Agritech & Farming VC Funds

Capricorn Partners, headquartered in Leuven, Belgium, is a leading independent manager of venture capital, growth capital, and quoted equity funds. The firm focuses on innovative companies that leverage technology as a competitive advantage, particularly in sectors such as digital technologies, health, and cleantech. Capricorn Partners manages several funds, including the Capricorn Cleantech Fund, Capricorn Digital Growth Fund, Capricorn Health-Tech Fund, and Capricorn Fusion Fund, which targets opportunities with a specific China strategy. They also manage Quest for Growth, integrating both quoted and private investments, focusing on European companies expected to produce higher than average growth in digital, health, and clean technologies. The firm has a strong commitment to ESG principles and aims to create both financial return and strategic value for its clients. Their investment philosophy is rooted in supporting innovative sectors that drive positive change, making them a pivotal player in the venture capital landscape. Capricorn’s team comprises experienced investment managers with deep technology expertise and broad industrial experience. They offer a unique mix of technology and investment expertise, creating an ecosystem that supports superior returns through the combination of investable capital, innovative ideas, capable entrepreneurship, and business management. For entrepreneurs, Capricorn Partners provides not only capital but also strategic guidance and support, leveraging their extensive network and industry knowledge to foster growth and innovation in their portfolio companies​.

Carbon13 is a venture builder focused on addressing the climate emergency by helping founders create scalable startups that contribute significantly to reducing carbon emissions. Based in Cambridge and Berlin, Carbon13’s programs support entrepreneurs from the earliest stages of ideation through to pre-seed investment. Their goal is for each venture to eventually reduce 10 million tonnes of CO2e annually once scaled. The organization has launched over 70 climatetech ventures since 2021, including notable startups like Kita, which offers the world’s first carbon removal insurance, and Materials Nexus, which uses AI and quantum mechanics to design low-carbon materials​. Carbon13's venture builder program focuses on both technical and commercial founders, fostering collaborations between scientists, engineers, and entrepreneurs to build impactful solutions. Participants gain access to a vast network of domain experts and investors, including partnerships with organizations like Barclays and EY. The program emphasizes a dual focus on achieving commercial success and measurable carbon reduction. The fund actively invests through its SEIS Funds, targeting ventures that align with its mission of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.

Casdin Capital, established in 2012 by Eli Casdin, is a New York-based venture capital firm with a focus on life sciences and healthcare. The firm specializes in investing in companies that are at the forefront of scientific and technological advancements in areas such as molecular medicine, biotechnology, genomics, and synthetic biology. Notable investments by Casdin Capital include high-impact companies like 23andMe, Adaptive Biotechnologies, Recursion Pharmaceuticals, and Ginkgo Bioworks. These investments highlight the firm’s commitment to transformative technologies in health care, gene editing, and diagnostic platforms. Casdin Capital's strategy revolves around funding companies that leverage data and precision-based therapies to revolutionize the healthcare industry. They focus on early-stage to late-stage investments, providing substantial financial support to help these companies scale and achieve significant milestones. The firm has managed to build a robust portfolio with 250 investments and 87 exits, demonstrating a strong track record of successful investments and strategic exits. Key team members include Eli Casdin as the Founder and Chief Investment Officer, Alexandria Fisk as Chief Operating Officer, and Lawrence Canzoneri as Chief Financial Officer. The team’s expertise and deep industry knowledge enable them to identify and support innovative startups effectively. Casdin Capital's approach combines strategic investments with deep sector expertise, positioning them as a leading player in the life sciences investment landscape, actively supporting companies that are poised to make groundbreaking advancements in health and biotechnology.

AVG Funds, also known as Alumni Ventures Group, is a prominent venture capital firm that leverages the power of alumni networks to invest in innovative startups across various sectors. Founded with the mission to democratize venture capital, AVG Funds has become one of the most active venture firms globally. They manage over $200 million in assets and have made more than 115 investments in the past year alone. AVG Funds focuses on diverse industries, including AI and machine learning, health tech, fintech, cleantech, and cybersecurity. Notable investments include companies like Adventr, a media and information services platform, and Eclypsium, which specializes in cybersecurity for enterprise hardware. Their portfolio also features startups like PartySlate, a digital platform for event planning, and Venus Aerospace, a company developing high-speed transport technologies. The firm operates through a network of alumni funds associated with top universities such as Harvard, MIT, Stanford, and Yale. This structure enables AVG to tap into a vast network of alumni entrepreneurs and investors, providing a rich source of deal flow and support for portfolio companies. AVG Funds typically invests in early to growth-stage companies, with check sizes ranging from $100,000 to $2 million. They emphasize a hands-on approach, providing not only capital but also strategic guidance and connections to help startups scale and succeed.

Cathay Innovation, founded in 2015, is a global venture capital firm affiliated with Cathay Capital. The firm focuses on multi-stage investments in innovative startups across various sectors, including AI, fintech, digital health, consumer tech, and energy. With a presence in North America, Europe, Asia, and Latin America, Cathay Innovation leverages its global network to support entrepreneurs in scaling their businesses. Notable investments in Cathay Innovation's portfolio include Ledger, a leading provider of blockchain-based hardware wallets for cryptocurrency, and Glovo, a Spanish on-demand delivery service that was acquired by Delivery Hero. Other significant investments are Owkin, which uses AI for drug discovery and precision medicine, and Kredivo, a fintech company providing consumer loans in Indonesia. The firm has also seen several successful exits, such as the IPO of Wallbox, a smart charging company listed on the New York Stock Exchange, and the acquisition of Getaround, a peer-to-peer car sharing service. Cathay Innovation has a strong track record of identifying and nurturing high-growth companies, with multiple portfolio companies achieving unicorn status. Led by a diverse team of 45 members, including 17 partners, Cathay Innovation emphasizes a collaborative approach, providing strategic support and leveraging its extensive ecosystem to help startups thrive globally. The firm continues to drive innovation and positive impact through its investments in technology-driven companies.

Cavallo Ventures is the corporate venture capital arm of Wilbur-Ellis Holdings, a privately owned family business founded in 1921. Established in 2017 and headquartered in San Francisco, the firm has invested more than $60 million in approximately 42 startups focused on agritech, food technology, and sustainability. President and CEO Mike Wilbur, a founding member with over 20 years at Wilbur-Ellis, leads the effort alongside Managing Director Brett Morris, who joined in January 2021 with nearly a decade of agritech venture capital and corporate development experience. Cavallo leads rounds at the Seed through Series B stages, deploying checks of $1 million to $5 million. The portfolio spans agronomy, sustainable agriculture, animal and human nutrition, and agri-software. Notable companies include Sound Agriculture, Agtonomy (autonomous tractors), FarmWise (acquired by Taylor Farms in April 2025), Taranis in crop intelligence, Beta Hatch in insect protein, Crop Enhancement, Boost Biomes, and Performance Livestock Analytics. The firm has recorded three exits, with FarmWise being the most recent. Cavallo's investment focus aligns directly with Wilbur-Ellis's four business divisions — agronomy, aquafeed, cosmetics ingredients, and nutrition — giving portfolio companies access to deep industry relationships, market expertise, and distribution channels that financial investors cannot replicate. Beyond capital, Cavallo provides board seats and active support in strategy, executive recruiting, and fundraising, positioning the firm as an operational partner with real commercial skin in the game.

Central Illinois Angels (CIA) is a membership-based angel investment group founded in 2009, located in Peoria, Illinois. The organization focuses on providing early-stage capital, strategic advice, and mentorship to startups with high growth potential, particularly those based in the Midwest. Over the years, its members have invested over $13 million across various portfolio companies. CIA does not limit itself to specific industries or investment stages, though it primarily reviews seed and Series A opportunities. The organization operates through a structured process that includes initial application reviews, screening by a committee, and a detailed due diligence phase before investments are made. They also prioritize companies with strong management teams, realistic exit strategies, and a valuation that aligns with their risk/reward expectations. Central Illinois Angels is part of a broader regional effort to foster economic growth, working closely with local institutions like the Bradley Technology Commercialization Center and the Heartland Partnership. Their collaborative approach allows them to leverage the collective expertise of their members and other local angel groups, enhancing their ability to support startups effectively​.

CDTI (Centro para el Desarrollo Tecnológico Industrial) is a Spanish public business entity under the Ministry of Science and Innovation. It supports technological development and innovation within Spain, mainly by channeling financial and technical assistance to companies working on R&D&I projects. One of its key initiatives, Innvierte, is a venture capital program designed to foster investment in innovative, high-tech startups. Through Innvierte, CDTI co-invests with private capital in technology-based enterprises, targeting sectors like biotech, fintech, artificial intelligence, and digital media. The program has committed over €450 million to co-investment projects and venture capital funds, positioning itself as a critical player in Spain’s innovation ecosystem. CDTI has been involved in significant rounds of funding for companies like Atani, Bdeo, and Odilo. CDTI’s investment approach focuses on supporting early-stage companies with disruptive potential, aiming to bridge the gap between innovation and commercialization. This public-private partnership strategy helps drive Spain’s technology transfer and entrepreneurial growth, supporting industries crucial to the country's economic future.

Cerana Capital, founded in 2016, is a venture capital firm based in Singapore that focuses on early-stage investments in the Southeast Asian market. The firm is led by co-founders Kian Chun Lim and Justin Tan, who bring extensive experience in finance and entrepreneurship. Cerana Capital is known for its hands-on approach, providing not only financial backing but also managerial and operational support to startups, helping them scale successfully​. Cerana's investment portfolio spans multiple industries, with a particular emphasis on fintech, food and agritech, and platform-based businesses. The firm targets startups from the pre-seed to Series A stages, aiming to foster innovation and sustainable growth in sectors experiencing rapid development in Southeast Asia. Some of its notable investments include fintech companies MoneyMatch and Fundnel, reflecting its strong focus on digital finance solutions​. Beyond funding, Cerana Capital takes an active role in the development of its portfolio companies, offering managerial expertise and helping founders navigate the challenges of scaling their businesses. This hands-on involvement is a key differentiator, allowing the firm to build lasting relationships with its startups and guide them through critical stages of growth​. Cerana Capital’s strategic approach to investment, coupled with its focus on high-growth sectors, positions the firm as a key player in the Southeast Asian venture capital ecosystem. With a focus on fostering innovation and empowering entrepreneurs, Cerana Capital is committed to driving sustainable success across its portfolio.

CerraCap Ventures, based in Costa Mesa, California, is a global venture capital firm focused on early-stage B2B technology companies. Their key sectors are health tech, enterprise AI, and cybersecurity. Using their unique Sales & Scale™ model, they guide startups through an industrialized process designed to accelerate sales, scale product development, and facilitate successful exits. CerraCap leverages an extensive network of Fortune 500 CXOs to secure early proofs of concept and streamline product adoption. Their investment strategy is geared toward companies that solve real-world problems in healthcare and digital security, with a focus on chronic disease management and securing digital environments. Some notable portfolio companies include Deep Instinct and Dathena, specializing in cybersecurity through AI-driven solutions. CerraCap often leads rounds and provides hands-on support to help startups achieve growth, reduce sales cycles, and gain traction with key customers. The team, led by co-founders Saurabh Ranjan and Saurabh Suri, draws on years of industry expertise to mentor and position companies for success in global markets​.

Cerulean Ventures is a Santa Barbara, California-based climate technology venture capital firm founded in 2022 by Matthew Stotts and Jahed Momand. The firm closed its $10 million Fund I at Climate Week NYC in September 2024, focused on pre-seed software companies solving climate challenges. Both co-founders bring a grounding in sustainable finance, regenerative agriculture, and indigenous land stewardship through prior work at Regen Network; Momand additionally co-founded a DevOps SaaS company and held product leadership roles at enterprise software firms in Silicon Valley. Cerulean leads rounds at the Pre-seed and Seed stages, deploying checks of up to $500,000 across 33 portfolio investments. The firm backs asset-light, rapid-scaling software companies that bring climate solutions to market quickly — targeting systemic leverage points where proprietary data, AI and compute scaling, and fintech solutions can transform traditionally analog sectors. Key investment areas include renewable energy, blue carbon, reforestation, biodiversity, regenerative agriculture, decarbonization, circularity, and sustainability across industry, manufacturing, transportation, construction, and supply chains. Notable portfolio companies include WattCarbon in energy attribution and Elio and Asoba. Cerulean's investment thesis explicitly aims to move the climate economy beyond the green premium and counter greenwashing through the deployment of technology. By concentrating on software-first approaches, the firm targets the fastest path from early-stage innovation to measurable climate impact — backing founders who treat climate solutions as commercial opportunities rather than charitable imperatives.

Change Ventures, founded in 2016 and headquartered in Tallinn, Estonia, is a leading venture capital firm focused on early-stage investments in the Baltic region. The firm has built a strong portfolio with notable investments in companies such as Formaloo, a software development applications firm, and RivalSense, a business productivity software company. They emphasize supporting ambitious Baltic founders across various sectors including aerospace, defense, and hospitality. Change Ventures has made 59 investments to date, demonstrating their commitment to nurturing innovative startups. They have seen successful exits, including Nordigen, a company acquired in 2022. The firm's investment strategy is centered around providing not only capital but also mentorship and strategic guidance to help startups scale effectively. The team at Change Ventures includes experienced professionals like Andris Berzins, who has held C-level roles in successful startups and co-founded TechHub Riga and TechChill. Other key members include Yrjö Ojasaar, a seasoned tech-startup CEO and angel investor, and Rait Ojasaar, an experienced tech entrepreneur and mentor. This diverse team brings a wealth of expertise and a deep understanding of the startup ecosystem in the Baltic region. By leveraging their extensive network and deep industry knowledge, Change Ventures continues to play a pivotal role in the growth and success of early-stage startups in the Baltics​.

Cherry Ventures, founded in 2012, is an early-stage venture capital firm based in Berlin, with additional offices in London and Stockholm. The firm primarily invests in pre-seed and seed-stage startups across various sectors, including fintech, climate tech, consumer products, health tech, mobility, and SaaS. Cherry Ventures is led by partners Filip Dames, Christian Meermann, and Sophia Bendz, all of whom have extensive entrepreneurial experience from building companies like Zalando and Spotify. The firm recently launched its fourth fund at €300 million, focusing on disruptive technologies including crypto and web3. Notable portfolio companies include Infarm, AUTO1 Group, FlixBus, TWAICE, and Cazoo.

Cherubic Ventures is a venture capital firm that specializes in early-stage investments, focusing on transformative industries in both the US and Asia. With over $400 million in assets under management, the firm has a portfolio that includes more than 150 startups. Notable investments include Flexport, Hims & Hers, Calm, Ring, Wish, and Paidy, showcasing their ability to identify and support high-growth potential companies. Founded in 2014 by Matt Cheng, Cherubic Ventures operates from key locations in San Francisco, Taipei, and Beijing. Their investment strategy targets seed-stage companies that have the potential to disrupt industries. They typically invest in sectors such as fintech, health tech, consumer internet, and enterprise software, aiming to back ambitious founders from the earliest stages. Cherubic Ventures is known for its hands-on approach, providing more than just capital. They offer strategic guidance and support to help startups scale. Their active involvement in their portfolio companies has led to successful exits, including high-profile acquisitions and IPOs. The firm’s geographic focus allows them to bridge the gap between Western and Asian markets, providing unique opportunities for startups to expand globally. Cherubic Ventures' team is composed of experienced investors and entrepreneurs who leverage their extensive networks to help startups succeed.

Chicago Ventures is a venture capital firm based in Chicago, focusing on seed-stage investments in technology companies. The firm leads early rounds, often stepping in when other investors might overlook startups. Chicago Ventures has invested in over 100 companies, raising significant follow-on capital since its inception in 2012. Prominent companies in their portfolio include Cameo, SpotHero, project44, and G2. Cameo is known for its personalized celebrity video messages, SpotHero for its parking reservation service, project44 for its logistics technology, and G2 for being the largest software marketplace globally. Other notable investments include HealthJoy, a healthcare guidance platform, and Kin, which simplifies homeowners insurance. Chicago Ventures recently closed its third fund, raising $63 million to continue backing startups that might be initially passed over by other investors. They typically invest between $1.5 million to $2 million per startup and aim to make 25 new investments with this fund. The firm's investment strategy emphasizes a hands-on approach, taking board seats and actively supporting the companies in their portfolio. This approach helps startups navigate their early growth stages and scale effectively.

ChileGlobal Ventures is the venture capital arm of Fundación Chile, founded in 2008 and based in Vitacura, Santiago. The firm manages approximately $20 million in assets under management, structured as a fund co-invested by private capital — including Zoma Capital, Entel, and Engie Factory — alongside 67% public leverage from Corfo, Chile's national economic development agency. ChileGlobal Ventures has invested in 72 companies, primarily at the Seed and Series A stages in Chilean startups with a focus on companies that can scale from Chile to broader Latin American and global markets. The firm leads rounds, deploying checks of up to $1 million across software, cleantech, agritech, healthtech, food technology, energy, and biotech. The investment thesis focuses on impact innovations in high-potential sectors for Chile and Latin America, backed by entrepreneurs working on disruptive solutions. Operations run through four pillars: an Impact Finance Network investing in startups, a mentor network, Club CGV providing strategic service providers, and corporate linkage models connecting large companies with innovative startups. ChileGlobal Ventures positions itself as more than a capital provider — the Fundación Chile parentage gives portfolio companies access to an extensive research, technical, and policy network built across decades of work in Chile's priority economic sectors including agriculture, aquaculture, mining, and clean energy. Leadership includes Jaime Riggs and Manuel Rodríguez, who guide a portfolio designed to generate returns while building Chile's long-term innovation capacity.

CircleUp Growth Partners, based in San Francisco, is a venture capital firm specializing in early-stage consumer brands. Their data-driven approach is powered by Helio, an advanced platform that provides comprehensive consumer market insights, enhancing the decision-making process for investments and supporting post-funding growth​. CircleUp has backed notable brands such as Halo Top Creamery, Back to the Roots, and Rhythm Superfoods, focusing on sectors like food and beverage, personal care, beauty, pet products, and household consumables​. CircleUp's investment strategy targets companies with revenues between $1 million and $20 million, typically providing growth equity ranging from $1 million to $10 million. They emphasize supporting visionary entrepreneurs who are passionate about their products and have a clear vision for their brands​. The firm is led by a team of experienced partners, including Sam Blumenthal and Karen Howland, who bring extensive backgrounds in consumer investing and operational support​ (CircleUp)​. CircleUp's holistic approach involves not just funding but also leveraging partnerships and community networks to foster collaboration and accelerate growth.

Cisco Investments, the corporate venture capital arm of Cisco, focuses on strategic investments in next-generation enterprise technologies. With over $2 billion in assets under management, Cisco Investments has a robust portfolio that includes companies specializing in AI/ML, cloud computing, cybersecurity, and IoT. Their investment strategy extends beyond financial backing, offering startups access to Cisco's vast network of experts, sales and marketing support, and a global customer base. One of their key initiatives is the Aspire Fund, a $50 million venture fund launched in 2020 to support diverse-led startups and venture funds. This fund specifically targets companies led by women and people of color, aiming to close the significant funding gap for these groups. Cisco Investments also partners with other venture funds such as Work-Bench and Acrew Capital to further their commitment to diversity and inclusion in the tech industry. The leadership team, including Janey Hoe, Derek Idemoto, and Prasad Parthasarathi, emphasizes a strategic approach to investment, integrating Cisco's innovation goals with their commitment to social justice and inclusion. This approach not only helps startups scale but also fosters a more inclusive tech ecosystem globally. Cisco Investments continues to be a driving force in the venture capital landscape, leveraging its strategic position and resources to support the growth and success of innovative startups across various technology sectors.

Citi Ventures, founded in 2008 and headquartered in San Francisco, is the venture capital arm of Citigroup. The firm focuses on strategic investments in innovative startups that have the potential to augment and enhance Citi's products and services. Citi Ventures invests across various sectors, including fintech, AI and data, commerce and payments, security and enterprise IT, customer experience and marketing, and proptech. Notable investments by Citi Ventures include significant names like Plaid, Square, DocuSign, Honey, and Cylance. The firm has a successful track record with exits, including six $1 billion-plus exits. Citi Ventures aims to invest in category-defining companies that can become leaders in their fields. Their investment strategy typically involves making initial investments ranging from $1 million to $20 million, with an average deal size of around $5 million. They often partner with other investors and lead approximately 20% of their new investments. Citi Ventures leverages Citigroup's global network to help portfolio companies scale and commercialize their innovations. About two-thirds of their portfolio companies have a relationship with Citibank, either through a pilot or full commercialization.

City Light Capital is an early-stage venture capital firm based in New York, focusing on investments that generate measurable social impact in the areas of education, safety and care, and the environment. They believe in leveraging private markets to address complex, intertwined social issues through scalable solutions. City Light invests in companies where financial success is directly tied to social impact, ensuring that growth in revenue equates to better lives at scale. The firm's portfolio includes a diverse array of impactful companies, such as Maven Clinic, Headspace Health, and OhmConnect, which provide solutions ranging from healthcare to clean energy. City Light typically invests between $50,000 and $3 million, often leading or co-leading rounds at the seed stage and beyond. They also have a dedicated seed investment program, City Spark, which nurtures early-stage companies with the potential for significant social impact. City Light's team is composed of experienced investors, including Partners Josh Cohen, Tom Groos, and Jeff Rinehart. They emphasize close collaboration with entrepreneurs to maximize both financial returns and social outcomes. The firm operates primarily in the United States, with a strong presence in major investment hubs like New York and the Midwest.

Civilization Ventures is a venture capital firm founded in 2017 with a strong focus on health tech and biology innovations. Based in Silicon Valley, the firm has grown from a $1M pilot seed fund to managing over $100M in capital. They have invested in over 60 companies across genomics, diagnostics, digital health, and synthetic biology, emphasizing preventative, personalized, and regenerative healthcare solutions. Notable investments include Rocket Pharma, which focuses on gene therapies for rare diseases, and Singular Bio, acquired by Invitae to enhance genetic screening in early pregnancy. Other significant exits include Lemonaid Health, acquired by 23andMe, and Rewrite, a gene editing company acquired by Intellia. The team at Civilization Ventures is composed of experienced biopharma executives and operators who have founded and sold companies. They support founders through a vast network and their extensive experience in the field. Additionally, they offer a unique fellowship program to train PhDs to become future entrepreneurs in the life sciences sector.

Clave Capital is a prominent venture capital firm based in Pamplona, Spain, with a strong focus on the healthcare sector. Notable for their recent €50 million Clave Innohealth fund, they target high-growth potential startups across Europe, specifically in medtech, digital health, health-nutrition, and biotech sectors. Clave Capital’s portfolio includes promising startups like Innitius, which focuses on improving diagnostics for women’s health. Clave Capital primarily invests in early-stage to Series A funding rounds, with initial contributions ranging from €500k to €1 million, and potential follow-on investments up to €3 million per project. Their geographic focus extends throughout Spain and Europe. The firm’s investment strategy emphasizes not only financial backing but also active involvement in the growth and development of their portfolio companies. They maintain close relationships with research centers and hospitals, providing valuable expertise and connections to foster innovation. Clave Capital's experienced team, led by Chairman and CEO José Javier Armendariz and Director of Funds Santiago Lozano, has a track record of over 20 years and 90 investments, which positions them as a significant player in the European healthcare investment landscape. For startups looking to engage with Clave Capital, it’s advisable to highlight innovative potential and market leadership capabilities in the healthcare domain. Their preference for hands-on involvement means that demonstrating a collaborative approach could be beneficial.

Clay Capital, formerly known as VisVires New Protein, is a Singapore-based venture capital firm focused on agrifood technology. In 2023, the firm closed its second fund at $145 million, signaling a strong commitment to transforming the food and agriculture sectors. Clay Capital backs innovative startups across Europe, Asia, and Israel that are working to create sustainable and regenerative food systems. Its investment strategy targets technologies that address key issues like food security, sustainability, and environmental health. With initial investments ranging from $3 million to $8 million, Clay Capital supports startups working on solutions in areas such as regenerative agriculture, crop disease resistance, and sustainable packaging. The firm’s portfolio includes companies like Toopi Organics, which repurposes human urine as a bio-stimulant, and In Ovo, which develops sex determination technologies to reduce the culling of male chicks in the poultry industry. Clay Capital’s approach emphasizes connecting the Asian and European markets, leveraging its expertise and network to help startups expand globally. This cross-continental strategy reflects the firm’s vision of creating a healthier and more sustainable food system while fostering innovation in agrifood tech.

Cleveland Avenue, founded in 2015 and based in Chicago, Illinois, is a venture capital firm that invests in lifestyle consumer brands and technology companies. The firm is dedicated to accelerating growth for entrepreneurs by providing not only financial resources but also strategic support across various business functions. Cleveland Avenue focuses on several sectors including food and beverage, AgTech, consumer goods, and health and wellness. Their portfolio includes innovative companies like Farmer’s Fridge, a vending machine company providing fresh meals; PreciTaste, an AI-enabled foodservice management platform; and Hero, a producer of zero-carb, zero-sugar foods made from plant-based proteins. The firm's approach goes beyond passive investment. They offer a range of services such as financial expertise, organizational development, marketing, supply chain optimization, and operational guidance to help their portfolio companies succeed. Their state-of-the-art Innovation Facility in Chicago serves as a hub for R&D, consumer research, and product showcases. Key figures at Cleveland Avenue include Don Thompson, the CEO, who leverages his extensive experience in corporate leadership to guide the firm's strategic vision, and Joseph McCoy, the COO and General Counsel, who brings a wealth of experience in legal and business transactions.

Climactic VC is a venture capital firm founded in 2021 by Josh Felser, co-founder of Freestyle Capital, and Raj Kapoor, former Chief Strategy Officer at Lyft. The firm focuses on investing in early-stage climate technology startups that are working on innovative solutions to combat climate change. Climactic VC's mission is to support visionary founders who are addressing some of the planet's most pressing challenges, including sustainability, carbon reduction, and creating a more circular economy. The firm's inaugural fund, launched with $65 million, is dedicated to accelerating the growth of software-first climate tech startups. Climactic VC places a strong emphasis on backing companies that can scale rapidly and have the potential to make significant environmental impacts. The firm operates out of New York City and San Francisco, California, reflecting its bi-coastal approach to finding and nurturing top-tier climate tech innovators. Climactic VC is particularly interested in sectors such as energy, mobility, and enterprise solutions that can drive systemic change in how industries operate and how resources are managed. The firm seeks to create partnerships that not only deliver strong financial returns but also contribute meaningfully to the global effort to mitigate climate change.

Climate Capital is an early-stage venture capital firm focused on investing in climate tech startups. Founded in 2018 by Sundeep Ahuja, Climate Capital aims to address climate change through strategic investments in innovative technologies that reduce emissions and promote climate adaptation. The firm supports over 350 teams working on various solutions, including clean energy production, carbon emission reduction, and sustainable lifestyle transformations. Climate Capital operates multiple funds and syndicates, such as the Seed, Growth, Bio, and Climate Scout Fund. This platform approach allows the firm to build expertise across specific verticals and leverage efficiencies of scale. The firm provides founders access to a wide network of partners, resources, and LPs to accelerate growth. Their portfolio includes companies like Mosaic, Moxion Power, and Ampaire, showcasing their commitment to diverse climate solutions. Climate Capital is highly networked, with over 2,500 climate investors, founders, operators, and enthusiasts in their community. This extensive network helps founders find talent, customers, strategic partners, and additional investors.

Climate Impact Capital is a Houston-based venture capital firm focused on early-stage investments that aim to address the challenges of climate change. Founded in 2016 by Alexander Rozenfeld, the firm targets innovative solutions in sectors such as alternative energy, agriculture, automotive, and household appliances. The firm’s portfolio includes companies like OpConnect, a leader in electric vehicle infrastructure, and Syzygy Plasmonics, which is developing sustainable energy technologies. Climate Impact Capital specializes in providing both financial backing and strategic guidance to startups with high potential for reducing environmental impact. The firm often co-invests alongside other major players like Chevron Technology Ventures, helping its portfolio companies scale through strong industry partnerships​. With a mission to combat climate change through technology, Climate Impact Capital continues to invest in areas that promote sustainable development and long-term environmental impact, fostering innovation while driving profitable growth.

EIT Climate-KIC is Europe's leading climate innovation agency, founded in 2010 and headquartered in Amsterdam, Netherlands. The organization is dedicated to accelerating the transition to a zero-carbon economy by fostering systemic change through innovation. As part of the European Institute of Innovation and Technology (EIT), Climate-KIC supports over 400 partners across 60 countries, including cities, regions, industries, and start-ups. Climate-KIC's strategy for 2024-2030, titled "Transformation, With Urgency," focuses on enabling climate-resilient and carbon-neutral futures for more than 400 cities and regions. This strategy emphasizes collaboration across public and private sectors and the necessity of addressing the "messy middle" of climate innovation—where profound systemic changes are most needed. Climate-KIC has supported more than 700 investments in climate-tech startups, with an impressive portfolio that includes companies like Bound4Blue and RepAir, which are pioneering new solutions in renewable energy and carbon capture. The organization also places a strong emphasis on diversity, with 35% of its portfolio companies having at least one female founder. By leveraging its extensive network and innovative programs, EIT Climate-KIC continues to drive forward large-scale climate solutions, making significant strides in transforming cities and industries across Europe and beyond.

The Climate Pledge Fund is Amazon's $2 billion corporate venture fund dedicated to investing in innovative companies that can help achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2040, supporting Amazon's commitments under The Climate Pledge. Launched in 2020, the fund focuses on climate technology solutions across various sectors, including energy, transportation, circular economy, and carbon removal, among others. It seeks to support companies at different stages, from early startups to established enterprises, providing financial backing through preferred equity or convertible debt, rather than grants. The portfolio includes companies such as Rivian, Redwood Materials, and ZeroAvia, each addressing significant challenges in sustainability. For example, Rivian works on electric vehicles, while Redwood Materials focuses on recycling battery materials. The fund's global scope means it considers investments from across the world, promoting scalable solutions that can help reduce carbon emissions on a large scale. Cencora Ventures leverages Amazon's vast resources and expertise to help portfolio companies scale effectively. This includes facilitating connections within Amazon's ecosystem, providing guidance on commercialization, and supporting market expansion. The Climate Pledge Fund also encourages partnerships with other companies and stakeholders who have signed The Climate Pledge, further extending its impact on global sustainability efforts.

Climentum Capital is a Copenhagen-based venture capital firm launched in 2022, focused on investing in early-stage European climate tech startups that are driving significant CO2 reductions. The firm is particularly known for its commitment to "hard-tech" solutions—innovations that combine hardware and deep technology to address major industrial challenges. Climentum Capital invests primarily in Seed and Series A rounds, with typical investments ranging from €1 million to €5 million. The firm's investment thesis centers on six key sectors: Next Generation Renewables, Food & Agriculture, Industry & Manufacturing, Buildings & Architecture, Transportation & Mobility, and Waste & Materials. With offices in Copenhagen, Berlin, and Stockholm, Climentum has a strong presence in the Nordics and the DACH region, areas known for their leadership in sustainability and industrial innovation. Climentum Capital operates as an Article 9 fund, which under the EU's Sustainable Finance Disclosure Regulation (SFDR) means that all of its investments must have a measurable positive impact on the environment. The firm uses a dual carry structure, linking financial returns with CO2 emissions reduction goals to ensure that both economic and environmental objectives are met. In 2024, Climentum announced plans to launch a second fund, targeting €100 million to continue its mission of supporting high-impact climate tech startups across Europe. The firm has already made significant investments in companies like Qvantum and Novatron Fusion, which are developing next-generation heat pumps and fusion reactors, respectively​.

Closed Loop Partners is a New York-based investment firm dedicated to advancing the circular economy through venture capital, growth equity, private equity, and catalytic capital investments. The firm focuses on transforming linear supply chains into circular ones by investing in innovations across material science, robotics, agritech, sustainable consumer products, and advanced recycling technologies. Established in 2014, Closed Loop Partners has made significant strides in promoting sustainability and reducing waste. The firm manages several funds, including the Closed Loop Ventures Group, which targets early-stage companies, and the Closed Loop Leadership Fund, a private equity fund focused on acquiring and building businesses that enhance circular supply chains. Key sectors of investment include plastics and packaging, fashion, food and agriculture, and technology. The firm’s portfolio boasts companies like AMP Robotics, Algramo, and Evrnu, which are at the forefront of sustainable innovations. Closed Loop Partners emphasizes the importance of aligning economic growth with environmental impact, having kept millions of tons of materials in circulation and avoided significant greenhouse gas emissions through its investments​. Overall, Closed Loop Partners leverages its extensive network and expertise to support the development and scaling of solutions that contribute to a resilient and waste-free economy.

CM Venture Capital, headquartered in Shanghai, China, is an early and growth-stage venture capital firm focusing on investing in hard-tech innovations that drive significant industrial transformations. Founded in 2010, the firm is committed to supporting startups that are developing advanced materials, digital industrial solutions, and technologies for energy and environmental sustainability. CM Venture's investment strategy is centered on predicting future trends and selecting startups poised to become industry leaders. They emphasize deep technological expertise and work closely with portfolio companies to provide strategic guidance and mentorship. Their notable investments include Econic, a UK-based company developing catalysts to incorporate CO2 into materials, and NovoNutrients, a US-based startup producing food and feed from CO2​. The firm collaborates with corporate venture capital arms of multinational companies such as GE, Samsung, and BASF, leveraging their extensive networks and industry experience to help startups scale effectively. Their portfolio spans across various sectors, including 5G, hydrogen energy, automation, and sustainable materials​.

Coinvest Capital is a Lithuanian venture capital firm founded in 2018, designed to strengthen the local business angel ecosystem by co-investing with private investors in promising startups. The fund, fully capitalized with public money from the Lithuanian state and the European Union, operates as an evergreen VC fund with €25.5 million in assets under management. Its focus is on early-stage startups, typically within sectors that are strategically important to Lithuania, including GreenTech, Life Sciences, DeepTech, and Defense technologies. Coinvest Capital applies best industry practices and primarily co-invests alongside business angels or other venture funds, providing accredited investors a unique profit-sharing incentive in the event of successful exits. Their approach includes patient capital, allowing them to back research-intensive startups with longer development horizons. The fund’s diverse portfolio includes 31 companies, reflecting their commitment to fostering innovation and supporting the next generation of Lithuanian businesses. The firm’s collaborative model not only strengthens startups with financial support but also leverages the expertise of private co-investors, ensuring a hands-on approach in helping portfolio companies grow. Coinvest Capital is a key player in Lithuania's growing startup ecosystem, playing an integral role in building a sustainable investment landscape.

Cold Start Ventures is a dynamic venture studio that excels in incubating and funding mission-driven companies. With a focus on the US market, they primarily invest in early-stage startups within life sciences, healthcare, consumer products, and IT sectors. Their notable investments include Careerist, an edtech startup, and Hopscotch, which focuses on mental health solutions. Cold Start Ventures is headquartered in New York but operates remotely, emphasizing a flexible, innovative working environment. Their strategic approach combines capital with extensive resources, tools, and expertise to nurture visionary ideas into high-growth businesses. The average check size and specific investment rounds they lead are not publicly detailed, reflecting a tailored approach to each venture’s needs. The team at Cold Start is led by founders like Yury Yakubchyk and partners like Kunal Mehta, who bring a wealth of experience and a strong track record in transforming complex ideas into market-leading companies. For startups looking to connect, Cold Start prefers direct approaches with clear, impactful pitches. They value clarity of vision and the potential for significant societal impact in their funding decisions.

Collaborative Fund, founded in 2010 by Craig Shapiro, is a venture capital firm focused on supporting entrepreneurs and ideas that push the world forward. The firm primarily invests in early-stage companies across various sectors, including next-gen consumer products, climate solutions, industrial transformation, food innovation, and precision health. Some of their notable investments include Beyond Meat, Lyft, Impossible Foods, and Sweetgreen. The firm recently raised $200 million for two new funds: Collaborative V and Collaborative Growth. Collaborative V focuses on early-stage investments, while Collaborative Growth targets more established startups looking to scale​. Collaborative Fund's investment philosophy emphasizes sustainability, social impact, and innovative solutions that address global challenges.

Colopl Next is a venture capital arm of Colopl Inc., a prominent Japanese gaming company, founded in 2015. Colopl Next focuses on investing in startups and publicly listed companies, with a strong emphasis on emerging technologies, B2C services, and the entertainment sector. The firm leverages its extensive knowledge in these areas to support young entrepreneurs and innovative companies globally. The fund's industry focus includes virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain, and other cutting-edge technologies. Notable investments include companies like Flitto and Kaizen Platform, which have successfully gone public. Colopl Next also has a robust presence in sectors like lifestyle services, health, and media content, supporting ventures that align with the theme of "Entertainment in Real Life". Geographically, Colopl Next primarily operates from Tokyo, Japan, but it also invests in international startups, including those in Korea and Southeast Asia. Their investment strategy includes a range of funds, such as the Next Unicorn Fund and several others dedicated to different stages and focuses, from seed investments to more mature stages. Colopl Next is known for its hands-on support approach, providing extensive resources through a network of over 200 portfolio companies, numerous advisors, and experts. This support is augmented by the diverse backgrounds of its team members, including former investment managers and successful entrepreneurs. The leadership team at Colopl Next includes key figures like Naruatsu Baba and Sehong Jang, who bring substantial experience and strategic vision to the firm. Startups seeking investment from Colopl Next are encouraged to showcase innovative technologies and robust growth potential​.

Comcast Ventures, established in 1999 and headquartered in New York, is the corporate venture capital arm of Comcast Corporation. The firm focuses on early to growth-stage investments across various sectors, including digital health, energy, fintech, future of work, and proptech. Leveraging the resources and network of Comcast NBCUniversal, Comcast Ventures aims to help its portfolio companies accelerate growth and achieve meaningful impact. Some of Comcast Ventures' notable investments include Slack, Nextdoor, Instacart, and DocuSign. These investments highlight the firm's focus on companies that drive innovation and shape the future of their respective industries. Recently, Comcast Ventures has made investments in companies like SafeBase, Hume, and HealthSnap, showcasing its commitment to supporting technology-driven solutions in healthcare and AI. The firm is led by a team of experienced partners, including Managing Partner Allison Goldberg, who plays a key role in guiding their investment strategy. Comcast Ventures' approach combines the agility of a venture fund with the strategic insights of a corporate investor, providing a comprehensive support system for startups.

Company Ventures is a seed-stage venture capital firm based in New York City. Founded in 2016, the firm is deeply embedded in the NYC tech ecosystem and is committed to building inclusive, values-driven startups. With a focus on industries like digital health, fintech, and enterprise software, Company Ventures invests across various stages from pre-seed to Series A, aiming to nurture long-term success and sustainable growth for its portfolio companies. The firm’s leadership team includes Matt Harrigan as CEO and Managing Partner, Michael Milstein as Executive Chair, and Nelson Boone Schubart as Head of Investments. They are known for their hands-on approach, providing not just capital but also strategic guidance and operational support for founders. Company Ventures is particularly committed to supporting underrepresented founders through initiatives like the Boost Fellowship, which partners with NYCEDC to provide mentorship, office space, and resources to diverse founders from historically underserved communities. The firm also emphasizes ethical leadership and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) through programs and resources designed to help startups build inclusive cultures from the outset. Overall, Company Ventures stands out for its community-centric approach, working with founders to align social impact with ambitious growth.

Compass Ventures Group is a venture capital and investment firm founded in 2007, headquartered in Hong Kong with deep Israel-China bridge operations. Founded by Dr. Ronen Dagon — a former Senior Advisor to the Israeli Minister of Economics under Prime Minister Shimon Peres and a former World Bank consultant — the firm is led by CEO Moshe Kamar and President Dan Raviv. Compass serves as a gateway into the Chinese market through established ties with the NDRC and NDRC-ICC. Key subsidiaries include Compass Bio Tech, Compass HLS, and the China-Israel Innovation Center in Beijing, launched in partnership with ZGC and the Haidian government. Through its Compass-Giza fund, the firm sources technology investments from Israel's startup ecosystem and deploys them into China, India, and broader emerging markets. Across 74 portfolio companies and roughly $5 million average checks, the firm has achieved 8 IPOs and 24 acquisitions. Notable exits include Altair, Applied Optoelectronics, and Magic Software Enterprises. Sectors span healthcare, agritech, homeland security, medical devices, water technologies, energy efficiency, and entertainment technologies. Compass Ventures' structural advantage lies in its institutional relationships on both sides of the Israel-China corridor. By combining Israeli technology sourcing with Chinese market access and government relationships, the firm creates a bridge few investors can replicate — enabling portfolio companies to reach large Asian markets that require local political and commercial partnerships to enter successfully.

Compound is a thesis-driven, research-centric investment firm that focuses on early-stage investments across deeply technical and science-driven areas. The firm is dedicated to accelerating the futures envisioned by its founders, helping them solve complex technical problems, communicate breakthroughs, and scale commercialization efforts. Founded by Michael Dempsey, Compound has a diverse team of investors, researchers, and operators with extensive domain expertise. Notable team members include General Partner David Hirsch and Venture Partners like Celeste Holz-Schietinger, who has a background in biology and was instrumental in creating plant-based meat products at Impossible Foods. Compound's portfolio is broad, encompassing sectors like AI/ML, robotics, healthcare, biology, and crypto. Notable investments include companies such as Deepgram, Hyphen, Arbitrum, and Dapper Labs. The firm emphasizes a hands-on approach and leverages its network and prior experiences to support the growth and success of its portfolio companies.

Conductive Ventures, established in 2017 by Carey Lai and Paul Yeh, is a venture capital firm focused on investing in early efficient growth technology companies. Based in Palo Alto, California, the firm manages $450 million in assets across its three funds. The firm's investment strategy centers on companies with at least $1 million in revenue that are efficient in their capital use and demonstrate significant growth potential. Conductive Ventures prioritizes investments in software, hardware, technology-enabled services, and blockchain, often targeting non-traditional founders who have raised and burned minimal capital before generating revenues. Conductive Ventures' portfolio includes notable companies such as Blueshift, CSC Generation, Forte, HireEZ, Jackpocket, Nice Healthcare, Self, Tripalink, and Versatile. The firm has achieved successful exits, including IPOs for Desktop Metal, Proterra, and Sprinklr, as well as acquisitions like Oculii by Ambarella and Travelbank by US Bank. The team, led by Managing Directors Carey Lai and Paul Yeh, takes a hands-on approach to support their portfolio companies, assisting with business development, go-to-market strategies, and access to further funding opportunities. Their dedication to working closely with founders aims to foster long-term growth and success.

Congruent Ventures is a leading early-stage venture capital firm focusing on climate tech and sustainability. Based in San Francisco, they have a robust portfolio featuring notable startups like AMP Robotics, Span.io, and Meati Foods. Since its inception in 2016, Congruent has specialized in North American investments, particularly at the pre-seed to Series A stages, across sectors including food, energy, and advanced materials. With $1 billion in assets under management, Congruent typically leads two-thirds of its investments and is often the first institutional investor in 80% of its portfolio companies. Their average check size varies but primarily targets early-stage funding needs. Recently, they've been highly active, closing their $275 million Fund III to continue backing transformative climate solutions. The team, led by co-founders Abe Yokell and Josh Posamentier, along with partners like Jackie Kossmann and Tanuj Dutta, combines deep expertise in climate tech and venture capital. They emphasize a hands-on approach, working closely with founders from inception to scaling. For startups seeking investment, Congruent Ventures values direct approaches via email and emphasizes alignment with their mission of tackling climate change through innovative technologies. They prefer entrepreneurs who can demonstrate substantial impact potential and readiness for early-stage investment​.

Conscience VC is an early-stage venture capital firm that focuses on funding innovative startups aiming to make a positive impact on the world. Founded in 2020 by Ariana Thacker, the firm is headquartered in Austin, Texas. Conscience VC invests primarily in the intersection of consumer and science, with a particular emphasis on sectors such as biotechnology, digital health, clean tech, and other socially responsible industries. The firm is notable for its commitment to diversity and inclusion, with over 50% of its portfolio companies led by female and diverse founders. Ariana Thacker, the driving force behind Conscience VC, is a passionate advocate for underrepresented groups in the venture capital space, leveraging her technical background in chemical engineering to support groundbreaking companies. Conscience VC has made 14 investments to date, including companies like Aqua Cultured Foods and Somite Therapeutics, and continues to prioritize Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles in its investment strategy.

Continental Grain Company, also known as Conti, is a privately-owned global investor with a rich history spanning over 200 years in the food and agribusiness sectors. Founded in 1813, the company operates across North America, Latin America, Asia, and Europe, making investments that cover the entire food supply chain, from production to processing and distribution. Conti's investment strategy focuses on leveraging its deep industry expertise, flexible capital, and extensive partnership network to build businesses that create long-term value. This includes backing early-stage growth companies that use cutting-edge technology to innovate within the agrifood space. Notable investments in their portfolio include Pivot Bio, Brightseed, and Bushel, which are leading advancements in ag biotech, digital infrastructure, and alternative proteins. In recent years, Continental Grain has expanded its footprint through significant acquisitions and partnerships. For example, the company formed a joint venture with Cargill to acquire Sanderson Farms, creating Wayne-Sanderson Farms, a major U.S. poultry business. This move underscores Conti's commitment to scaling its operations and maintaining a strong presence in the food production sector​.

Contour Venture Partners, based in New York City since 2005, specializes in seed-stage investments within the enterprise SaaS, vertical B2B SaaS, and financial services sectors. They are particularly focused on startups that leverage innovative software solutions. Contour is known for its significant early investments in notable companies such as Datadog, Movable Ink, and Ellevest. The firm primarily invests in the Northeastern United States, capitalizing on the region's robust technology and financial services sectors. Contour typically leads or co-leads investment rounds, with initial investments ranging from $500,000 to $2 million, and provides ongoing support through subsequent funding stages. Contour's investment strategy centers on partnering with passionate, experienced entrepreneurs who are committed to transforming their industries. They prioritize companies with scalable products, strong market potential, and capable management teams. Contour's active involvement includes board representation and strategic guidance in areas like sales, growth strategies, and exit planning. The team at Contour, led by co-founders Matt Gorin and Bob Greene, brings extensive venture capital and entrepreneurial experience. Their collective expertise spans multiple market cycles and industry sectors, enabling them to offer invaluable support to their portfolio companies. Startups seeking investment from Contour are advised to demonstrate a clear path to profitability and significant market impact. The firm values long-term partnerships and looks for leaders with integrity, deep industry knowledge, and a passion for their business.

Corazon Capital, established in 2014 and based in Chicago, Illinois, is a venture capital firm that focuses on early-stage investments. They have a diverse portfolio, emphasizing sectors such as consumer products, enterprise applications, AI, and travel technology. Notable investments include Mented Cosmetics, Laws of Motion, and Catalytic. The firm has successfully exited from several investments, including Mented Cosmetics and PrettyLitter. Co-founded by Steve Farsht and Sam Yagan, Corazon Capital leverages their extensive experience in building and scaling startups. The team provides strategic support, helping companies with fundraising, scaling, and navigating challenges. Their approach combines investing expertise with hands-on operational support, making them a valuable partner for startups looking to grow. Corazon Capital primarily invests in the United States but has also made investments in Canada. They typically lead or co-lead investment rounds, collaborating with other prominent venture funds such as Y Combinator and Chicago Ventures​. For startups seeking to engage with Corazon Capital, it’s essential to demonstrate a strong market fit and potential for significant growth. Their focus on early-stage investments means they are particularly interested in innovative solutions with the potential to disrupt existing markets.

Correlation Ventures, founded in 2006 and based in San Francisco, leverages predictive analytics to make investment decisions, positioning itself as a unique player in the venture capital landscape. With over 519 investments, the firm has backed notable companies such as IonQ, MosaicML, Imperfect Foods, and Personal Capital. Their innovative approach allows them to make rapid investment decisions, typically within two weeks, without traditional due diligence, making them a preferred co-investor for many lead venture capitalists​​. Correlation Ventures typically invests between $1 million and $4 million, focusing on diverse sectors including AI, fintech, healthcare, and consumer products. Their portfolio is characterized by a high level of diversification, including early investments in companies that have achieved significant exits such as Synthorx, which was acquired by Sanofi for $2.5 billion, and Personal Capital, acquired by Empower for $875 million​​. The firm was co-founded by David Coats and Trevor Kienzle, who continue to lead the team alongside key figures like Wesley Barrow and Grace Chui-Miller. With offices in San Francisco, San Diego, and New York City, Correlation Ventures continues to expand its influence by applying data-driven insights to support its investment strategy and portfolio growth​.

Cota Capital, founded in 2015 and based in San Francisco, is a multi-stage investment firm focusing on enterprise technology. The firm aims to support companies through both private and public investments, leveraging a strategic and operational approach to drive growth. Cota Capital invests in sectors such as AI, cloud computing, fintech, and cybersecurity, with notable portfolio companies including OpenGov and Mission Bio. Led by founder Bobby Yazdani, Cota Capital emphasizes a partnership model, working closely with portfolio companies to build long-term value. Their investment range typically covers early to growth stages, providing substantial support to innovative ventures​.

Cottonwood Technology Fund is a venture capital firm specializing in seed and early-stage investments in technology-driven businesses. With offices in Santa Fe, New Mexico, and Enschede, the Netherlands, the fund focuses on sectors such as chemistry and material sciences, photonics, robotics, medical technology, and clean energy. Their investment strategy targets hard science and deep tech startups, providing crucial support for commercialization and global scaling. Notable investments include companies like Skorpios Technologies, BayoTech, Respira Therapeutics, Infinitum Electric, and Exagen. Cottonwood is known for its hands-on approach, offering more than just financial backing by actively helping with strategy alignment, market entry, and connecting portfolio companies with potential customers and strategic partners. The firm’s team, led by Managing Director Dave Blivin and General Partner Alain le Loux, brings diverse expertise and a strong entrepreneurial mindset, making Cottonwood a valuable partner for startups in their portfolio.

Coughdrop Capital is an early-stage venture capital firm founded by brothers Stu and Austin Smith in 2015. Based in Bend, Oregon, with a presence in San Francisco and Los Angeles, the firm typically invests $25-50K in pre-seed and seed-stage startups across various sectors. Their investment philosophy centers on backing smart, ambitious founders regardless of the industry​. The firm has a diverse portfolio that includes notable investments in companies such as Superhuman, Lattice, Mercury, Ware, Dreamship, Ever Loved, Housable, Fast, and Catch. Coughdrop Capital is known for its founder-friendly approach, often providing strategic guidance, valuable introductions, and operational support to its portfolio companies​. Stu Smith brings extensive experience from his roles at WarnerMedia and Teespring, focusing on driving innovation in the entertainment and media sectors. Austin Petersmith, on the other hand, is the founder and CEO of Capiche, a platform for honest conversations about SaaS, and has a background in growth and marketing roles at early-stage startups​. Coughdrop Capital's investment strategy emphasizes quick decision-making and maintaining a supportive relationship with founders. They have been praised for their helpfulness, integrity, and ability to stay out of the way when not needed, while being available to offer support and resources when required.