Food & Beverage VC Funds

Empire State Development (ESD) is New York State's chief economic development agency, focusing on promoting business growth, job creation, and enhancing the state’s overall economy. Through various programs and initiatives, ESD supports businesses of all sizes and industries, providing financial incentives, grants, loans, and other resources to foster economic development across the state. One of ESD's flagship programs is the "FAST NY" initiative, which aims to create shovel-ready sites for industrial development, providing substantial grants to improve infrastructure like transportation, utilities, and site development. This program has committed over $175 million to support over 2,700 acres of industrial property. ESD is also a major player in fostering innovation through investments in life sciences and biotech. For instance, the expansion of Harlem Biospace, supported by a $1.5 million ESD grant, exemplifies its role in nurturing New York’s biotech ecosystem by providing advanced facilities for startups and fostering collaboration between businesses and academic institutions like Columbia University. Overall, ESD’s initiatives are focused on strategic job creation, attracting innovative industries, and revitalizing communities, helping to position New York as a competitive environment for both startups and established businesses.

Newark Venture Partners is a seed-stage venture capital firm based in Newark, New Jersey, with a strong focus on B2B software companies. Founded in 2015, NVP aims to support innovative startups by providing seed funding and operational support to foster growth and success. The firm has raised approximately $90 million for its second fund, doubling the size of its first fund. NVP's investment strategy revolves around healthcare, fintech, and supply chain sectors, seeking startups that offer transformative solutions in these high-stakes industries. The firm’s portfolio includes notable companies like Podsights, Optimal Dynamics, and Handspring Health, highlighting their commitment to driving innovation in enterprise software. The team at NVP is led by Managing Partners Tom Wisniewski, Dan Borok, and Vaughn Crowe, who bring extensive experience in venture capital and entrepreneurship. The firm is known for its active involvement in the Newark community, including partnerships with organizations like the Boys and Girls Club of Newark and Braven, which support local talent and promote educational and employment opportunities.

Newfund Capital, founded in 2008, is an entrepreneurial venture capital firm with a strong presence in both Paris and Silicon Valley. With $300 million in assets under management, Newfund focuses on seed-stage startups driving global change. Notable investments include Aircall, Fairmoney, and In2Bones, showcasing their diverse and impactful portfolio. The firm invests primarily in technology, precision medicine, personalized treatment, and brain tech sectors. They emphasize early-stage investments, aiming to support startups from the seed stage through international expansion, particularly in France and North America. Newfund's strategy involves quick decision-making, often providing term sheets within three weeks. They seek entrepreneurs with a global mindset and provide significant value beyond capital, including scaling opportunities, networking, and strategic support. The average check size varies but is tailored to meet the needs of each startup, with Newfund often leading the investment rounds. The team includes key members like Henri Deshays and Patrick Malka, who bring extensive entrepreneurial and investment experience. The team is split between their Paris and Palo Alto offices, allowing them to maintain a strong presence in both Europe and the U.S. For startups looking to scale rapidly with a partner who understands the entrepreneurial journey, Newfund Capital offers a compelling blend of expertise, resources, and strategic guidance.

Newion is a pan-European early-stage venture capital firm based in Amsterdam, specializing exclusively in business software. Since its founding in 2000, Newion has invested in over 60 startups, helping companies like Collibra, Deliverect, and Foleon emerge as market leaders in their sectors. Their primary focus is on innovative B2B software companies within the Benelux, Nordics, and Germany. Newion's investment strategy involves participating in seed rounds and Series A funding, providing both capital and hands-on support to help startups scale. The firm manages a total of €300 million in assets across several funds, with their latest, Newion IV, launching with an initial closing of €130 million. The Newion team includes seasoned professionals such as Patrick Polak and Frank Claassen, who bring extensive experience in venture capital and corporate finance. Their approach is characterized by a no-nonsense mentality and a deep commitment to helping their portfolio companies achieve significant growth and market leadership.

NewTribe Capital is a Dubai-based venture capital firm primarily investing in early-stage Web3, blockchain, and AI startups. With a portfolio exceeding 200 projects globally, including sectors like DeFi, gaming, infrastructure, and NFTs, NewTribe actively fosters innovation in the digital space. Some notable investments include Cookie3 and KIP, with an average check size around $200,000. The firm focuses on building long-term partnerships, often providing advisory services such as market-making, growth hacking, and smart contract auditing, to ensure the success of its portfolio companies​. Geographically, NewTribe targets the MENA region, but also extends investments into Europe, Asia, and beyond. Its strategy emphasizes infrastructure development that bridges Web2 and Web3, alongside token-based and equity investments. Notably, NewTribe backs projects aligning with Dubai’s Web3 initiatives, offering support through accelerator programs and partnerships. Led by partners such as Dhaval Parikh and Juliet Su, NewTribe’s team combines technical expertise with deep industry connections. For startups seeking funding, NewTribe looks for founders with strong visions in blockchain or AI, particularly those aiming to create large-scale digital infrastructure.

Next 10 Ventures, founded in 2018 by former YouTube executive Ben Grubbs, is a venture firm dedicated to the global creator economy. Headquartered in Los Angeles and Singapore, the firm focuses on early-stage investments and incubation of businesses within the digital content space. With a $50 million fund, Next 10 Ventures supports startups that offer tools and services for content creators, such as GoMeta, which helps design interactive experiences, and SuperBam, a digital rights management firm. The firm’s average investments range from $250,000 to $500,000. Next 10 Ventures specializes in creator-driven businesses in areas like education, entertainment, and entrepreneurial ventures. Their investment strategy targets creators looking for long-term growth, avoiding short-term "money-grab" opportunities. The firm also provides substantial operational support, including crafting business models for creators, many of whom lack formal plans. The team, including hires like Lauren Schnipper, formerly of Facebook, is spread across key creative hubs like Los Angeles and Singapore, with plans to scale in regions with high creator activity. The firm looks for creators who fit into categories such as artists, entrepreneurs, and educators, while prioritizing sustainability and community impact​.

Next Coast Ventures, established in 2015 and headquartered in Austin, Texas, focuses on investing in high-growth startups located outside traditional coastal tech hubs. The firm targets early-stage investments, particularly in emerging platforms, enterprise solutions, and consumer-focused businesses. Notable companies in their portfolio include Everly Health, Enboarder, and Diligent Robotics, reflecting their commitment to innovative and transformative technologies. Next Coast Ventures employs a thematic research approach, identifying key investment themes rather than focusing on specific sectors. This allows them to partner with "glass-eating" entrepreneurs—founders who are resilient and driven to build category-defining companies. Their investment strategy is characterized by active involvement, with partners often taking board seats and providing strategic guidance to help portfolio companies scale rapidly. The firm has made 159 investments to date and has successfully exited several companies, including Stoplight and AlertMedia. Founders Michael Smerklo and Thomas Ball lead a team of experienced investors who bring deep industry knowledge and a hands-on approach to their portfolio companies. Startups seeking to partner with Next Coast Ventures should demonstrate strong growth potential and alignment with the firm’s thematic investment focus. The firm’s recent investments, such as in Diligent Robotics and Everly Health, showcase their interest in companies that leverage technology to solve significant problems in healthcare, enterprise software, and consumer markets​.

Credit Suisse Entrepreneur Capital Ltd., established in 2010, is the venture capital arm of Credit Suisse based in Zurich, Switzerland. The firm focuses on investing in innovative small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and startups across various sectors, including robotics, automation, medtech, and fintech. To date, Credit Suisse Entrepreneur Capital has invested around CHF 130 million in over 50 companies, and recently expanded its fund by an additional CHF 70 million, bringing the total to CHF 200 million. Notable investments from Credit Suisse Entrepreneur Capital include Perspective Robotics (d.b.a. Fotokite), a Zurich-based startup specializing in tethered drones that improve the safety and efficiency of public safety operations, and Ava, a company in the monitoring equipment sector. These investments highlight the firm’s commitment to supporting high-potential technologies and innovative business models. Credit Suisse's venture capital efforts are part of a broader strategy to support Switzerland's entrepreneurial ecosystem, ensuring the country remains a global leader in innovation and business. For more information about their investments and strategic approach, you can visit their official website.

Next Play Ventures is a venture capital firm founded in 2020 by Jeff Weiner, the former CEO of LinkedIn, with a mission to coach and invest in entrepreneurial leaders building world-class, purpose-driven companies. Weiner is joined by Managing Director Brian Rumao, his former chief of staff. The firm takes a unique approach by blending investment with coaching, helping founders not only grow their businesses but also develop strong leadership skills rooted in compassion and values. The firm’s philosophy centers on the idea that doing well and doing good are not mutually exclusive. Next Play Ventures focuses on early-stage investments, primarily in industries like SaaS, fintech, healthtech, education, and productivity software. Notable portfolio companies include Figma, Brex, Scale, and Common Room. The firm also emphasizes social impact, with a commitment to closing the opportunity gap for underserved communities through initiatives like the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Peninsula and The Compassion Project. The name "Next Play" is inspired by legendary basketball coach Mike Krzyzewski’s philosophy of focusing on the next move, whether in victory or defeat. This reflects Next Play’s commitment to helping founders continually move forward, learning from both successes and failures. By providing a blend of capital and mentorship, Next Play Ventures aims to cultivate resilient, impactful companies and leaders for the long term.

NextView Ventures is a venture capital firm specializing in seed-stage investments, focusing on companies that use technology to drive the "Everyday Economy." This includes sectors where people spend significant time, money, and attention. The firm was established in 2011 and operates out of Boston and New York City, with a commitment to backing companies from the concept stage. Notable investments by NextView Ventures include companies such as ThredUp, WHOOP, Attentive, Grove Collaborative, and Skillz. ThredUp, an online fashion resale platform, went public on NASDAQ in 2021. WHOOP, a wearable fitness tracker, has become a significant player in the market, valued at over $3.6 billion. Attentive, an SMS marketing platform, serves over 4,000 e-commerce customers and significantly drives their revenue. NextView Ventures recently closed its fourth fund at $100 million, continuing its high-conviction, hands-on seed strategy. The firm targets the full seed spectrum, from pre-launch and pre-seed companies to those starting to scale, offering initial investments ranging from $400K to $4M​.

NIVL (Noble Ventures Investment Limited) is a venture capital firm based in the United Kingdom, focusing on early-stage investments across multiple sectors, particularly enterprise applications and educational technology (EdTech). Founded in 2020, NIVL has built a portfolio of notable investments including MarcoPolo Learning, an app-based educational games platform for kids, and Fundamental Surgery, an AI-based platform for surgical simulation using VR and haptics. Other significant investments include OnePulse, a cloud-based platform offering survey solutions, and Freemarket, which provides foreign currency exchange services. NIVL has also invested in Boclips, an online learning management provider for schools and universities, and BBC Maestro, an online platform offering expert-tutored courses. NIVL's investment strategy typically involves making initial investments around $1 million at the Seed or Series A stage, focusing on companies with proven product-market fit and significant growth potential. The firm collaborates with other investors such as Blackfinch Ventures and Triple Point to support its portfolio companies. Overall, NIVL aims to foster innovation and growth in the technology and education sectors by providing both financial support and strategic guidance to early-stage startups.

Nexus Venture Partners, established in 2006, is a venture capital firm headquartered in Menlo Park, California. The firm focuses on early-stage investments, typically participating in seed and Series A rounds, and is particularly active in the US and India. Nexus has over $2.6 billion in assets under management and invests in sectors such as enterprise software, digital consumer businesses, and technology-driven services. Nexus Venture Partners has an impressive portfolio that includes notable companies like Postman, Delhivery, Druva, and Unacademy. The firm has had significant exits, with companies like Clover Health, Delhivery, and Housing.com achieving substantial growth and market impact. Nexus's investment strategy emphasizes strong partnerships with founders, providing them with extensive support throughout their entrepreneurial journey. The team at Nexus comprises experienced professionals, including co-founders Suvir Sujan, Naren Gupta, and Sandeep Singhal, who bring deep industry expertise and strategic insights to their investments. Nexus Venture Partners continues to be a key player in the venture capital landscape, fostering innovation and scaling successful companies across its target markets​.

NFX, founded in 2015 and headquartered in San Francisco, is a venture capital firm that specializes in early-stage investments. The firm is renowned for its focus on network effects, which it believes are crucial for building market-transforming companies. NFX invests in a diverse range of sectors, including AI, biotech, fintech, gaming, enterprise software, marketplaces, and crypto, with a particular focus on Silicon Valley and Israel. Notable investments by NFX include companies like DoorDash, Lyft, Patreon, and Houseparty. The firm has made a total of 577 investments and has seen significant exits such as Similarweb and CircleUp. NFX's unique approach involves deeply understanding and leveraging network effects, which it views as essential for startups to compete effectively in today's market​​. The firm was co-founded by James Currier, Pete Flint, Gigi Levy-Weiss, and Stan Chudnovsky, who bring extensive entrepreneurial and investment experience. NFX supports its portfolio companies through The Guild, an active community of over 200 founders who share KPIs, insights, and access to foster mutual growth and success​. NFX aims to transform how true innovators are funded, providing not just capital but also strategic guidance to help startups build sustainable and disruptive businesses​.

Nimble Ventures, founded in 2012, is a venture capital firm based in San Francisco, California. The firm focuses on early-stage investments, primarily targeting sectors such as technology, healthcare, biotech, fintech, consumer tech, and blockchain. Nimble Ventures invests globally, with notable investments in companies based in the United States and Israel. Prominent companies in their portfolio include Umbra, a developer of SAR micro-satellites for imagery services, and Terradepth, which provides data collection technology for marine tracking systems. Both companies have shown significant growth and innovation within their respective fields. Nimble Ventures typically invests in Seed and Series A stages, supporting startups with high growth potential and innovative solutions. The firm's investment strategy emphasizes identifying and nurturing early-stage companies that have the potential to transform industries through cutting-edge technology and novel approaches. For startups looking to engage with Nimble Ventures, it is important to demonstrate strong technological capabilities and a clear path to market leadership. The firm values innovative solutions that address substantial market needs and have the potential for significant impact. Key team members include John Burbank, a notable investor with a background in managing substantial venture funds, and Nathan Mee, who brings extensive experience in portfolio management and venture capital investments​.

Nissay Capital, a venture capital firm based in Tokyo and wholly owned by Nippon Life Insurance Company, has a rich history of investments across various stages and sectors. With over 1,200 unlisted companies and 226 IPOs since its inception in 1991, the firm is a significant player in Japan's venture capital landscape. Notable investments include Heartseed, a biotech company, SkyDisc, and LaFabric. They focus on early to growth-stage businesses, with investments ranging from $4M to $740M. Nissay Capital's strategy emphasizes leveraging the vast network of Nippon Life Insurance to support portfolio companies, providing extensive guidance on management strategies and capital policies. They prefer investing in innovative startups that align with their long-term vision of contributing to society, particularly in technology and healthcare sectors. The firm typically co-invests with other major players like Mitsubishi UFJ Capital and CyberAgent Capital, fostering a collaborative investment environment. Key team members include Eiji Arima, the President and CEO, who plays a pivotal role in steering the firm's strategic direction. Nissay Capital prefers entrepreneurs to approach them through well-researched pitches that clearly articulate the market opportunity and technological innovation. Active and involved, they are seen as a hands-on investor committed to the growth and success of their investees

NGP Capital, founded in 2005, is a venture capital firm based in Palo Alto, California. The firm has a significant global presence with offices in Berlin, Helsinki, and Geneva, and focuses on early growth investments in B2B sectors such as cybersecurity, industrial technology, deep tech, robotics, supply chain, and data infrastructure. NGP Capital typically invests $10-15 million in the first round, aiming for a 10-15% ownership stake and an active role in their portfolio companies. The firm manages over $1.6 billion in assets and uses a proprietary AI-powered platform, "Q," to identify and evaluate investment opportunities globally. This system scans and ranks more than 2 million companies, helping NGP make data-driven investment decisions. NGP Capital has invested in more than 100 companies, with notable exits including UC Mobile, acquired by Alibaba for $3.8 billion, and Ganji, acquired by 58.com for $3.6 billion. Other significant portfolio companies include PubMatic, Deliveroo, and Moovit. Their investments are geographically diverse, with 27% in Europe, 38% in the US, and 35% in Asia. The firm continues to leverage its partnership with Nokia, focusing on strategic investments that align with Nokia's innovation framework around 5G and related technologies. This partnership allows NGP Capital to combine financial discipline with technological insights, driving growth and strategic value in their portfolio.

Nomad Ventures is an early-stage VC firm based in Los Angeles, with a strong focus on high-growth, network-effect businesses. Their sector-agnostic approach includes fintech, consumer tech, vertical SaaS, and marketplaces, backing startups that drive new ways for people to earn money online. With notable investments in companies like Cameo and Wheels, Nomad Ventures has a track record of identifying disruptive, scalable business models. The fund primarily targets pre-seed and seed-stage investments, aiming to partner with founders who exhibit grit and a bold vision for the future. They seek startups with operational intensity and scalable distribution advantages. While geographically anchored in the U.S., particularly cities like Los Angeles, New York, Austin, and Miami, they are open to the growing decentralization of startup ecosystems across the country. Led by Chris Taylor, James Mumma, and Marco McCottry—all experienced operators who played key roles at Uber, Bird, and Opendoor—the team brings hands-on expertise and operational guidance to their portfolio companies. They actively co-invest with top-tier VCs like Andreessen Horowitz, often helping lead rounds with average check sizes ranging from $250K to $1M. Nomad is known for being approachable and looking for founders who build defensible businesses with strong marketplace dynamics. Nomad Ventures has raised over $100M and frequently scouts startups through industry relationships and tech scene connections, with a preference for companies demonstrating early, clear traction.

NOMO Ventures is a venture capital firm specializing in early-stage investments in transformative technology companies. With over $100 million in assets under management, NOMO Ventures has a diverse portfolio that includes prominent companies such as Expensify, Nest, MeUndies, Simulate, Better Mortgage, Ponto, Batch, and Railz​ (HealthTech Alpha)​​ (Unicorn Nest)​. Their investment strategy focuses on early-stage ventures, often co-investing with other notable funds like Global Founders Capital and Pioneer Fund. NOMO Ventures tends to back companies that offer innovative solutions and have the potential for significant market impact. They have made investments in a variety of sectors, including health tech, fintech, and consumer products. NOMO Ventures is based in San Francisco and is actively seeking new investments, typically participating in funding rounds ranging from $2 million to $20 million. They have a track record of investing in startups that achieve high growth and profitability. For instance, recent investments include Great Question, a customer research platform, and Pry Financials, which simplifies startup finances​. Key team members include experienced venture investors who provide hands-on support and strategic guidance to their portfolio companies. NOMO Ventures looks for startups with strong, innovative business models and clear market potential. Startups interested in securing investment from NOMO Ventures should prepare a direct and concise pitch that highlights scalability and strategic fit with NOMO's investment focus​.

NFT Ventures, established in 2014 and based in Stockholm, is a prominent venture capital firm specializing in fintech investments. The firm has carved out a niche within the Nordic fintech ecosystem, backing startups that are transforming the financial industry through innovative technologies. NFT Ventures focuses on a broad range of fintech verticals, including regtech, insurtech, and more, investing in companies that have significant scalability and growth potential. NFT Ventures is an active investor, often taking board seats to provide strategic guidance and operational support to its portfolio companies. The firm has built a diverse portfolio of around 40 companies, including notable names like Gimi, a financial education app for children, and Lunar, a modern digital bank. Their approach extends beyond mere financial investment; they leverage their extensive network and deep industry expertise to help their portfolio companies succeed. With a strong presence in Northern Europe, NFT Ventures is well-positioned to continue driving fintech innovation across the region.

Nordic Makers, established in 2016, is an early-stage investment firm founded by a group of experienced angel investors from the Nordic region. The firm focuses on seed and early-stage investments, primarily in technology-driven startups across the Nordics and Europe. Their investment philosophy centers on providing founder-friendly terms and leveraging their extensive network to support entrepreneurial growth. Notable investments by Nordic Makers include Labster, a leading provider of virtual science labs; Seaborg Technologies, which is developing sustainable nuclear reactor technology; and NextMind, which creates brain-sensing wearable devices for real-time device control. Other significant investments include Willa Pay, Helix Nano, LetsBuild, Singa, and Climateview​. The firm’s founding partners, such as Klaus Nyengaard, Esben Gadsbøll, and Alexander Aghassipour, bring a wealth of experience from successful ventures like Just Eat, WhiteAway, and Zendesk. They focus on fostering cross-border investments and integrating the Nordic and Baltic startup ecosystems.

NordicNinja VC is a leading venture capital fund with a €200 million second fund targeting climate tech and deep tech startups across Northern Europe, the UK, and the Benelux. Founded in 2019, the firm is a joint venture backed by Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC), Honda, Omron, and European investors like BaltCap and Swedbank. NordicNinja invests between €2.5 to €10 million in Series A and B rounds, supporting founders addressing global challenges in sustainability, digitalization, and innovative tech solutions. The fund’s portfolio includes high-profile companies like Bolt, Veriff, Einride, and Voi, emphasizing sectors such as electric and autonomous mobility, AI, and immersive digital tools. While around half of NordicNinja’s investments are concentrated in mobility and transportation due to their potential for significant carbon reduction, the firm has also backed companies in sectors like healthcare and digital identity verification, leveraging AI and mixed reality to solve pressing societal problems. Led by managing partners Shinichi Nikkuni, Marek Kiisa, Rainer Sternfeld, and Tomosaku Sohara, the team combines deep expertise in engineering, green energy, and international business. This allows NordicNinja to bridge Japanese and European ecosystems, offering founders access to Japanese corporate networks, enhancing market reach, and supporting scalable, impactful innovation. The fund prioritizes founders with ambitious visions and a readiness to lead in creating a sustainable, tech-driven future, making NordicNinja an ideal partner for startups ready to tackle the world's most critical challenges.

Norrsken VC is a prominent European venture capital firm focused on impact investing, founded in 2017 in Sweden. The firm supports startups that address significant global challenges while aiming for substantial financial returns. Norrsken VC specializes in sectors such as climate tech, energy, biotech, AI, and health tech, ensuring each investment aligns with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)​​. Norrsken VC's portfolio includes high-impact companies like Northvolt, a battery manufacturer; Einride, which develops electric autonomous transport; and 1KOMMA5°, focused on sustainable energy solutions. These companies exemplify Norrsken's commitment to backing startups that positively impact both people and the planet​. The firm recently closed its second fund at €320 million, surpassing its original target of €250 million, making it the largest early-stage generalist impact fund in Europe. This fund is supported by major institutional investors, including Folksam, AP1, and the European Investment Fund (EIF), and aims to empower "force of nature" founders to create impact unicorns​. Norrsken VC's team comprises experienced venture capitalists and industry experts, including General Partners Niklas Adalberth, Tove Larsson, Agate Freimane, and David Frykman. The team is dedicated to finding visionary founders across Europe who share their passion for creating a better future through innovative solutions​.

Northern Gritstone is a venture capital firm established in 2020, focused on commercializing cutting-edge science and technology emerging from the North of England. With headquarters in Manchester and strong ties to the Universities of Manchester, Leeds, and Sheffield, Northern Gritstone primarily invests in early-stage companies that originate from these institutions or are based in the region. The firm manages a substantial fund, recently closing at £312 million, to support startups in sectors like deep technology, life sciences, healthcare, and advanced materials. Northern Gritstone's investment strategy is driven by a philosophy of "profit with purpose," aiming to generate financial returns while also contributing to the economic development of the North of England. Northern Gritstone has already made significant investments in companies such as Optalysys, a photonic chip firm, and AssetCool, which develops advanced coatings for industrial applications. The firm is committed to fostering a tech ecosystem in the region, aspiring to create a "Silicon Valley of the North" by backing visionary companies with strong intellectual property and high growth potential.

Northstar Ventures is a UK-based venture capital firm focused on early-stage investments that create a positive social or environmental impact. With a portfolio that spans tech innovation and social enterprises, the firm emphasizes sectors like climate tech, biotech, and healthy aging. Their notable investments include Newcells Biotech, which develops in vitro organ models for drug testing, and NunaBio, a leader in DNA synthesis technology crucial for personalized medicine and data storage solutions​. Geographically, Northstar Ventures primarily focuses on startups in the North East of England but also supports businesses across the UK. They invest through funds such as the North East Innovation Fund and the Northstar EIS Growth Fund, with typical early-stage investments ranging from £300,000 to £1 million​. Their hands-on approach includes extensive support for founders, particularly in sectors that align with sustainability goals, like Low Carbon Materials, which develops environmentally friendly construction materials. Northstar also backs social impact ventures, such as Coping with Cancer North East, reflecting their commitment to community well-being alongside technological innovation.

Northzone, established in 1996, is a multi-stage venture capital fund investing in companies from Seed to Growth stages across Europe and the US. With a notable portfolio that includes companies like Spotify, Klarna, Trustpilot, and Kahoot!, Northzone has built a reputation for backing category-defining entrepreneurs. In 2022, Northzone raised €1 billion, emphasizing its commitment to supporting innovative startups that can thrive amidst global challenges. The firm’s investment strategy spans various sectors, including fintech, healthtech, SaaS, and consumer technology. Northzone typically writes checks between €1 million and €40 million, allowing them to support companies through multiple stages of growth, from initial funding to pre-IPO. Their approach is characterized by a focus on founders with conviction, a willingness to embrace risk, and a dedication to long-term partnerships. Northzone’s team operates across major cities like New York, London, Stockholm, Amsterdam, and Berlin, reflecting their "glocal" (global and local) mindset. This diverse and international team, comprising 36 members from 16 nationalities, brings a wealth of experience and a strong network to the table. The firm values integrity, results, intellectual curiosity, and strong partnerships, and has consistently championed diversity and inclusion both within their team and across their portfolio. Entrepreneurs interested in partnering with Northzone are encouraged to present bold ideas with substantial market potential. The firm values straightforward communication and prefers to invest in teams capable of navigating and thriving in challenging environments

Norwest Venture Partners (NVP), headquartered in Menlo Park, California, is a prominent venture capital and growth equity investment firm managing over $15.5 billion in capital. Founded in 1961, Norwest has invested in more than 700 companies across various sectors, including enterprise, consumer, and healthcare. Some of their notable investments include companies like Spotify, Adaptive Insights, Udemy, Talkspace, Opendoor, Kendra Scott, and Health Catalyst. These investments highlight Norwest's diversified approach, backing high-impact companies at various stages of growth from early to late-stage. Norwest recently announced the closing of its seventeenth fund, NVP 17, raising $3 billion to continue supporting visionary entrepreneurs. The firm operates globally with offices in Menlo Park, San Francisco, Mumbai, and Tel Aviv, focusing on North America, India, and Israel​. With a strong commitment to their portfolio companies, Norwest offers extensive support through their experienced investment and portfolio services teams, helping businesses navigate growth and scale effectively. This hands-on approach has contributed to their track record of successful exits and sustained growth in their portfolio companies​.

Not Boring Capital, founded by Packy McCormick, is a venture capital firm that emphasizes investing in innovative and transformative startups. Established in 2019 and based in New York City, the firm has made notable investments in various sectors, including fintech, health tech, and blockchain technology. The portfolio includes companies like Footprint, which offers identity and attribute verification solutions, and Disco, a platform for customer management solutions. Other significant investments include Gilded, providing accounting and payment solutions for crypto businesses, and Union54, which focuses on correspondent banking solutions in Zambia. Not Boring Capital typically invests in early-stage ventures, particularly in seed and Series A rounds. Recent investments include Unnatural Products, a biotech firm focused on molecularly targeted therapeutics, and Atomic AI, an AI-based platform for RNA drug discovery. The firm collaborates with prominent co-investors such as Index Ventures, Bessemer Venture Partners, and Andreessen Horowitz to support these startups. By leveraging a robust network and expertise in storytelling, Not Boring Capital aims to help its portfolio companies scale effectively and reach their full potential. The firm’s strategy includes not only financial investment but also strategic guidance and brand building.

Novo Holdings is a premier life sciences investment firm based in Copenhagen, Denmark, with additional offices in Boston, San Francisco, London, and Singapore. The firm is wholly owned by the Novo Nordisk Foundation and manages an extensive portfolio aimed at generating long-term returns while advancing health and sustainability. Novo Holdings focuses on investments across biotechnology, medical technology, and digital health sectors, supporting companies at various stages, from early development to commercial phases. In 2023, the firm deployed DKK 3.6 billion, including significant investments in 4D Molecular, Alentis Therapeutics, and Lexeo Therapeutics. The firm's strategy emphasizes innovation in patient care and strong financial returns. Notably, Novo Holdings operates with an evergreen fund structure, allowing a long-term perspective on its investments. The firm actively engages with portfolio companies, often taking board positions to leverage its vast network and expertise. The investment team, led by Managing Partner Scott Beardsley, comprises professionals across major life science hubs. Key team members include Amit Kakar, Head of Novo Holdings Asia, and Anna Fan, Senior Partner in the Life Sciences Operating Committee. For startups seeking investment, Novo Holdings values groundbreaking science and robust clinical data, favoring companies with late preclinical or clinical stage compounds in biotech, and commercial stage entities in medtech and digital health

Nucleus Capital, founded in 2020 and based in Berlin, Germany, is a venture capital firm dedicated to supporting early-stage, purpose-driven entrepreneurs tackling systemic challenges to planetary health. They focus on three main sectors: programmable biology, food technology, and green industrials. Notable investments by Nucleus Capital include Yuri, a space biotech company; Planet A Foods, which develops biotech-derived food ingredients; and Hier Foods, a digital platform for food distribution. Other key investments encompass innovative startups like Farmless, which transforms renewable energy into food, and Brineworks, which focuses on ocean-based CO2 removal through electrochemistry​. Nucleus Capital typically invests in pre-seed and seed stages with check sizes ranging from €150k to €1 million. They aim to partner with mission-driven teams possessing deep domain expertise and creative solutions to global environmental challenges​​. The firm is led by co-founders Maximilian Schwarz and Isabella Fandrych, who bring significant expertise and a strong commitment to fostering entrepreneurial innovation for planetary health​.

Nutreco is a global leader in animal nutrition and aquafeed, committed to sustainably feeding the growing global population. Headquartered in the Netherlands, Nutreco operates through two primary business lines: Skretting, which focuses on aquaculture, and Trouw Nutrition, which serves the livestock industry. The company’s overarching mission, known as "Feeding the Future," is to drive sustainability across the entire food production chain. Nutreco's strategy is centered around three main areas: supporting sustainable production through technology, advancing nutrition and animal health, and sourcing future protein ingredients. The company is heavily invested in developing sustainable alternatives to traditional feed ingredients, including the use of insect protein and other novel sources. This approach aims to reduce the environmental footprint of animal farming, which is crucial as feed ingredient production currently accounts for a significant portion of greenhouse gas emissions in the livestock industry. Innovation is a key pillar of Nutreco's operations, primarily driven by their NuFrontiers team, which focuses on breakthrough technologies that can transform the protein value chain. Nutreco has also been expanding its production capabilities in growth markets like Asia and Latin America, as well as optimizing its operations to increase agility and reduce costs. The company’s investments are aimed at not just expanding its market presence but also ensuring that its products and practices are aligned with global sustainability goals, making it a crucial player in the future of food production​.

Nysnø Climate Investments is a state-owned Norwegian venture capital fund focused on advancing climate solutions through smart, profitable investments. Established in 2017 and based in Stavanger, Nysnø targets companies and technologies that directly contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The fund invests across sectors such as renewable energy, battery technology, offshore wind, and sustainable materials, supporting companies in their growth and commercialization phases. Nysnø has made significant strides in the green industry, with notable investments in companies like Morrow Batteries, a leader in sustainable battery production, and Vårgrønn, which develops offshore wind projects. The fund also emphasizes the importance of building new green value chains and has recently expanded into international investments, including participation in ArcTern Ventures II, a cleantech fund with a focus on North America and Europe. Primarily investing in companies linked to Norway, Nysnø also places a strong focus on long-term profitability, ensuring that its investments yield both financial returns and substantial environmental benefits. Through its portfolio, Nysnø has contributed to the growth of over 185 companies, helping to accelerate the green transition while creating positive societal impacts.

O'Reilly AlphaTech Ventures is an early-stage venture capital firm founded by Tim O’Reilly, Mark Jacobsen, and Bryce Roberts. Established in 2005, OATV focuses on institutional seed investing and supporting founders who are customer-centric and revenue-focused. The firm has pioneered investment strategies aimed at helping startups grow sustainably. OATV’s portfolio includes companies like Figma, Bitly, and Planet Labs, showcasing their commitment to backing innovative tech ventures. The firm provides not just capital but also mentorship and strategic guidance, leveraging the founders’ extensive entrepreneurial experience.

Obvious Ventures, founded in 2014 and based in San Francisco, is a venture capital firm focused on early and growth-stage investments. The firm emphasizes investments that align with their "world positive" approach, targeting sectors like planetary health, human health, and economic health. This mission-driven investment strategy seeks to support companies that create a positive impact on the world while generating significant financial returns. Notable investments by Obvious Ventures include Beyond Meat, Medable, and Dexterity. Beyond Meat, known for its plant-based meat products, went public in 2019, marking a significant milestone for the firm. Medable provides a cloud-based platform for decentralized clinical trials, while Dexterity develops AI-driven robotic systems for managing warehouses. Obvious Ventures has a diverse portfolio of over 130 companies, with successful exits including Recursion Pharmaceuticals, Lilium, and Proterra. The firm's portfolio spans various industries such as AI, biotech, fintech, and sustainable consumer goods. The team at Obvious Ventures includes co-founders Ev Williams, James Joaquin, and Vishal Vasishth, who bring extensive experience in entrepreneurship and venture capital. They are committed to supporting visionary founders who are building transformative companies.

OCA Ventures, based in Chicago, is an early-stage venture capital firm that has been investing since 1999. The firm primarily targets technology, financial services, education, and healthcare technology sectors. Their investment strategy focuses on Seed, Series A, and Series B rounds, with typical initial investments ranging from $1 to $4 million. They often lead the rounds in which they participate. Notable companies in their portfolio include SpotHero, a parking app; Base CRM, a cloud-based customer relationship management software; Pangea, an online money transfer service; and Cleversafe, a cloud-based data storage system. Other significant investments include dv01, LogicGate, and Placer.ai. OCA Ventures is also known for its OCA EDGE program, which invests $50,000 to $200,000 in seed rounds of about $1.5 million or less. This program is designed to support early-stage startups with potential for dramatic growth. The firm has a strong track record of successful exits, including the sale of Cleversafe to IBM and the IPO of Marqeta. Led by CEO Jim Dugan and co-founders John Dugan and Peter Ianello, OCA Ventures leverages a robust network of strategic relationships to support their portfolio companies and drive their growth.

Ocean 14 Capital is a private equity firm dedicated to transforming the "blue economy," with a strong focus on addressing environmental challenges while generating competitive financial returns. Established in 2020, the firm primarily invests in sectors like sustainable aquaculture, alternative proteins, circular plastics, and ocean conservation technologies. Its mission aligns with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 14 (SDG 14), which aims to conserve and sustainably use ocean resources​. The firm has successfully raised €200 million for its first fund, attracting cornerstone investors such as the European Investment Fund (EIF), Minderoo Foundation, and Chr. Augustinus Fabrikker. Ocean 14’s investment strategy targets companies with innovations that protect marine ecosystems and promote food security, such as SyAqua (shrimp genetics and nutrition) and AION (a circular plastics service)​. Ocean 14 seeks to drive sustainable growth in the blue economy, a sector expected to reach $3 trillion by 2030. They aim to invest in 20-25 companies, with an emphasis on scalable technologies that offer both environmental impact and financial returns​.

Oceans Ventures is an early-stage venture capital firm headquartered in New York, focusing on Pre-Seed and Seed Stage investments. They prioritize building strong, technically proficient teams and invest across sectors including B2B, SaaS, Cloud, AI, and Web3 infrastructure. The firm's notable investments include companies like Carbon Counts, Virtualness, and Lean Financial, which span industries from online gaming to financial services. The firm is managed by experienced professionals such as Brian Lew, Sara Barek, Glenn Handler, Joshua Rahn, and Steven Rosenblatt, who bring a hands-on approach to supporting their portfolio companies. Oceans Ventures emphasizes a collaborative model, actively assisting startups in recruiting top talent and refining their operational strategies​. Their investment strategy is characterized by a strong focus on teams with high integrity, deep domain expertise, and a commitment to growth. Oceans Ventures primarily invests in US-based companies located in talent-rich cities like New York, San Francisco, LA, and Boston.

Octopus Ventures, established in 2007 and headquartered in London, is a major venture capital firm in Europe with over £1.2 billion in assets under management. The firm invests in a diverse range of sectors, including B2B software, health tech, fintech, deep tech, consumer, climate, and bio. Their notable investments include well-known companies such as SwiftKey, ManyPets (formerly known as Bought By Many), Zoopla, LoveFilm, and Graze. Octopus Ventures focuses on supporting startups from pre-seed through to Series A and beyond, providing both funding and hands-on support to help companies scale. The firm is committed to backing founders with purpose-driven missions, emphasizing positive impact on people, communities, and the environment. Octopus Ventures employs a strategy that prioritizes long-term relationships with founders and deep sector expertise. They are particularly focused on disruptive technologies and innovative solutions that address significant global challenges. Recent investments reflect their commitment to sustainability and tech innovation, including companies like Token in fintech, Elliptic in blockchain analytics, and Minimum in climate tech. Led by a team of experienced investors and industry experts, Octopus Ventures ensures their portfolio companies receive the strategic guidance and operational support necessary for growth. The firm continues to expand its influence globally, aiming to foster innovation and drive positive change in the venture capital landscape.

OCV Partners is a Los Angeles-based venture capital firm, established with a mission to invest in companies that demonstrate significant growth potential, primarily in the technology and healthcare sectors. Their investment strategy is focused on mid- to late-stage companies, often in fields such as SaaS, fintech, biotech, and digital health. With a portfolio that includes innovative firms like Jukin Media, Scopely, and TaskUs, OCV Partners has positioned itself as a hands-on investor, providing both capital and operational support to help scale high-growth companies​. The firm prides itself on its diverse expertise, backing founders through every phase of their business journey. The OCV team brings decades of experience in building and scaling companies across various industries, from software and financial services to healthcare and media. They partner with startups not just to provide financial backing, but also to offer operational insight, helping businesses navigate the complexities of scaling. OCV Partners is well-known for its long-term mindset, focusing on building sustainable value through innovation and strong partnerships. The firm typically invests in companies at the seed to Series B stages, though they remain flexible and open to later-stage opportunities when appropriate.

Offline Ventures, founded in 2020 and based in Mill Valley, California, is a venture capital firm focused on investing in early-stage startups across diverse sectors such as fintech, healthcare, and consumer technology. The firm is led by co-founders David Morin, Nate Bosshard, Brittany Morin, and James Higa, who bring extensive experience from various successful ventures. Notable investments by Offline Ventures include companies like Sunnyside, which focuses on application software; Kismet, a healthcare services company; and Clarasight, a business productivity software firm. They have a total of 48 investments and have seen several successful exits, including Diagram and Artifact. Offline Ventures is known for supporting startups that innovate at the intersection of technology and culture. They emphasize backing founders who are committed to building impactful and sustainable businesses. The firm also operates a venture studio to help incubate and develop new ideas into successful companies.

OIF Ventures is a Sydney-based venture capital firm that focuses on backing early-stage companies, particularly in the B2B SaaS, fintech, cybersecurity, and marketplace sectors. Established in 2016, OIF Ventures has built a reputation for its founder-centric approach, working closely with ambitious entrepreneurs to help them scale and succeed globally. With over $500 million in assets under management, the firm provides more than just capital—offering strategic guidance, a deep investor network, and support for global expansion, particularly into the U.S. market. Their portfolio includes notable companies like Go1, Instaclustr, and Kasada, reflecting their investment focus on scalable, tech-driven businesses with the potential for significant impact. OIF Ventures typically invests at the Seed, Pre-Series A, and Series A stages, but has flexibility in supporting companies through later rounds as well. The firm is sector-agnostic but prioritizes founders with strong leadership skills and businesses with a clear market advantage and commercial validation. Their mission is to partner with exceptional founders, helping them not only to grow their businesses but also to develop personally as leaders.

Olive Tree Capital is a dynamic venture capital firm headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts, focusing on early-stage investments across various tech-driven sectors. Notable investments include Uber, Postmates, and Lark, illustrating their keen eye for potential high-growth startups. With a strong portfolio in Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Health & Wellness, and Big Data & Analytics, Olive Tree Capital seeks to back transformative companies from pre-seed through Series A stages. Their investment strategy is characterized by flexibility and an evergreen capital structure, allowing them to lead rounds and provide significant follow-on funding without the constraints of traditional fund timelines. This approach facilitates a long-term partnership with startups, aiming for substantial growth and successful exits, as demonstrated by their involvement in high-profile mergers and acquisitions like those of Bueno Finance and 10 Minute Squad. The firm’s geographic focus extends primarily across the United States, with a pronounced presence in the Boston area. Key team members, including Managing Partners Nichola Eliovits and Yamen Al-Hajjar, bring extensive experience in technology and biotechnology, reinforcing the firm's industry expertise and strategic guidance. Olive Tree Capital’s investment process emphasizes rigorous due diligence and a collaborative approach with co-investors like Y Combinator and Soma Capital. Startups seeking to engage with Olive Tree Capital are encouraged to present a compelling vision for innovation and market disruption, aligning with the firm’s commitment to transformative impact and sustainable growth​.

OMERS Ventures, the venture capital arm of the Ontario Municipal Employees' Retirement System, focuses on investing in Series A to C companies across North America. Founded in 2011, the firm has backed several high-profile tech companies like Shopify and Wave. Their investment strategy centers on transformative technology sectors, including fintech, healthtech, proptech, and workplace technology. Typical initial investments range from $5 million to $25 million. OMERS Ventures has decided to withdraw from the European market to concentrate its efforts on North America. This strategic shift follows a challenging market environment in Europe and aims to leverage North America's relative economic stability. As part of this transition, the firm plans to open a new office in New York while maintaining its presence in Toronto and San Francisco. The leadership team includes Michael Yang, who emphasizes the importance of building strong relationships with founders and has a background in investing in emerging areas such as healthtech and IoT. For startups looking to engage with OMERS Ventures, demonstrating a deep understanding of the market and a clear vision for growth is essential. The firm values transparency and strong founder-investor relationships, aiming to support companies through various market challenges and opportunities.

Omnes Capital is a leading European private equity firm specializing in energy transition and innovation. Founded in 1999 and based in Paris, Omnes manages over €5 billion in assets. The firm's investment strategy focuses on four core areas: renewable energy, sustainable cities, deep tech venture capital, and co-investment. Notable investments include Direct Energie, Neoen, and BioSerenity. Omnes has made significant strides in the renewable energy sector with its Capenergie funds, which have invested over €2.5 billion across more than 60 projects in Europe, transforming developers into independent power producers. For example, their Capenergie 2 fund achieved a 15% net IRR, ranking among the top performers in Europe. Omnes also plays a crucial role in sustainable urban development by financing projects that support decarbonization and resilient city infrastructure. Their deep tech investments focus on disruptive technologies and startups pushing the boundaries of innovation. In addition to financial returns, Omnes is committed to responsible investment practices. The firm supports non-profits through the Omnes Foundation, which focuses on education, health, and social integration for children. Omnes is also a signatory of the United Nations Principles for Responsible Investment (PRI), underscoring their commitment to sustainability and ethical investment​.

Omnivore is a leading venture capital firm based in India, focusing on early-stage investments in agritech and food systems. Founded in 2010 by Mark Kahn and Jinesh Shah, Omnivore aims to transform the agricultural sector by supporting startups that enhance productivity, sustainability, and profitability for smallholder farmers and rural communities. The firm’s investment themes include farmer platforms, fintech, B2B agri marketplaces, farm-to-consumer brands, precision agriculture, and post-harvest technologies​. Omnivore's portfolio features notable companies like DeHaat, BharatAgri, and Ecozen, which address critical challenges in the agriculture sector through innovative solutions. The firm recently closed the first round of its third fund, the Omnivore Agritech and Climate Sustainability Fund, with $150 million, aiming to support 25-30 new startups focused on climate-smart agriculture and agrifood life sciences​. Omnivore is also recognized for its significant impact on smallholder farmers, having created substantial economic value and improved agricultural practices across India. The firm has reached over 11.4 million smallholder farmers, enabled $1.44 billion in economic value, and facilitated loans and insurance coverage worth billions​. The investment team, led by Mark Kahn and Jinesh Shah, includes experienced partners and advisors deeply embedded in the agritech ecosystem. Their strategic investments are aimed at generating both financial returns and positive social impact​.

One Way Ventures, founded in 2017 and headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts, is a venture capital firm dedicated to investing in immigrant founders. The firm focuses on seed-stage and early-stage companies across various sectors, including logistics, mobility, fintech, proptech, deep tech, consumer technology, healthcare, AI, machine learning, and robotics. Notable investments by One Way Ventures include Brex, Chipper Cash, Classtag, and Momentus. The firm has made significant exits, such as Legalpad, acquired in 2022, and Lynk, a satellite communications company​. The portfolio is diverse, featuring companies like Beacon, an AI-powered workflow automation platform for logistics; Brelyon, a deep tech company creating virtual screens; and Care Academy, a caregiver training platform. Co-founded by Semyon Dukach and Eveline Buchatskiy, One Way Ventures aims to support high-impact global companies driven by the unique perspectives and experiences of immigrant founders. The firm values equal opportunity and the collective potential of humankind, striving to eliminate borders as barriers to innovation and growth​.

OpenOcean is a leading pan-European venture capital firm focusing on early-stage investments, particularly in Series A rounds, with an emphasis on data economy, B2B platforms, and enterprise software technology. Founded by the team behind MySQL and MariaDB, OpenOcean leverages its deep technical expertise to identify and support innovative startups that can rapidly scale and achieve global adoption. Notable investments include Truecaller, which has grown into a prominent global communications platform with over 200 million daily active users, and MariaDB, a leading open-source database company that recently went public on the New York Stock Exchange. Other significant portfolio companies include Nosto, a marketing automation tool, and Supermetrics, a global leader in marketing data integration tools. OpenOcean’s investment strategy is data-driven and focuses on sectors such as AI, data infrastructure, DevOps, and automation. They typically invest up to €6 million per company, leading or co-leading the investment rounds. The firm has a strong commitment to fostering diversity and transparency within its portfolio companies, ensuring a supportive environment for founders. The team at OpenOcean, with offices in Helsinki and London, is known for its hands-on approach, helping startups navigate the complexities of scaling their businesses and achieving sustainable growth. This approach has led to the creation of several unicorns and high-growth companies that are transforming their respective industries.

OpenSpace Ventures is a prominent venture capital firm based in Southeast Asia, known for its strategic investments in transformative tech companies across the region. Established in 2014, OpenSpace Ventures has backed notable companies like Gojek, Halodoc, and Love, Bonito, which have made significant impacts in their respective industries. The firm focuses on sectors such as fintech, healthcare, e-commerce, and digital media. Their portfolio includes companies like Lista, a financial management platform for individuals and small business owners in the Philippines; Lucence, a precision oncology company; and Nutrition Technologies, which produces sustainable insect-based proteins for agriculture. OpenSpace Ventures employs a hands-on approach, providing not only capital but also strategic guidance and operational support to help their portfolio companies scale and succeed. They manage several funds, including those focused on Series A/B and mid-stage growth investments, and are recognized for their deep expertise and active involvement in the Southeast Asian startup ecosystem​.

OpenView Venture Partners, based in Boston, is a leading venture capital firm focused on expansion-stage B2B software companies. Founded in 2006 by Scott Maxwell, OpenView specializes in product-led growth (PLG), backing high-potential startups in sectors like SaaS, cloud computing, and productivity software. Notable investments include companies like Calendly, Expensify, and UserTesting, which have scaled into industry leaders with the firm’s support. OpenView typically invests between $5 million and $15 million, focusing on companies with $2 million to $20 million in revenue. Their strategy revolves around more than just capital; they provide operational expertise, assisting with areas like pricing, go-to-market strategy, and talent acquisition. Their value-add model means they work closely with portfolio companies to optimize growth and operational efficiency, helping founders build sustainable and scalable businesses. Geographically, OpenView invests primarily in North America, with a keen eye for businesses that are ready to transition from early traction to full-scale market dominance. The firm is known for its deep expertise in the enterprise software space and is selective about partnering with companies that align with its product-led growth thesis. The leadership team, including key partners like Blake Bartlett and John McCullough, are hands-on with portfolio companies, often playing a pivotal role in key hires and strategic decisions. OpenView is particularly known for its content and community efforts, offering valuable industry insights and resources to help software leaders grow faster.

Operate is a hands-on venture studio based in Newport Beach, California, focused on helping early-stage software startups succeed by offering both capital and operational support. Founded in 2020, Operate's unique model goes beyond traditional VC funding by embedding a team of experienced operators into its portfolio companies. This team actively works alongside founders to guide them through critical phases like product-market fit and scaling, providing customized blueprints for growth. The firm typically invests at the pre-seed and seed stages, with check sizes ranging from $100K to $750K. Operate is particularly interested in sectors like SaaS, mobility, and social impact, favoring startups with a clear path to scalable business models. Notable companies backed by Operate include Grin Gaming and Spoonful, where they helped founders refine their vision and execute on growth strategies. Co-founded by Carey Ransom, Deepa Krishnan, and Kyle Kamrooz, Operate is committed to being more than just an investor—it acts as a strategic partner. The team leverages its vast network and operational expertise to help startups not only secure funding but also meet key partners and attract top talent. The firm actively seeks out startups with a strong mission, preferring to be approached via personal introductions. If you’re building a game-changing software company, Operate could be the perfect co-builder to drive your success.

Operator Partners is a venture capital firm that uniquely operates with its own capital, investing in technology companies from the pre-seed to Series B stages. Founded and led by experienced entrepreneurs, the firm provides support beyond financial investment, focusing on helping companies with business building and scaling challenges that arise between board meetings. Operator Partners has a hands-on approach, offering guidance based on their own entrepreneurial experiences. They engage with founders on various aspects such as product development, customer acquisition, fundraising, recruiting, and establishing organizational culture. The firm does not lead funding rounds or take board seats but assists in finding lead investors if needed. The team includes General Partners Amit Avner, Gil Shklarski, Nat Turner, and Zach Weinberg, along with Partner Olivia Benjamin. This team brings extensive expertise from founding and scaling successful companies themselves, making them well-equipped to support their portfolio companies effectively.