Countdown Capital

Countdown Capital, founded by Jai Malik in 2020, is a venture capital firm with a mission to reinvigorate America's industrial base by backing early-stage startups. Focused primarily on pre-seed and seed investments, the firm positions itself as one of the first checks into companies tackling complex, capital-intensive challenges in sectors like aerospace, defense, manufacturing, energy, and construction. The firm is particularly interested in companies that require deep engineering expertise, aligning with its commitment to rebuild critical infrastructure and foster innovation within traditionally overlooked industries. With its second fund raising $15 million, Countdown Capital is dedicated to investing in companies that embody a unique vision and possess deep industry insights. The firm has a strong thesis-driven approach, seeking out founders who not only understand the technical complexities of their industries but also possess a compelling secret—an insight or opinion that sets them apart from the mainstream. This emphasis on intellectual rigor and market understanding drives Countdown's investment decisions, as the firm often invests as early as the pre-incorporation stage, sometimes even backing ideas before a company is formally established. Countdown Capital's portfolio reflects its mission, with investments in sectors like manufacturing and aerospace, including companies like Hadrian, which focuses on precision machining for aerospace parts. The firm is also committed to reshoring manufacturing and other critical industries in the U.S., believing that now is the time to create scalable solutions that address both commercial and geopolitical challenges​.