Venture capital, industry, and government often view first-of-a-kind (FOAK) projects as the missing link on the path from concept to commercialization. In this fireside chat, David Yeh — veteran climate investor and Founder of Precursor — discusses how FOAK projects can succeed in this complex new era. Attendees will gain insight into geopolitics of FOAK and how to make projects bankable — and why Canada is poised to lead the way.
David Yeh, Founder of Precursor Earth
David is a veteran climate investor, former White House executive, and impact leader on a mission to scale First-of-a-Kind (FOAK) projects that transform industries and accelerate the clean economy. As Founder of Precursor, he leads a team dedicated to developing, financing, and advising groundbreaking energy and industrial infrastructure projects. With more than two decades of experience in venture capital, infrastructure, and government, David has backed over 40 climate and industrial ventures, helping catalyze trillions in investment and gigatons of CO₂ reduction. He has served as a senior official in the Obama administration, including helping lead the U.S. Department of Energy’s $400B Loan Programs Office, and continues to advise boards, impact funds, and growth-stage companies.
