Cake Ventures

Cake Ventures, founded by Monique Woodard, is a venture capital firm that focuses on investing in early-stage companies poised to capitalize on significant demographic shifts. Woodard's investment strategy is built around three key areas: aging and longevity, the increasing spending power of women, and the rise of a new majority as people of color become the fastest-growing consumer groups in the U.S. With a $17 million fund, Cake Ventures primarily invests in pre-seed and seed-stage companies, typically writing checks between $200K and $750K. The firm is committed to supporting startups that address the needs of tomorrow's internet users, particularly those influenced by demographic changes. This includes companies like Mama Foods, a grocery delivery service for the U.S. Latino community, and Guaranteed, a company reimagining hospice care. Woodard's approach is unique in the venture capital landscape, as she emphasizes not just the business potential but also the social impact of these demographic trends. Her firm has backed 12 companies so far, with a significant portion led by women.