Kevin Moore on Venture Capital, Innovation, and Investing in Oklahoma’s Future
by Dennis Spielman
Kevin Moore's career journey began in civil engineering after earning his degree from Oklahoma State University. However, he soon transitioned into finance, drawn by a desire to understand and impact financial systems. His path led him into venture capital, where he saw an opportunity to support early-stage founders and build something innovative. Recognizing the untapped potential in regions like Oklahoma, Moore founded Serac Ventures, an early-stage venture capital firm dedicated to investing in high-growth technology companies. His mission is to level the playing field in venture capital by providing opportunities outside traditional major markets while fostering impactful, high-potential startups.
"I grew up here in Oklahoma. Didn't come from a strong financial background. I would say most people would say I grew up fairly poor. Finance was an area of our lives that was sort of non-existent," said Kevin Moore. "And as I got older, I got interested in that space and left my job as an engineer to pursue a career in financial services. And I thought money made such a big difference in my life. Why not help people with theirs and try to make a difference in that capacity?"
Moore believes Oklahoma offers untapped potential for investors willing to look beyond traditional markets. He challenges the misconception that the state's economy revolves solely around oil, gas, and real estate, emphasizing the growing ecosystem of talent emerging from incubators, accelerators, and venture capital firms. He has seen firsthand how the venture capital landscape has expanded in the past 15 years, attracting more founders and investors who embrace risk and innovation. Moore compares identifying investment opportunities to surfing—where success comes from paddling out early rather than riding waves that are already breaking.
"I always like to use this analogy of when you're a surfer looking for the next big wave, you don't look at the wave, you don't try to get on the wave that's already coming to or close to the shore. You paddle out further, and you wait for the next larger wave that you know is coming," said Moore. "I think Oklahoma and places like Oklahoma are that, and that's sort of how we think about opportunity. If you already see the opportunity and everyone's getting on that, then it's too late. You have to get on the next one. So that would be my words of encouragement for people who are really investors to think about opportunity from that perspective."
Moore urges new founders to take the initiative and start building without waiting for validation from others. He believes too many entrepreneurs hesitate, waiting for someone else to prove an idea's success before pursuing their own. Instead, Moore advocates for an action-first mindset, urging founders to embrace uncertainty, push through challenges, and truly put the 'venture' back in venture capital. According to Moore, real growth happens in moments of discomfort, and those willing to step outside their comfort zones will find the greatest opportunities.
Kevin Moore's talk at the Oklahoma Venture Forum will inspire entrepreneurs, investors, and business leaders by sharing his journey from humble beginnings to launching Serac Ventures. He will discuss how underdog founders can overcome obstacles and build something significant while challenging outdated systems that limit innovation. Attendees will gain valuable insights into Oklahoma's evolving venture capital landscape and learn how to identify opportunities before they become mainstream.
"Differentiation is good," said Moore. "If you want to hear a different perspective on how to grow and do something significant, how the venture capital ecosystem is working and growing, and ways that it needs to change, then come out and listen to the presentation. It should be fun, and I look forward to being there and sharing my experiences with the group."
Don't miss the OVF Power Lunch on Wednesday, April 9, 2025, at 11:30 a.m. in Metro Tech EDC Room 123 (1700 Springlake Drive, Oklahoma City). This is a prime opportunity to network, gain insights, and engage with Oklahoma's thriving business community.
Register to attend April 9, 2025 Power Lunch
