Nick Cooney

Nick Cooney is the Managing Partner at Lever VC, a venture capital fund investing globally in early-stage alternative protein companies. Prior to his current role, he co-founded New Crop Capital, a venture capital trust focused on financing early plant-based and cultured meat, dairy, and egg startups. He also co-founded the Good Food Institute and previously held leadership positions across several prominent animal protection organizations, serving as the founder of The Humane League and the executive vice president at Mercy for Animals. Additionally, Cooney is the author of three published books, including Veganomics and How To Be Great At Doing Good, and he has delivered guest lectures at Harvard University and Yale University. His professional background bridges impact-driven mission work with commercial investment, maintaining a primary focus on advancing global food technology and alternative protein innovation.