E-commerce & Retail VC Funds

Sand Hill Angels, based in Silicon Valley, is a prominent angel investment group known for backing innovative startups across various industries. Their portfolio includes notable companies like Sweetgreen, Vaxart, and Archer, highlighting their commitment to disruptive solutions and defensible technologies. They have a strong focus on sectors such as information technology, healthcare, and consumer products, reflecting their diverse investment strategy​​. Geographically, Sand Hill Angels primarily invests in startups based in the United States, particularly within the Bay Area. They engage in early-stage to B-stage investments, providing not only capital but also mentorship and strategic guidance from their 140+ members, who are experienced entrepreneurs and business leaders​. The average investment size ranges from $1 million to $5 million, with a typical focus on companies with strong teams and clear go-to-market plans. They are known for being active co-investors and often collaborate with other venture capital funds to support the growth of their portfolio companies​​. Key team members include successful technology professionals and angel investors dedicated to fostering the growth of startup companies. For entrepreneurs looking to connect with Sand Hill Angels, it’s beneficial to emphasize innovative, scalable business models and a well-defined market problem​​. In summary, Sand Hill Angels is a vital player in the angel investing landscape, leveraging its members' expertise to nurture and accelerate the growth of high-potential startups.

Saola Ventures, founded in 2020, focuses on early-stage technology companies across Southeast Asia and the U.S. It supports businesses disrupting commerce, fintech, enterprise software, and sectors like healthtech, agtech, and sustainability. Their notable portfolio includes Neat Commerce, Flip.id, Shipper, and Finantier, all fast-growing startups in e-commerce, logistics, and fintech. Saola is sector-agnostic, but they lean towards companies leveraging technology for positive transformation. Based in Singapore and New York, the firm typically writes checks between $10K to $100K for seed and Series A rounds. While they don’t often lead rounds, they are known for partnering closely with founders, providing not just capital but also mentorship and strategic guidance. Saola is highly selective, drawn to founders who aim to reshape entire markets. The fund's founder, Tarik Abbas, is based in New York and has extensive experience in investment and advisory roles. Startups looking to engage Saola are encouraged to email directly with a clear pitch and detailed company overview​.

SAP.iO, established in 2017, is SAP's strategic business unit dedicated to incubating, accelerating, and scaling startup innovation. The initiative focuses on investing in early-stage startups that leverage cutting-edge technologies such as AI, machine learning, IoT, blockchain, and more. SAP.iO has invested in over 300 external startups and internal ventures, supporting them through its global network of equity-free accelerator programs known as SAP.iO Foundries​​. Notable investments from SAP.iO include companies like Deepgram, an AI-based speech recognition platform, and Anthropic, which focuses on AI safety. The program has helped produce five unicorns and facilitated 70 exits, contributing significantly to the creation of over 42,000 jobs across 45 countries​​. SAP.iO emphasizes inclusive entrepreneurship and supports diverse founders, with a significant portion of its investments directed towards women and minority-led startups. The initiative is also integrated into SAP’s partner ecosystem, allowing startups to benefit from SAP's extensive customer base and market reach​​.

Sapphire Ventures, founded in 2011 and based in Menlo Park, California, is a leading global venture capital firm. They focus on growth-stage investments in enterprise technology companies. Notable portfolio companies include DocuSign, Fitbit, DataRobot, and Sumo Logic. These companies highlight Sapphire's emphasis on transformative enterprise technologies and their potential for significant impact and growth. Sapphire Ventures operates with a strategic focus on B2B SaaS, AI, machine learning, cybersecurity, and data analytics. They typically invest in Series B through IPO stages, providing both capital and strategic support to help companies scale. Their average investment size ranges from $10 million to $50 million, reflecting their commitment to substantial growth opportunities. The firm’s geographic reach includes the U.S., Europe, and Israel, allowing them to tap into diverse and innovative markets. Sapphire Ventures is known for its hands-on approach, offering portfolio companies access to a robust network of industry leaders, operational best practices, and customer introductions. This support has been instrumental in the success of their portfolio companies, aiding in significant milestones such as IPOs and acquisitions​. Key team members include Nino Marakovic, CEO and Managing Director, and Jai Das, President and Managing Director, who bring extensive experience in venture capital and technology investments. Startups seeking to partner with Sapphire Ventures should demonstrate strong growth potential, innovative technology, and a clear path to scalability. Approaching them through their network or via their platform can enhance the likelihood of securing investment

Sarus Select Capital is a boutique investment firm based in London, offering venture capital and portfolio management services. Established in 2014, the firm focuses on venture capital investments across a range of sectors, including fintech, artificial intelligence, software, and mobile services. With a deep emphasis on creating trusted and transparent relationships with investors and founders, Sarus Select Capital takes a hands-on approach, performing in-depth analysis of every business before making an investment. The firm specializes in early-stage and growth companies, investing in sectors such as data platforms, analytics, and digital services. Their portfolio includes innovative companies like Togather, Jingle, and Hazy, which operate in both the UK and the US. Sarus Select Capital's expertise lies in managing a balanced portfolio that spans venture capital and listed equity, providing flexibility to adapt to market changes. The core team, led by Altan Alpay and Emrah Kagitcibasi, brings decades of experience in investment banking, portfolio management, and venture capital. Their goal is to generate superior returns through carefully assessed risk and reward strategies while supporting the development of groundbreaking companies in emerging markets. The firm is authorized and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), ensuring a secure and compliant investment environment for sophisticated investors.

Satgana is a climate-focused venture capital firm that invests in early-stage startups across Europe and Africa. Founded with a mission to support innovations that tackle climate change, the firm focuses on areas such as renewable energy, carbon removal, circular economy solutions, and sustainable food systems. Satgana typically invests between €100,000 and €300,000 in pre-seed and seed-stage startups. Their portfolio includes companies like Orbio Earth, which offers methane intelligence software, and Mazi Mobility, a Kenyan startup developing electric motorbike networks. Satgana also provides hands-on support to its portfolio companies, helping with technology development, impact management, and strategic growth. The firm is led by a diverse team of experienced founders, operators, and investors, including CEO Romain Diaz and several venture partners. They emphasize a collaborative approach, leveraging their extensive network to provide startups with far-reaching connections and operational support.

Saudi Aramco Energy Ventures is the corporate venture capital arm of Saudi Aramco, established in 2012 with an initial fund of $500 million. SAEV targets early-stage and high-growth companies, particularly those with strategic relevance to Aramco's core businesses. Their investment focus includes energy efficiency, renewable energy, advanced materials, and sustainability technologies. Notable investments by SAEV include Form Energy, a company specializing in long-duration energy storage; NexWafe, a manufacturer of high-efficiency monocrystalline silicon wafers; and Utilidata, which develops energy optimization software. SAEV has a global footprint, with offices in Houston, Boston, Aberdeen, Norway, London, and Beijing. Over the years, SAEV has made 45 investments, primarily in the U.S. and Europe, but is now expanding its presence in Asia. Recently, SAEV announced plans to launch a new $500 million fund to further invest in renewable energy and energy efficiency technologies, continuing their strategy of fostering innovations that align with global energy transformation trends. The firm also emphasizes investments in hydrogen production and carbon capture technologies, reflecting its commitment to sustainability and reducing environmental impact.

Saudi Venture Capital Company (SVC) is a government-backed venture capital firm established in 2018 to boost the growth of startups and SMEs in Saudi Arabia. SVC operates under the umbrella of Monsha'at, the Small and Medium Enterprises General Authority, as part of the country's Financial Sector Development Program. The firm has SAR 2.8 billion ($750 million) in assets under management, aimed at minimizing the funding gaps for emerging businesses by investing in venture capital and private equity funds, as well as co-investing with angel groups. SVC's strategy focuses on stimulating the Saudi venture capital ecosystem by making investments across various sectors, including fintech, e-commerce, and technology. They target companies at all stages, from pre-seed to pre-IPO, playing a critical role in developing the Kingdom's entrepreneurial landscape. Notable investments include contributions to both local and regional funds, which have supported over 700 startups. Led by CEO Dr. Nabeel Koshak, SVC also partners with local and international VC firms, continuously scaling its network and resources. Its mission is to empower high-growth companies to flourish by offering flexible capital, helping Saudi Arabia become a leading player in the MENA venture capital market. SVC remains integral in supporting the country's Vision 2030, fostering innovation and entrepreneurship.

Sawari Ventures is a leading venture capital firm based in Cairo, Egypt, focusing on knowledge and innovation-based technologies across North Africa. Established in 2010 by Ahmed El Alfi and Hany Al-Sonbaty, the firm has played a pivotal role in supporting the region’s tech ecosystem. With $70 million in assets under management, Sawari has invested in over 30 companies across sectors such as fintech, healthtech, edtech, logistics, and e-commerce. Sawari primarily targets early and growth-stage startups, with investments ranging from $1M to $3M per deal. Notable portfolio companies include SWVL, a ride-sharing platform that went public, and Instabug, a software bug reporting tool used by global tech companies. The firm also plays a crucial role in Egypt’s startup scene by founding Flat6Labs, one of the region’s most prominent seed accelerators. In addition to its investment activity, Sawari is committed to responsible investing, integrating ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) criteria into its decision-making process. With its recent $1 billion fund dedicated to Egyptian tech startups, Sawari continues to drive growth by fostering innovation and supporting scalable businesses that can transform the local economy. Sawari’s dual fund structure—combining local and international capital—enables it to leverage deep local knowledge with global expertise, solidifying its position as a crucial player in North Africa’s venture capital landscape.

Scalar Capital is a crypto-focused hedge fund based in San Francisco, founded in 2017 by Linda Xie, a former Coinbase product manager, and Jordan Clifford. The fund specializes in digital assets, providing exposure to promising cryptocurrencies and blockchain projects. With a strong emphasis on decentralized finance (DeFi), Scalar's portfolio includes investments in projects like 0x and dYdX, positioning them as early movers in the crypto space. Scalar Capital typically targets pre-seed and seed investments in blockchain technologies and decentralized protocols, with a focus on infrastructure and security tools that can shape the future of the digital asset ecosystem. The fund is known for its strategic approach, often co-investing with other notable players in the crypto space. Their investment strategy revolves around long-term bets on projects with strong community backing and innovative use cases in decentralized applications. They prefer to be approached through their network, and they often offer not just capital but also deep expertise in compliance, regulation, and product strategy, thanks to Linda Xie’s experience at Coinbase. With headquarters in the U.S., Scalar continues to be a key player in the evolving world of digital assets, actively managing a selective portfolio of high-impact blockchain startups.

Scale Venture Partners is a leading venture capital firm that invests in early-stage technology companies, particularly those leveraging AI, SaaS, fintech, and security solutions. Based in Foster City, California, Scale typically leads Series A or B rounds, helping startups transition from founder-led growth to scalable, go-to-market machines. Their portfolio includes prominent companies like HubSpot, JFrog, and Papaya Global, which demonstrate their focus on transformative business software across various sectors. Scale Venture Partners takes an active role in its portfolio companies, often serving on boards and providing tailored support through its Scaling Platform, which offers access to executive networks, go-to-market strategies, and benchmarking tools. Their strategic focus on emerging technologies allows them to identify and nurture companies poised for category leadership in areas such as infrastructure, AI, and productivity. With over $2.8 billion in assets under management and a $900 million fund raised in 2022, Scale continues to back high-growth startups across North America, Europe, and Israel. They aim to support companies all the way to IPO, offering deep industry insights and operational expertise. Founders looking for strategic backing to scale their enterprises find a valuable partner in Scale Venture Partners.

ScaleIT Ventures, established in 2018, is a Milan-based venture capital firm focused on supporting growth-stage companies in the digital, software, and technology sectors. The firm primarily works with scaleups from Italy and Southeast Europe, connecting them with international investors and growth capital. ScaleIT operates through its platform, which showcases promising scaleups to a global network of venture capitalists, aiming to foster international expansion and further growth. With a strong focus on business productivity software, ScaleIT Ventures typically invests in later-stage companies that are generating revenue. Notable investments include Buzzoole, a social media marketing platform, and Artemest, an e-commerce platform for luxury handmade goods. The firm has a reputation for helping companies secure significant funding rounds, as demonstrated by its involvement in multi-million dollar deals. Founded by Lorenzo Franchini, ScaleIT Ventures emphasizes creating global opportunities for regional companies. By leveraging its extensive network of partners and investors, the firm assists scaleups in navigating international markets and achieving long-term growth. Through initiatives like the ScaleIT platform, the firm has positioned itself as a vital bridge between Southeast Europe and global investors​.

Schematic Ventures is a dynamic early-stage venture capital fund based in San Francisco, specializing in investments in industrial technology. With a sharp focus on sectors such as supply chain, manufacturing, commerce infrastructure, and digital industrial, they aim to foster innovation from pre-seed to Series A stages. Their investment portfolio includes notable startups like Flock Freight, Outrider, and Leaf Logistics, reflecting their commitment to transforming traditional industries through technological advancements. The fund strategically targets companies across North America, leading and co-investing in rounds, typically writing checks between $1M to $2M. Schematic Ventures prides itself on a hands-on approach, leveraging deep industry insights and a robust network to support portfolio companies. They have been particularly active, with investments in transformative companies such as Root AI and ElectroTempo. Led by Julian Counihan and Alex Freed, the team brings extensive expertise from backgrounds in technology development, investment banking, and strategic growth in top-tier firms. Julian, with a systems engineering background and an MBA from MIT, has a track record in warehouse automation and technology investment. Alex, with an MBA from Columbia and experience in product launch and international growth at Google, complements the leadership with a broad strategic vision. For startups seeking investment, Schematic Ventures values innovative solutions that address complex industrial challenges. They prefer pitches that demonstrate a strong understanding of market needs and a clear path to scalability, often sourced through a proactive network and industry events​.

SciFi VC is an early-stage venture capital firm founded by Max and Nellie Levchin, focusing on fintech, marketplaces, and scientific breakthroughs. The firm partners with founders who display intense curiosity and intellectual depth, addressing hard problems that often require innovative and science-driven solutions. SciFi VC supports startups from the brainstorming stage, helping define product and strategy before leading the seed round. They bring deep domain expertise and intellectual rigor to early-stage investments, offering strategic support through critical product, strategy, and fundraising decisions. Notable investments include Brex and Loft, with SciFi VC providing essential support in areas such as fundraising, partnerships, and operational advice. The firm also makes opportunistic investments in later-stage companies showing exceptional growth, ensuring long-term partnership and value creation. By emphasizing technology's role in creating next-generation financial products, digital marketplaces, and commercializing scientific advancements, SciFi VC aims to turn science fiction into reality and foster high-impact ventures.

Scottish Equity Partners (SEP) is a prominent European growth equity investor that focuses on scaling fast-growing technology companies. Founded in 2000 and headquartered in Glasgow, Scotland, SEP has a strong presence in both the UK and internationally, with offices in London and strong connections across Europe and the US. SEP's portfolio includes notable companies like Skyscanner, which grew significantly under SEP’s investment, expanding from a small flight search business into a major global online travel brand before its acquisition by Trip.com for £1.5 billion in 2016. Another standout is Babbel, an online language learning app that became a market leader with over 10 million active subscribers, facilitated by SEP’s support in scaling internationally and strengthening its executive team. The firm typically invests in enterprise software and technology scaleups, with recent investments in companies such as Braincube, Cora Systems, and Pelion. SEP takes a hands-on approach, providing not only capital but also strategic guidance, leveraging their extensive network to help companies achieve sustainable growth. SEP’s team includes experienced partners like Calum Paterson and Stuart Paterson, who play active roles in their portfolio companies, ensuring that the companies have the necessary resources and guidance to succeed.

Scout Ventures is a seed-stage venture capital firm based in Austin, Texas, focusing on dual-use technologies that have applications in both the private sector and government. Their investment areas include AI, machine learning, quantum computing, robotics, advanced materials science, security, space, and advanced energy. Notable portfolio companies include Taqtile, EnCharge AI, Tomahawk Robotics, DeepSig, and Assurely. These companies are working on innovative solutions ranging from AI-accelerated chips and robotic automation to targeted insurance products and sustainable agriculture technologies​. Scout Ventures typically leads seed rounds with investments ranging from $1 to $3 million and reserves capital to follow on through Series B. The firm’s team comprises mostly military service academy graduates with extensive experience in both government and the intelligence community, which provides them with unique insights and access to non-dilutive capital through defense and national lab networks​.

Scribble Ventures, founded in 2020 and based in Portola Valley, California, is an early-stage venture capital firm that focuses on pre-seed through Series A investments. The firm has a diverse portfolio spanning sectors like information technology, healthcare, software as a service, and consumer products. Notable investments include Whatnot, a platform for live video auctions, Synctera, which provides banking-as-a-service solutions, TrueNorth, a company focused on transforming trucker management, and WellTheory, which offers a membership-based approach to chronic care management. Scribble Ventures is led by Elizabeth Weil, who brings extensive experience from her tenure at OpenAI, Twitter, and Andreessen Horowitz. Scribble Ventures emphasizes a founder-first culture, providing not just capital but also strategic guidance and leveraging their extensive network to support portfolio companies. This support ranges from key introductions to aiding in product development and market strategies. The firm has made 130 investments to date and has seen several successful exits, including Run The World and Welcome.

Script Capital is a San Francisco-based venture capital firm specializing in early-stage investments in internet and software startups. Founded by AJ Solimine and Evan Tana, the firm focuses on partnering with technical founders at the pre-seed and seed stages, typically investing between $250,000 and $1 million per round​​. Their portfolio features a range of innovative companies, including Patreon, The Graph, Audius, and Sqreen. They have also invested in emerging companies like Lago, Doppel, and Orgnostic, which reflect their interest in web3, data, collaboration, and identity products​​. Script Capital's strategy emphasizes finding and supporting founders from the earliest stages of their journey, helping them navigate the challenges of achieving product-market fit. This hands-on approach is complemented by their Community Data project, which provides an open-data platform to assist founders in identifying and connecting with the right investors​​. The firm's recent $38 million pre-seed fund underscores its commitment to fostering early-stage innovation. This second fund has already demonstrated strong performance, with their inaugural fund marked up over five times and having distributed over 100% back to investors​.

Scrum Ventures is an early-stage venture capital firm founded in 2013, with headquarters in San Francisco and Tokyo. The firm has a robust portfolio of over 120 investments, focusing on sectors such as mobility, fintech, IoT, VR, commerce, and healthcare. Notable investments include companies like May Mobility, Kidaptive, and ExaWizards. The firm takes a thematic approach to investing, identifying emerging trends and supporting startups with capital, strategic advice, and access to a global network of corporate partners, particularly in Japan. Scrum Ventures has successfully leveraged its strong ties with Japanese corporations like Panasonic and Fujitsu to provide startups with opportunities for growth and innovation​. Led by founder Tak Miyata, Scrum Ventures emphasizes collaboration and co-innovation, offering startups not only financial backing but also direct assistance with hiring, fundraising, and market entry strategies. Their hands-on approach and extensive network make them a valuable partner for early-stage companies looking to scale globally. For startups, approaching Scrum Ventures with a clear value proposition and a strong potential for international expansion, particularly in the Japanese market, can be highly beneficial​.

Social Enterprise Greenhouse (SEG) is a Rhode Island-based organization dedicated to supporting businesses and entrepreneurs committed to social impact. Through its wide network, SEG has helped over 1,800 enterprises that collectively improve the lives of more than 5 million people. Their focus is on creating a more equitable and resilient economy, providing comprehensive services including incubators, accelerators, and a microgrant fund. SEG supports ventures in areas such as education, healthcare, affordable housing, and clean energy. The organization runs programs like the Impact Accelerator, which has helped over 240 social enterprises scale their impact, and the Incubator, which assists early-stage entrepreneurs in launching sustainable ventures. SEG places a special emphasis on inclusivity, with over 60% of the ventures they support being women-owned and around 40% owned by people of color. Led by CEO Julie Owens, SEG is deeply embedded in the local community, operating hubs in Providence, Pawtucket, and Newport. Their programs are available in both English and Spanish, ensuring broader access for underrepresented groups. Startups looking to engage with SEG can expect mentorship, networking, and even funding through their loan and microgrant programs​.

Seaya Ventures is a leading venture capital firm with offices in Madrid and Mexico City, focusing on backing exceptional entrepreneurs in Europe and Latin America. Since its inception in 2013, Seaya has raised over €600 million across multiple funds, investing in early-stage technology companies that have global ambitions. The firm primarily targets sectors like fintech, climate tech, SaaS, and marketplaces, aiming to support startups that can scale internationally. Some of Seaya's most notable investments include Glovo, Cabify, and Wallbox, showcasing their commitment to high-growth sectors like mobility and green energy solutions. Seaya’s portfolio also includes Clarity AI, Clicars, and Pachama, indicating a strong focus on sustainability and impact-driven technology. Seaya's investment strategy revolves around partnering with founders to help them scale globally by providing strategic guidance, operational support, and access to an extensive network of investors and corporations. With its deep connections across Europe and Latin America, Seaya is uniquely positioned to help companies expand across these regions while leveraging its knowledge and expertise in global market trends. The firm’s newest initiative, Seaya Andromeda, focuses on climate-tech startups, marking its commitment to addressing global sustainability challenges through innovation.

SEB Alliance is the corporate venture capital arm of Groupe SEB, a global leader in small domestic equipment. Launched in 2011, SEB Alliance focuses on investing in disruptive technologies and supporting early-stage companies across various sectors, including consumer products, smart home solutions, and sustainability. With investments ranging from €100,000 to €1.5 million, the firm actively seeks out startups that can bring innovation to market, aligning with SEB's mission to stay at the forefront of technological advancements. SEB Alliance plays a key role in Groupe SEB’s open innovation strategy by identifying promising startups and integrating them into the group’s broader ecosystem. The firm has backed over 40 companies, including successful exits like Glovo, the on-demand delivery service, and Alkemics, a retail collaboration platform. SEB Alliance is highly focused on building long-term partnerships, often working with startups to develop new products or business models that can scale globally. SEB Alliance's approach to venture capital is highly strategic, leveraging the vast industrial and operational resources of Groupe SEB to accelerate the growth of its portfolio companies. With a clear emphasis on sustainable innovation and digital transformation, the firm continues to expand its investments across Europe, North America, and beyond, particularly targeting solutions that align with consumer trends and environmental challenges.

SEB Group, headquartered in Stockholm, Sweden, is a leading financial services group with a rich history dating back to 1856. The company has established itself as a major player in corporate and investment banking, particularly in northern Europe, while also offering extensive retail banking services in Sweden and the Baltics. SEB's business strategy, outlined in its 2030 Strategy and the three-year business plan for 2022–2024, focuses on accelerating efforts, strategic change, strategic partnerships, and efficiency improvements. These initiatives aim to future-proof the bank by aligning with technological advancements, sustainability goals, and evolving customer needs. In sustainability, SEB is committed to significant reductions in fossil fuel credit exposure, aiming for a 45-60% reduction by 2030 compared to 2019 levels. By the end of 2023, they had already achieved a 39% reduction. Additionally, through SEB Greentech Venture Capital, the bank has increased its investments in green technology solutions by 239% since 2021, focusing on sectors like renewable energy, water management, and circular economy models. SEB is also heavily involved in sustainable finance. In 2023, it facilitated the issuance of SEK 111 billion in global sustainability and sustainability-linked bonds and increased the volume of green mortgages by 119%, amounting to SEK 17.3 billion. The bank's long-term financial targets include maintaining a strong balance sheet, competitive return on equity, and a high Common Equity Tier 1 capital ratio. SEB's dedication to sustainability is further evidenced by its involvement in the Net-Zero Asset Managers initiative, committing to achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions for all assets under management by 2040. The bank also engages extensively in corporate governance, with SEB Investment Management AB conducting over 2,800 dialogues on sustainability and governance issues in 2023.

Secocha Ventures, founded in 2013 and headquartered in Miami, Florida, is a dynamic venture capital firm with a strong track record in the FinTech, HealthTech, and Consumer Products & Services sectors. Their notable portfolio includes investments in companies like Brigit, Rebag, and Eaze, reflecting their commitment to supporting innovative, high-growth startups. Secocha Ventures primarily invests in Pre-Seed, Seed, and Series A stages, maintaining a geographically agnostic approach with investments in the USA, India, Israel, and France. Their investment strategy focuses on identifying disruptive companies and providing not just capital, but also mentorship and strategic guidance. They prefer B2C over B2B ventures, valuing persistence and transparency in their partnerships. The average check size varies, but they are known for leading rounds and being actively involved in the fundraising process. Secocha's team, led by founder Sanket Parekh and supported by key members like Bharath Thankavel and Tanai Kamat, brings a wealth of expertise and a hands-on approach to every investment. Startups seeking to engage with Secocha should be prepared to demonstrate clear market potential and a strong founding team. The firm values thoughtful introductions and prefers pitches that showcase strategic fit and potential for significant impact. With a collaborative and transparent approach, Secocha Ventures stands out as a vital partner for early-stage startups looking to disrupt the status quo and achieve scalable growth.

Second Century Ventures is a leading venture capital fund focused on innovation within the real estate sector. Backed by the National Association of REALTORS® (NAR), SCV leverages its vast network to support the growth of its portfolio companies. Notable investments include DocuSign, Adwerx, and Lulafit, showcasing SCV's commitment to transformative real estate technologies. SCV primarily invests in early to mid-stage companies with a focus on SaaS, big data, digital media, fintech, and business services. Their strategic approach includes a round-agnostic policy, targeting companies with strong market traction and proven product-market fit. They operate globally, with significant investments across the U.S., Canada, Europe, and Asia. SCV's unique value proposition lies in its comprehensive support system, which goes beyond financial backing to include strategic counsel and access to NAR's extensive resources. This support is exemplified by their REACH growth accelerator, designed to help startups scale within the real estate vertical. REACH has expanded internationally, with programs in Australia, Canada, and the UK. The team is led by Managing Director Mark Birschbach, who brings extensive experience from his previous roles in real estate tech startups and investment banking, and Managing Partner Dave Garland, known for his strategic advisory expertise in real estate. They are headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, with additional operations in Silicon Valley. For startups, SCV values strong teams and innovative technologies. They prefer direct introductions or well-prepared executive summaries and investor presentations to initiate contact, emphasizing their long-term commitment to fostering industry growth and technological advancement.

Seed Capital, a premier venture capital firm based in Denmark, specializes in early-stage investments, particularly focusing on Danish startups or those with strong ties to Denmark. Established in 2004, Seed Capital has played a significant role in nurturing some of the most successful startups in the region. Their notable investments include Vivino, Lunar, Templafy, and Trustpilot, showcasing their broad sector expertise ranging from fintech to consumer internet and enterprise software. Seed Capital's investment strategy revolves around leading seed and Series A rounds with check sizes typically ranging from €2 million to €4 million, but they also maintain substantial reserves for follow-on investments to support companies through their growth stages. Seed Capital's approach is highly hands-on, providing portfolio companies with strategic support and access to a vast network of industry contacts. This includes operational assistance, business development, and guidance on subsequent funding rounds. The firm's commitment to long-term partnerships and deep engagement with founders has been a cornerstone of their success. The investment team, led by Managing Partners Lars Andersen and Ulla Brockenhuus-Schack, boasts a wealth of experience in scaling startups and driving value creation. With a gender-diverse team, Seed Capital emphasizes inclusive growth and leverages a collaborative approach to foster innovation within its portfolio.

Seedcamp is a leading early-stage venture capital firm in Europe, with a focus on backing ambitious founders building disruptive technology across various sectors. Founded in 2007, Seedcamp has a portfolio of over 460 companies, including high-profile successes like Revolut, UiPath, and Wise. Several of its investments have grown into unicorns, and two companies have gone public. The firm is sector-agnostic, investing in areas such as fintech, artificial intelligence, healthtech, and cybersecurity. Seedcamp typically invests early, providing first checks of up to $1 million in Angel and Seed rounds. Their approach combines the agility of an angel investor with the resources and operational support of a seasoned VC. Through their extensive network, including the Seedcamp Expert Collective (SxC), founders gain access to top operators from companies like Uber, Stripe, and Cloudflare, who offer guidance and mentorship to help startups scale quickly. Seedcamp is deeply embedded in Europe’s tech ecosystem, continually launching initiatives like Seedsummit to support early-stage founders with legal and operational advice. With their latest $180M Fund VI, they are well-positioned to lead the next decade of European tech growth​.

SeedPlus is a Singapore-based early-stage venture capital firm that focuses on product-driven, deep-tech startups across Asia. Founded in 2016, the firm raised $18 million in its debut fund, backed by major players like Jungle Ventures, Cisco, and Eight Roads Ventures. SeedPlus targets innovative companies in sectors such as SaaS, fintech, AI, and e-commerce, aiming to support them from seed to Series A. The firm typically invests between $500K to $1 million per deal and plays a hands-on role in helping startups scale regionally and globally. Key portfolio companies include Homage, a caregiver marketplace, and EngageRocket, a SaaS platform focused on human resources analytics. SeedPlus is known for leveraging its extensive network of partners, such as Cisco, to provide startups with access to strategic resources, talent, and customers, giving them what they call an “unfair advantage” in the market. The team at SeedPlus, led by partners like Tiang Lim Foo, emphasizes the importance of investing in strong, execution-focused teams and targeting large, scalable markets. Their investment philosophy centers on building long-term relationships with founders, ensuring alignment on strategy and growth post-investment. This approach has led to significant exits and strong growth across their portfolio​.

SEEDRA Ventures is an early-stage venture capital firm based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, focused on fostering innovation and supporting disruptive technologies across various sectors in the region. Established with a mission to accelerate the growth of startups, SEEDRA provides both pre-seed and early-stage funding, helping entrepreneurs bring their ideas to life. The firm takes a hands-on approach, offering more than just capital. SEEDRA actively partners with its portfolio companies, providing technical expertise, mentorship, and access to an extensive network of industry professionals and strategic partners. Their focus spans multiple industries, including tech, retail, industrials, and financial services. SEEDRA Ventures also emphasizes scalability, offering guidance on building internal teams, navigating regulatory challenges, and developing go-to-market strategies. Their robust advisory network ensures that founders are well-supported as they tackle the challenges of growth. Moreover, the firm provides back-office support, recruitment services, and access to tools like AWS and Salesforce, which are critical for scaling startups. By focusing on cultivating the next generation of regional businesses, SEEDRA Ventures plays a vital role in driving the entrepreneurial ecosystem in Saudi Arabia, aligning with the broader goals of economic transformation under Vision 2030.

4Founders Capital is a Barcelona-based venture capital firm founded in 2017 by Jesús Monleón, Marc Badosa, Javier Pérez-Tenessa, and Marek Fodor. The firm focuses on early-stage investments, particularly in disruptive technology and internet-enabled businesses across Europe. They aim to support ambitious founders with an international mindset who are capable of creating large-scale companies exceeding €300 million in value. 4Founders Capital typically invests in pre-seed to Series A+ stages, with investment sizes ranging from €100,000 to €4 million. The firm prefers to take minority stakes and often co-invests with other experienced venture capital firms and business angels. Notable portfolio companies include Glovo, Holded, and Gamestry, highlighting their commitment to high-growth potential ventures. The team at 4Founders Capital brings extensive experience as serial entrepreneurs and investors, providing not only capital but also strategic guidance to help startups scale effectively. They leverage a robust network of co-investors and industry experts to add value to their portfolio companies. Recent investments reflect their focus on innovative sectors, with companies like TaxDown and Zerod (Network Management Software) being part of their portfolio. The firm remains active in the investment community, continually seeking opportunities to empower and partner with groundbreaking startups. For startups looking to engage with 4Founders Capital, demonstrating a strong technological foundation and scalable business model aligned with their investment criteria is essential​.

Selva Ventures, founded in 2019, is an early-stage venture capital firm based in Los Angeles that specializes in health and wellness consumer brands. With a mission to make healthier living more accessible, affordable, and enjoyable, Selva Ventures invests primarily in seed and Series A startups with less than $10 million in sales. The firm has a strong emphasis on categories such as food and beverage, personal care, beauty, and wellness, with a growing interest in the beauty and personal care sectors due to their high margins and repeat purchase potential. Selva Ventures is known for its hands-on approach, providing not only capital but also strategic resources and emotional support to its portfolio companies. Notable investments include brands like MUD\WTR, a functional coffee alternative, and Surely, a non-alcoholic wine, both of which align with the firm’s focus on innovative products that resonate emotionally with consumers. The firm’s portfolio is also notable for its diversity, with over 50% of companies led by female or minority founders. Under the leadership of Kiva Dickinson, Selva Ventures uses a proprietary "5M" framework—focusing on Megatrend, Matter, Management, Momentum, and Market—to evaluate potential investments objectively. This approach has helped the firm establish strong relationships within the consumer goods community, including partnerships with industry giants like Unilever Ventures​.

Semillero Partners is a San Juan-based venture capital firm that was founded in 2016. The firm specializes in early and growth-stage investments within the food, beverage, food tech, and wellness sectors, with a strong emphasis on sustainability and transformative change. Their investment approach combines capital with hands-on support, leveraging expertise in management, distribution, operations, and marketing to help portfolio companies scale effectively. Semillero Partners typically invests in Seed and Series A rounds, with check sizes ranging from $1 million to $3 million. Their geographic focus includes the United States, Puerto Rico, Latin America, and select international markets like Europe and Israel. The firm is known for backing companies that are driving innovation in "Better-For-You" food products and sustainable agriculture technologies. The founding partners, Alex Borschow and Gualberto Rodriguez, bring significant experience in managing and scaling companies within their focus sectors. Semillero’s portfolio includes companies such as RobinFood, Jiant, and Seal the Seasons, reflecting their commitment to sustainable and impactful businesses. Semillero’s connection to Puerto Rico is particularly noteworthy, as they seek to leverage the island’s unique market opportunities while also supporting global ventures that align with their mission​.

Senovo, founded in 2011 and headquartered in Munich, Germany, is an early-stage venture capital firm specializing in B2B SaaS investments. The firm primarily focuses on investing in European startups that offer solutions for digitalizing medium and large enterprises, with particular emphasis on process optimization, industry 4.0, and data-enabled solutions. Senovo has a robust portfolio, which includes notable companies such as MANTA, a unified data lineage platform; IP Fabric, which provides network assurance solutions; and quantilope, an insights automation platform. The firm supports its portfolio companies with strategic guidance in scaling operations, optimizing sales models, and expanding internationally. Senovo typically invests in seed and Series A rounds, with initial investments ranging from €1 to €5 million. Key team members include Dr. Alexander Buchberger, Markus Grundmann, and Frederick Mallinckrodt, who bring extensive experience and industry knowledge to their investment approach. Senovo has been instrumental in helping its portfolio companies achieve significant milestones, including successful financing rounds and international growth.

Sentiero Ventures is a Dallas-based venture capital firm that focuses on early-stage investments in AI-enabled software companies. Founded by David Evans, Jon Eberly, and Kishore Khandavalli, the firm targets startups that are harnessing the power of artificial intelligence to drive transformative change in various industries. The firm's investment thesis is centered around "knowledge convergence," where human and machine intelligence work together to create innovative business solutions. Sentiero Ventures is particularly interested in B2B SaaS startups that are delivering AI-driven applications across six core areas: process automation, cognitive insights, cognitive engagement, data collection, AI tools, and generative AI. The fund looks for companies that have a fully developed product and have demonstrated some level of market viability through completed pilots or initial revenue. The firm’s geographic focus is primarily on U.S.-based companies, with a strong preference for those in Texas, although they are open to investments across North America. Sentiero Ventures typically invests in industries where its partners have direct experience, including business services, healthcare IT, financial services, and real estate. The firm aims to be a strategic partner, providing not just capital but also the extensive entrepreneurial and operational expertise of its founding team to help startups scale and succeed.

Serena Capital, founded in 2008 and based in Paris, is a leading European venture capital firm focused on early-stage investments in innovative and ambitious technology companies. The firm has a diversified portfolio across sectors such as AI and data, fintech, healthtech, and consumer technology. Notable investments include iBanFirst, a fintech company providing international payment services; SanteVet, a leading pet health insurance provider; and Sequans Communications, a developer of semiconductor solutions for 4G and 5G networks. Serena Capital has also seen several successful exits, such as the acquisition of Evaneos by PSA Group and the public listing of Talend on the NASDAQ​ ​. The firm emphasizes active support for its portfolio companies through its extensive network and the Serena Squad, a community of C-level executives that offers mentorship and strategic guidance. Serena Capital aims to foster growth and innovation by partnering with entrepreneurs from the seed stage through series B​.

Serena Ventures, founded in 2014 by Serena Williams, is a venture capital firm that emphasizes investing in startups led by women and underrepresented founders. The firm, headquartered in Washington, D.C., has made over 96 investments across various sectors including fintech, e-commerce, health, and education technology. Notable investments include MasterClass, a streaming platform offering classes from industry leaders, and Tonal, a smart home gym company. Serena Ventures has also backed Impossible Foods, known for its plant-based meat substitutes, and Noom, a health app focused on behavior change for better wellness outcomes. The firm's portfolio highlights its commitment to diversity, with 53% of companies founded by women and 47% by Black founders. Serena Ventures recently raised $111 million to further support its mission, investing in startups such as Esusu, a fintech company helping renters build credit, and Parfait, an AI-powered wig customization platform. The firm continues to champion innovation and diversity in the startup ecosystem, leveraging Serena Williams' extensive network and influence to empower founders to change the world​.

Serra Ventures is a venture capital firm specializing in early-stage growth companies, with a particular emphasis on deep technology that addresses industry-specific problems. Founded to support innovation in the Midwest, the firm has since expanded its focus to include various regions across the U.S. and selected international markets. Serra Ventures has invested in over 100 companies, collaborating with more than 125 other venture capital firms. The firm primarily invests in sectors like AgTech and FoodTech, demonstrating a strong commitment to supporting companies that achieve product-market fit and exhibit strong revenue growth. Serra Ventures recently partnered with Grondex International to create the Serra-Grondex Ag & Food Tech Fund II, aimed at fostering regenerative solutions in the agriculture and food sectors. Serra Ventures is headquartered in Champaign, Illinois, with additional offices in San Diego, Chicago, and Park City. The managing partners, including Tim Hoerr, Dennis Beard, and Rob Schultz, bring extensive experience as former venture-backed CEOs, providing valuable insights and support to their portfolio companies.\

Service Provider Capital, founded in 2014 and based in Golden, Colorado, specializes in co-investing in seed and Series A deals led by institutional venture funds. The firm is known for making the investment process seamless by not negotiating terms or seeking board seats, and covering their own legal fees, ensuring a straightforward partnership for startups. Service Provider Capital has made over 462 investments across diverse sectors including artificial intelligence, machine learning, blockchain, cybersecurity, fintech, health, and more. Some of their notable exits include companies like Owlet Baby Care, BacklotCars, and Simplus. Their portfolio also features companies such as MagicSchool, Trace, and Backstitch, highlighting their involvement in educational software, business productivity tools, and media services. The firm’s approach involves leveraging their extensive LP and CEO networks to provide startups with potential investor connections, strategic partners, and customer introductions, thereby significantly enhancing the startups' reach and growth opportunities. This network-centric strategy aligns with their goal of supporting the success of their portfolio companies without imposing additional operational burdens. Key team members include co-founders Jody Shepherd and Noah Pittard, and Managing Directors Edward Hill and Galen Mason, who bring a wealth of experience and expertise to the firm. This leadership is instrumental in driving Service Provider Capital's mission to support and scale innovative startups across various industries.

Seven Seven Six is an early-stage venture capital firm founded in 2020 by Alexis Ohanian, based in Jupiter, Florida. The firm focuses on investments across various sectors, including technology, fintech, and healthcare. With nearly $1 billion in assets under management, Seven Seven Six utilizes a unique operating system called Cerebro to enhance portfolio monitoring and support. The firm's notable investments include companies like Helium, a provider of hardware mining solutions for cryptocurrency; Ro, a digital health platform; and Yuga Labs, known for its marketplace for games and digital collectibles. Recent investments in 2024 include Elektra Health, a health tech company, and Interlune, an aerospace, maritime, and defense company​. Seven Seven Six has achieved several successful exits, such as Proof Holdings and Kairos, and supports a diverse range of innovative startups with the potential to become industry leaders.

Seventure Partners, established in 1997, is one of Europe's leading venture capital firms, managing over €1 billion in assets. The firm primarily invests in two main sectors: Life Sciences, with a focus on health tech, biotech, microbiome, and digital health, and Digital Technologies, concentrating on fintech and insurtech. Seventure’s investment strategy involves rigorous but collegial processes, emphasizing strong relationships with management teams. The firm typically invests from Seed to Series B stages, with investment sizes ranging from €1.5 million to €15 million per round, and up to €20 million per company. They are often the lead investor and actively support portfolio companies through board representation and strategic guidance​. Headquartered in Paris, Seventure has additional offices in Munich, London, Geneva, and Basel. The team, comprising over 25 employees including 15 investors, works closely with entrepreneurs to help them achieve leadership positions in their respective fields​​. Seventure is also a pioneer in microbiome investments, having launched the world’s first dedicated microbiome fund. Their Health for Life Capital™ funds support companies revolutionizing healthcare through research in nutrition, digital health, and foodtech.

SeventySix Capital is a leading venture capital firm that focuses on investing in sports technology, esports, and sports betting startups. Founded by Wayne Kimmel, SeventySix Capital aims to support innovative companies that are transforming the sports industry through technology and data. The firm provides not only capital but also strategic guidance and extensive industry connections to help entrepreneurs succeed. The firm has a diverse portfolio, including companies such as VSiN, Nerd Street, and ShotTracker, which are leaders in their respective fields. SeventySix Capital's investment approach is comprehensive, involving hands-on support in areas like business development, marketing, operations, and public relations​. SeventySix Capital also operates the Athlete Venture Group, which enables professional athletes to invest in and collaborate with startups. This initiative bridges the gap between athletes and the entrepreneurial ecosystem, offering athletes opportunities to leverage their capital and social influence in the tech sector. In addition to its venture investments, SeventySix Capital has launched the Sports Advisory venture, providing advisory services to sports executives, leagues, and organizations. This venture is led by industry veteran Dan Bravato and focuses on esports, sports betting, media, and social responsibility.

7x Ventures is a venture capital firm focused on investing in early-stage technology companies with high growth potential. The firm, based in San Francisco, typically invests in sectors such as AI, fintech, enterprise software, and consumer internet. They are known for their strategic approach to investing, offering not just capital but also significant operational and strategic support to their portfolio companies. 7x Ventures has a notable portfolio, including investments in companies like Uber and Roku, which underscores their knack for identifying and supporting high-potential startups that have gone on to achieve substantial market success. The firm's investment strategy involves making sizeable investments that range from $8 million to $15 million, ensuring that they can provide the necessary resources for their portfolio companies to scale effectively. With a track record of successful exits, 7x Ventures has demonstrated its ability to support companies through various growth stages and eventually to profitable exits, adding significant value both to the companies they invest in and to their investors. This blend of strategic support and financial backing has positioned 7x Ventures as a key player in the venture capital landscape.

SFC Capital is a leader in early-stage investment in the UK, particularly known for its Seed Enterprise Investment Scheme (SEIS) and Enterprise Investment Scheme (EIS) funds. Established in 2012, SFC has developed a unique co-investment model that combines direct angel investments with diversified portfolio management. This approach enables investors to back innovative startups while benefiting from substantial tax relief under SEIS and EIS, making it particularly attractive to high-net-worth individuals. The fund focuses on sectors ranging from tech and SaaS to consumer goods, supporting a wide range of high-growth industries. SFC Capital typically invests in 15-20 companies per SEIS fund and has been recognized as one of the most active seed investors in Europe, with an impressive portfolio that includes over 100 investments. Their hands-on approach ensures that startups receive not only financial backing but also strategic support through mentoring and connections within the broader SFC network. The team is led by Stephen Page, an entrepreneur turned investor, with a strong supporting cast including COO Angelika Burawska and CIO Joseph Zipfel. They focus on early-stage companies, often from seed to pre-Series A, and are deeply integrated with the UK startup ecosystem, collaborating with Innovate UK and the British Business Bank. Startups looking for funding can expect rigorous due diligence, with SFC looking for clear market potential and strong leadership. They are open to a wide range of industries and encourage founders to reach out directly for investment opportunities.

Sfermion is a Chicago-based venture capital firm that focuses on the growing NFT and metaverse ecosystem. Founded in 2019 by Andrew Steinwold, Sfermion is dedicated to accelerating the emergence of an open metaverse by investing in companies, platforms, and technologies within the NFT space. The firm employs a multi-strategy approach, which includes investments in early-stage venture equity, tokens, and direct NFTs, making it a pioneer in this evolving sector. Sfermion has built an impressive portfolio with over 145 investments across various segments, including NFT platforms like OpenSea and SuperRare, gaming ventures like Yield Guild Games and Nifty Island, and metaverse infrastructure companies such as Everyrealm and Immutable X. The firm has successfully raised $100 million to further expand its reach, counting major backers like Andreessen Horowitz and the Winklevoss twins among its investors. Sfermion aims to be a key player in shaping the digital future by supporting creators and entrepreneurs who are building the foundational layers of the immersive internet. The firm is particularly focused on decentralization and user empowerment within the metaverse, believing that NFTs are critical to unlocking digital ownership and new forms of value creation.

SGH Capital, founded in 2014 and headquartered in Luxembourg, is a venture capital firm that invests in early and mid-stage disruptive technology companies across the US and Western Europe. With over 130 investments, SGH Capital has a strong track record of supporting innovative startups in various sectors, including fintech, healthcare, and enterprise software. Notable investments include Honey, acquired by PayPal in 2019; Bakkt, which went public in 2021; and Guardant Health, which had its IPO in 2018. Other significant portfolio companies are Carta, a platform for equity management, and Talkdesk, a customer service software provider. SGH Capital has also seen successful exits from companies like Onfleet, an advanced logistics platform, and Eight Sleep, a health and wellness tech company. SGH Capital is known for its hands-on approach, providing strategic guidance and leveraging a vast network to help portfolio companies scale and achieve significant milestones. The firm has contributed to the growth of more than 10 unicorns and has been involved in over five IPOs.

SGInnovate, established in 2016 and based in Singapore, focuses on early-stage investments in deep tech startups that aim to solve complex global challenges. Their portfolio spans various sectors, including AI, medtech, biotech, and quantum computing. Notable investments include Biofourmis, a health analytics company using AI; Affable.ai, an AI-enabled influencer marketing platform; and Ayar Labs, which develops photonic chiplets for high-performance computing. SGInnovate emphasizes not just financial investment but also active partnership and support through talent development and community networks. They collaborate with universities, polytechnics, and other ecosystem players to drive innovation and growth in the deep tech sector. The leadership team, led by CEO Lim Jui, includes professionals with extensive experience in investments and technology. SGInnovate has made 196 investments and successfully exited 54 companies, indicating a strong track record in nurturing and scaling deep tech startups. For entrepreneurs, SGInnovate offers various support mechanisms, including talent matching, community events, and collaboration opportunities to help startups scale and succeed in the global market.

Shell Ventures is the venture capital arm of Shell, dedicated to investing in startups and scale-ups that align with the company’s energy transition goals. Launched to foster innovation, Shell Ventures targets companies developing breakthrough technologies in areas such as renewable energy, energy storage, mobility, and carbon reduction. The venture arm plays a pivotal role in Shell’s broader strategy to diversify its portfolio beyond fossil fuels, aiming to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. Shell Ventures operates globally, investing in early to late-stage startups. Its focus is on industries that can transform the energy landscape, including electric vehicle (EV) charging networks, hydrogen production, advanced biofuels, and carbon capture technologies. By backing these innovations, Shell Ventures contributes to Shell’s goal of becoming a leader in the clean energy sector. It has already made significant investments in companies like Sungevity (solar energy), Ample (EV battery swapping), and Limejump (energy tech for renewables). Shell Ventures doesn’t just provide capital; it offers strategic support, leveraging Shell’s vast industry expertise and global network. This allows portfolio companies to access markets, scale faster, and integrate more effectively within the energy ecosystem. The firm often co-invests with other venture funds, facilitating partnerships that foster innovation. By promoting cleaner energy solutions, Shell Ventures is crucial to Shell's efforts to transition towards a more sustainable energy future.

Sherpa Capital Group, established in 2013 by Shervin Pishevar and Scott Stanford, is a venture capital and private equity firm known for backing transformative early- and mid-stage tech companies with high growth potential. Sherpa’s investment philosophy centers on identifying companies that challenge industry norms, scaling them globally with strategic support. The firm has a track record of high-impact investments in notable startups like Uber, which redefined urban mobility, and PillPack, a digital pharmacy later acquired by Amazon. Other key investments include Munchery and Cargomatic, further emphasizing Sherpa’s focus on disruptive consumer technologies and logistics. With assets under management exceeding $650 million, Sherpa Capital has raised funds across Sherpa Ventures I, II, and Sherpa Everest Fund. Each fund focuses on sectors with high scalability, such as healthcare, logistics, and tech-enabled consumer services. Additionally, Sherpa Foundry, a consulting subsidiary, extends Sherpa’s influence by offering founders in-depth market knowledge and critical industry connections. This hands-on approach enables portfolio companies to navigate regulatory challenges, expand networks, and secure further funding. Sherpa's investments align with Pishevar’s experience as an early investor in Silicon Valley giants, as well as Stanford’s background in global finance, positioning Sherpa to identify and back high-potential technology disruptors effectively. Despite occasional controversy, such as leadership transitions and legal disputes, Sherpa remains active in the VC landscape, leveraging Pishevar and Stanford’s expertise to build a high-profile portfolio that emphasizes innovation and consumer impact. The firm’s strategic model of support and access to seasoned insights makes it a competitive force in venture capital​.

SHIFT Invest is a Dutch venture capital fund focused on creating positive environmental impact through strategic investments in early-stage companies. Founded in 2009, SHIFT Invest supports innovative startups in sectors such as agro-food, energy, green industries, and sustainable mobility and logistics. The firm is known for its commitment to sustainability and its goal of combating climate change, biodiversity loss, and resource depletion. Notable investments by SHIFT Invest include Protix, a company producing insect-based proteins and fats; ViriCiti, an electric fleet management provider; and Pieter Pot, a zero-waste online grocery service. The fund also backs innovative companies like Vertoro, which develops bio-based chemicals, and OneThird, which focuses on reducing food waste through advanced technology. With a fund size of €110 million, SHIFT Invest partners with major organizations such as KLM, NS, and Royal Schiphol Group to accelerate the adoption of sustainable solutions in mobility and logistics. Their investment strategy emphasizes not only financial returns but also significant environmental impact, guided by the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Shima Capital is an early-stage venture capital firm founded in 2021 by Yida Gao. Based in San Francisco, Shima Capital focuses on investing in disruptive blockchain and Web3 companies. The firm operates with a hands-on approach, providing not just capital but also strategic guidance, technical support, and community building to its portfolio companies. Shima Capital's inaugural fund, Shima Capital Fund I, raised $200 million, with notable investors including Bill Ackman, Dragonfly Capital, and Animoca Brands. The fund invests in the earliest stages of blockchain startups, typically deploying between $500,000 and $2,000,000 per investment. Key areas of focus include decentralized finance (DeFi), gaming and metaverse, decentralized infrastructure, and next-generation blockchain technologies like Layer 1/2 solutions and zero-knowledge proofs. The firm distinguishes itself by offering extensive support to its portfolio companies, helping with talent acquisition, technical research, and development, as well as narrative amplification. Shima Capital's team comprises experienced investors and operators, including Carl Hua, Alex Lin, and Chris Adams, who bring significant expertise from top technology and venture firms.