Protofund

Protofund, founded in 2021 and headquartered in Los Angeles, is an early-stage venture capital firm that focuses on Web3, blockchain, and consumer technology. The firm was established by entrepreneurs Jonathan Chu and Edward Moncada, both experienced in building and scaling companies from inception to exit. Protofund's mission is to invest in passionate, mission-driven teams that are poised to disrupt their industries through innovative solutions, particularly in the blockchain and crypto spaces. Protofund is known for its hands-on approach, actively supporting its portfolio companies in areas like product development, marketing, operations, and strategic planning. The firm’s investment philosophy centers around being “unfashionably early,” seeking out subcultures and technological trends that are yet to gain mainstream attention but have the potential to become significant drivers of the future economy. Their portfolio includes investments in high-potential companies such as LayerZero, Spice Finance, and Magna, which reflect their deep focus on blockchain infrastructure and financial technology. Protofund typically invests between $100K and $5 million, with a sweet spot around $1.5 million. Their goal is to help founders go from zero to scale by offering not just capital but also operational expertise and a network of resources to navigate the complex early stages of company growth​.