

Sydney is a Kauffman Fellow and a nationally recognized voice in venture. She created the Black Women in VC list and serves on boards and advisory committees including Acumen America, the Oakland Museum of California, the Alliance Healthcare Foundation, and Girl Scouts of America.