Gaming VC Funds

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.

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.

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.

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.

Shine Capital, founded in 2020 by Moshe Koyfman, is a New York-based venture capital firm that focuses on early-stage investments across the United States. The firm primarily backs startups with strong, creative founders who demonstrate relentlessness and conviction. Shine Capital's portfolio includes investments in companies such as Mother Games and Remark, covering a wide range of industries, including entertainment software and network management. The firm generally invests in pre-seed, seed, and Series A rounds, often co-investing with other prominent funds like Lux Capital and Union Square Ventures. Shine Capital is known for its hands-on support to founders, helping them scale through strategic guidance and a robust network. The firm is also noted for actively participating in early-stage funding with an average check size ranging from $200,000 to $500,000. Key team members include Amanda Niu, CFO and General Partner, and Alex Hartz, General Partner. Their approach emphasizes personal relationships and partnerships with entrepreneurs who exhibit creativity and resilience.

Shrug Capital, founded in 2018 by Niv Dror and Moshe Lifschitz, is a San Francisco-based venture capital firm with a strong focus on early-stage consumer startups. Their notable investments include Artie, Atoms, Cocoon, Superplastic, Voiceflow, and Genies, among others. Shrug Capital predominantly targets sectors such as entertainment, human capital, application software, hardware, and social platforms. Geographically, Shrug Capital is concentrated in the San Francisco Bay Area but maintains a broad investment scope across the United States. Their strategy emphasizes early-stage investments, often leading rounds with an average check size that aligns with the initial scaling needs of consumer-focused startups. The firm is well-regarded for its hands-on approach and value-add philosophy, actively supporting portfolio companies beyond just capital injection. The team at Shrug Capital includes key figures like Niv Dror, formerly of AngelList, and Moshe Lifschitz, both leveraging their extensive industry networks to secure backing from A-list investors such as Marc Andreessen, Chris Dixon, and Kevin Rose. This strong backing allows Shrug to punch above its weight in competitive funding rounds. For startups looking to approach Shrug Capital, crafting a compelling pitch deck that highlights unique selling points and aligns with their focus on consumer innovation is crucial. The firm has been notably active recently, with investments in companies like Summer Health and Supergreat, showing their ongoing commitment to fostering innovative consumer technologies.

Side Door Ventures is a global venture capital firm that focuses on backing audacious founders building cutting-edge companies in sectors like software, life sciences, space, blockchain, and frontier technologies. Established with a mission to invest in transformative industries, Side Door Ventures takes a generalist approach, actively supporting startups across various fields. The firm operates multiple funds, including a Seed Fund, Michigan Fund, Digital Asset Fund, and an Opportunity Fund, allowing them to invest at different stages of growth. Their investments range from early-stage seed funding (up to $500K) to larger follow-on checks of up to $5M for scaling companies. Side Door Ventures is particularly committed to companies based in Michigan, where it seeks to strengthen the local tech ecosystem with focused investments in advanced mobility, AI, and clean energy. Their portfolio includes a broad range of companies such as K2 Space, Mysten Labs, and Flare Systems, reflecting their sector-agnostic philosophy. They have a globally distributed team of founders, space engineers, and biotech experts, which allows them to offer deep operational support to their portfolio companies. Startups looking to partner with Side Door Ventures should be prepared to present bold, world-changing ideas that align with the firm’s focus on innovation and global impact.

Sierra Ventures, founded in 1982 and based in San Mateo, California, is an early-stage venture capital firm with a focus on enterprise, healthcare, infrastructure, and deep technology startups. The firm has managed over $2 billion in assets across multiple funds. Some of Sierra Ventures' notable investments include companies like Intuit, MakeMyTrip, Teradata, Treasure Data, and Zimperium​. Sierra Ventures typically makes initial investments between $500,000 and $7 million, and invests up to $15 million over the life of an investment. The firm actively participates in seed and Series A rounds, providing significant strategic support through their Operating Team, which assists in business development, strategy, and partnerships​​. The leadership team includes managing partners such as Mark Fernandes and Ben Yu, who have extensive experience in guiding startups to success. The firm is also known for its annual CXO Summit, which connects technology leaders and provides insights into emerging trends and best practices​​. For startups looking to engage with Sierra Ventures, it’s essential to demonstrate strong innovation and scalability potential. The firm prefers startups to approach through their network and values detailed and compelling business pitches aligned with their focus areas

Sigma Prime Ventures is a Boston-based venture capital firm that focuses on early-stage investments, particularly in SaaS, cloud, mobile, and disruptive technology sectors. With a team of seasoned entrepreneurs and investors, Sigma Prime prides itself on its hands-on approach, offering strategic guidance and operational support to startups. The firm has been active for over two decades, with a strong track record of backing innovative companies. Notable portfolio companies include Nasuni, a leading cloud file storage platform, and Phenom, a talent management solution. Sigma Prime Ventures targets high-potential startups in sectors like enterprise software and business applications, aiming to drive both financial returns and industry disruption. They typically invest in Series A to C rounds, focusing heavily on companies with strong growth potential on the East Coast of the U.S. but with a broader national reach. The leadership team, including partners like Paul Flanagan and John Simon, brings deep experience from both operational roles and venture investing. Sigma Prime is known for its collaborative approach, often co-investing with other major venture firms to help companies scale effectively. With successful exits such as Acquia and Mobiquity, the firm continues to position itself as a key player in fostering technological innovation.

SignalFire, established in 2013 and headquartered in San Francisco, is a data-driven venture capital firm specializing in early-stage investments. The firm manages over $1.8 billion in assets across multiple funds, including their Seed, Breakout, XIR, and Opportunities funds. SignalFire’s unique approach integrates artificial intelligence through their proprietary Beacon AI platform, which tracks over 495 million employees and 80 million companies to provide strategic insights for investment and portfolio support. The firm's investment strategy focuses on sectors like AI/ML, developer tools, healthcare, and cybersecurity. Notable investments include Frame.io, Grammarly, Flock Freight, Ro, and Stampli. SignalFire is known for leading seed rounds and selectively investing in Series A and B rounds, providing extensive support through their team of experts and 200 annual workshops covering various aspects of business growth. SignalFire’s latest $900 million fundraising round demonstrates strong investor confidence in their tech-enabled approach to venture capital. The firm’s Executive-in-Residence (XIR) program pairs experienced industry leaders with high-potential portfolio companies to further enhance growth and operational expertise.

Signia Venture Partners, based in Redwood City, California, is an early-stage venture capital firm founded in 2012. The firm focuses on investing in technology-driven companies, spanning sectors such as SaaS, fintech, e-commerce, gaming, and blockchain. Signia typically invests between $500k and $3 million in early-stage startups. Their portfolio includes notable companies like Cruise (acquired by General Motors), Tenor (acquired by Google), Blue Talon (acquired by Microsoft), and FunPlus (acquired by Zhongji). Other significant investments include Bitski, Collective, Phoenix Labs (acquired by Garena), and Sendoso​. Signia's approach emphasizes building strong, supportive relationships with entrepreneurs, offering not just capital but also strategic guidance and operational support to help companies grow and scale. They aim to be highly involved and act as valuable partners to their portfolio companies.

Silver Lake, founded in 1999 and headquartered in Menlo Park, California, is a leading private equity firm specializing in technology investments. With offices across North America, Europe, and Asia, Silver Lake manages approximately $102 billion in assets under management. The firm has a notable track record of investing in high-profile technology companies. Significant investments include Airbnb, Twitter, and Waymo. Silver Lake's portfolio spans various sectors, with a strong focus on technology and technology-enabled industries. They have also made substantial investments in companies like Ant Group, City Football Group, and Dell Technologies, highlighting their broad investment scope and strategic influence in the tech industry. Silver Lake's investment strategy involves making significant equity investments and often taking substantial stakes in their portfolio companies. They aim to partner with management teams to drive growth and create value. Recent exits include companies like Global Blue and C2i Genomics, indicating their active role in managing and eventually exiting investments to maximize returns. The firm is led by co-CEOs Egon Durban and Greg Mondre, supported by a large team of experienced professionals. For startups and companies seeking investment, Silver Lake typically looks for businesses with strong growth potential and innovative technology solutions.

Silverton Partners, founded in 2006 and based in Austin, Texas, is a leading early-stage venture capital firm. They focus on investing in innovative startups across various sectors including enterprise software, consumer products, healthcare, and fintech. Silverton Partners has made a significant impact in the venture capital landscape, particularly in the Texas region. The firm has invested in over 100 companies and has achieved more than 30 successful exits, including notable companies such as SailPoint, AlertMedia, and Favor Delivery. SailPoint, a leader in identity governance, went public and significantly raised its market profile. AlertMedia, known for its emergency communication software, was acquired by Vista Equity Partners. Favor Delivery, a popular food delivery service, was acquired by H-E-B, a major supermarket chain. Silverton Partners continues to support high-growth startups with their latest investments including The Zebra, an online insurance comparison platform; Self Financial, a credit-building platform; and Wheel, a telehealth marketplace for healthcare professionals. These companies exemplify Silverton Partners' commitment to fostering innovative solutions with the potential for substantial market impact. The firm is led by experienced partners such as Morgan Flager, Mike Dodd, and Roger Chen, who bring extensive expertise and a hands-on approach to supporting their portfolio companies. Silverton Partners' active involvement in the startup ecosystem and their strategic investments have positioned them as a key player in early-stage venture capital​.

Sinovation Ventures, founded in 2009 by Dr. Kai-Fu Lee, is a leading Chinese venture capital firm specializing in early to growth-stage investments. The firm focuses on sectors such as artificial intelligence, robotics, automation, semiconductors, and healthcare technology. With a presence in both China and the United States, Sinovation Ventures has raised over $3 billion across multiple funds. Notable investments by Sinovation Ventures include companies such as Niu Technologies, Planetary Resources, Securly, TuSimple, VIPKid, WeRide, Wonder Workshop, and Zhihu. These investments highlight the firm's commitment to backing innovative companies that leverage advanced technologies to address significant market opportunities and challenges. Sinovation Ventures has a strong track record of successful exits, including the public listing of Zhihu, China's leading question-and-answer platform, and the acquisitions of companies like Securly and TuSimple, an autonomous trucking technology company. The firm is currently targeting $500 million for its fifth fund, having already completed a first close of $200 million. This new fund continues to focus on AI and other advanced technologies, aiming to drive significant advancements and commercial success in these fields​.

Sisu Game Ventures is a Helsinki-based early-stage venture capital fund founded in 2014 and focused exclusively on gaming companies. Headquartered in the heart of Helsinki, Sisu backs the next generation of game-studio founders with pre-seed and seed capital, preferring to be first money in — typically pre-revenue and most often pre-product — and then supporting founders with deep operational expertise. The firm explicitly structures itself as an evergreen investment company rather than a traditional LP-driven fund, which eliminates forced exit pressure and allows founders to build on their own timeline. Sisu is led by partners Samuli Syvahyoko (co-founder of Remedy Entertainment and serial games operator behind Fathammer, Recoil Games, Helsinki GameWorks, and Armada Interactive), Moaffak Ahmed, Paul Bragiel (also of i/o ventures and Golden Gate Ventures), and Kalle Kaivola, with Erik joining as General Partner in 2020. Collectively the team has built 16 game companies and invested in more than 60 game startups over three decades. Between the $1.1 million first vehicle in 2015 and the $50 million Sisu Ventures III announced in June 2021, total capital raised is approximately $51.1 million. The portfolio holds 117 disclosed investments including Umbra, Nextmind, Network Next, Cosmic Lounge, Coherence, and Resolution Games. The most recent new investment was Anti-Hero Studios in March 2026, following Seven Stars in February 2025. Sisu's thesis is deliberately narrow: gaming only, first check, evergreen capital. That focus means the firm brings domain expertise and operator networks that generalist VCs cannot match when evaluating game studios at the idea stage.

Skalata Ventures is an early-stage venture capital firm based in Melbourne, Australia, that focuses on supporting high-potential startups through their formative stages. Founded by Rohan Workman and Maxine Lee, Skalata provides not only capital but also deep operational support, offering founders the tools they need to scale sustainably. Their mission is to help create the next generation of impactful companies that drive job creation and economic growth. The firm operates a five-month seed program where startups receive tailored guidance, often investing up to $1 million per company. Their portfolio spans a wide range of industries, including edtech, fintech, augmented reality, and sustainability. Notable investments include Preezie, a B2B platform that raised $5.5 million for its US expansion, and Ardacious, which develops augmented reality solutions for gaming and education. Skalata's team, which includes experienced professionals like Paul Little as Chairman and Anthony Glenning as Fund Manager, brings a wealth of expertise in sectors like financial services, technology, and corporate law. Their approach emphasizes humility, resilience, and customer-centric thinking in the founders they back, ensuring that companies are well-positioned for long-term success.

Skyfall Ventures is an early-stage venture capital firm based in Oslo, Norway, specializing in Nordic technology startups. Founded in 2016, Skyfall Ventures manages over NOK 350 million and focuses on companies with high growth potential, particularly those led by teams with a strong technical background. The firm primarily invests in early-stage companies, often participating in seed rounds, with initial investment tickets ranging from NOK 3-5 million, and provides follow-on capital for growth. Skyfall is sector-agnostic but shows a strong interest in industries like artificial intelligence, blockchain, web3, bioinformatics, and climate tech. The firm has made approximately 40 investments, including notable companies such as Tise, Nabobil, Vev, and Strise, many of which are focused on software innovation with a significant emphasis on scalability. The venture firm prioritizes startups that leverage cutting-edge technology to create disruptive solutions in their respective markets. Skyfall’s philosophy includes backing companies as early as possible, often before they have fully developed their product, allowing founders to receive support right from the idea stage. With a strong commitment to its portfolio companies, Skyfall’s approach blends entrepreneurial insight and financial backing to help founders navigate the early challenges of growth and scale effectively. For those interested in pitching to Skyfall, the firm actively encourages early-stage founders to connect and explore potential partnerships.

Slauson & Co. is an early-stage venture capital firm based in Los Angeles, founded in 2020 by Austin Clements and Ajay Relan. The firm is dedicated to driving economic inclusion by investing in small business technologies and culturally relevant consumer products. Slauson & Co. focuses on supporting historically underrepresented founders, particularly those from Black and Latinx communities, who often face significant barriers in the traditional venture capital ecosystem. The firm has a mission to democratize access to entrepreneurship, with a belief that talent is evenly distributed but opportunity is not. Backed by industry leaders like Ron Conway, Jeff Wilke, and PayPal, Slauson & Co. aims to bridge this gap by intentionally including founders who bring unique perspectives and lived experiences that give them a competitive advantage in building innovative, category-defining companies. Slauson & Co. manages a $50 million fund and has already invested $24 million across 26 portfolio companies, many of which are founded by people of color. Their approach includes not only financial investment but also holistic support through programs like their Friends & Family accelerator, which provides non-dilutive capital and mentorship to early-stage companies. The firm is committed to reshaping the venture capital landscape by prioritizing inclusivity, founder wellness, and sustainable business practices.

Slow Ventures is a prominent early-stage venture capital firm that invests in companies positioned at the heart of the technology industry, as well as those exploring the edges of science, society, and culture. With offices in San Francisco, New York, and Boston, Slow Ventures has built a reputation for backing transformative ideas and helping visionary founders turn those ideas into impactful businesses. Their portfolio includes high-profile startups such as Allbirds, Robinhood, and Pinterest, which demonstrate the firm’s commitment to disruptive innovation across multiple sectors. Slow Ventures’ investment philosophy revolves around empowering companies that have the potential to shift entire industries. Whether it's a consumer product revolutionizing the way people think about sustainability, or a fintech platform democratizing access to financial markets, Slow Ventures seeks founders who are deeply curious, passionate, and mission-driven. The firm typically writes checks at the pre-seed, seed, and Series A stages, offering flexible financial support and hands-on mentorship to help startups grow from concept to full-scale operations​. With a focus on creating long-term value, Slow Ventures is deeply involved in the entrepreneurial journey, providing founders with access to a community of experienced advisors and resources. Their approach goes beyond financial investment, aiming to nurture companies that can positively impact society. They also have a strong interest in the convergence of technology with cultural and scientific developments, giving them a unique edge in spotting emerging trends and opportunities​.

SMBC Venture Capital, established in 2005, is the corporate venture capital arm of Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation (SMBC), headquartered in Tokyo, Japan. The firm focuses on early to growth-stage investments across a diverse range of industries, including technology, healthcare, financial services, and mobility solutions. With a portfolio of over 656 investments and significant co-investment partnerships, SMBC Venture Capital plays a vital role in fostering innovation within Japan's startup ecosystem. Notable recent investments include companies like SmartNews, which became a unicorn in 2019, and Luup, a micromobility service that provides essential transport solutions across Japan. SMBC Venture Capital's strategic approach combines rigorous risk assessment with a willingness to support promising startups even in their nascent stages. This flexibility and foresight have enabled the firm to back companies that address critical market needs and have the potential for significant growth​. The firm is led by a team of seasoned professionals, including President Tomofumi Saeki and Deputy General Manager Naoki Fujita, who bring extensive experience in investment strategy and corporate finance. SMBC Venture Capital's strong alignment with its parent company's resources and network allows it to provide substantial operational support and strategic guidance to its portfolio companies, facilitating their growth and success in both domestic and international markets.

SMOK Ventures is a Polish-American early-stage venture capital firm founded in May 2019 by Borys Musielak, Diana Koziarska, and San Francisco-based investor Paul Bragiel, with offices in Warsaw and Silicon Valley. The firm bridges Central and Eastern European founders with Western capital markets, writing $100,000 to $1 million cheques into pre-seed and seed rounds of CEE founders and the global CEE diaspora -- with particular concentration on Polish entrepreneurs incorporating in the US. Core investment themes include developer tools, AI, gaming, AR/VR, marketing technology, and fintech. SMOK leads rounds across its portfolio. The firm has raised approximately $35 million across two vehicles: Fund I, a Euro 9 million fund deployed into 24 startups between 2020 and 2022, and Fund II, a $25 million fund closed in January 2024 backed by more than 60 private LPs including Andrew Sieja, founder of Relativity, via OnDean Forward. Fund II plans to back up to 35 companies. As of mid-2025 SMOK holds 47 portfolio companies -- 23 headquartered in Poland, 17 as Delaware C-Corps, and 5 elsewhere in CEE. A structural strength is follow-on activity: approximately 80% of subsequent rounds for SMOK portfolio companies come from Western Europe, Silicon Valley, or Asia. Named portfolio companies include Alokai (Vue Storefront), Authologic, inStreamly, Masthead Data, Slickshift, HiPets, SmartHotel, Finmap, and 57hours. SMOK's cross-border thesis is grounded in the observation that CEE has produced world-class engineering talent while remaining under-invested by institutional capital. The firm's dual-geography presence gives portfolio founders credibility in Silicon Valley fundraising conversations while leveraging the founders' home-market operational advantages.

SNO Ventures is a Nordic-focused early-stage venture capital firm founded in 2015 and headquartered in Oslo, Norway, positioned as a global-access, local-support partner for the region's most ambitious technology founders. The firm was co-founded by Magne Uppman and Teodor Bjerrang, who lead an international partnership that now includes partners Max Samuel and Kremena Tosheva, supported by a team of around eight people with six partners across the Nordics and the US. SNO leads and co-leads rounds and routinely syndicates with Tiger Global, Founders Fund, TQ Ventures, Coatue, a16z, Paradigm, Accel, Seedcamp, Talis Capital, and Temasek. Across three funds the firm has raised more than $100 million in cumulative capital: Fund I at approximately $12 million (100 million NOK), Fund II at approximately $54 million (550 million NOK), and Fund III at a roughly $100 million target dedicated to backing visionary Nordic entrepreneurs at pre-seed, seed, and Series A. The LP base is unusual for a Nordic micro-VC: funds are anchored by German-American billionaire Peter Thiel and other Silicon Valley backers who share SNO's frontier-tech, contrarian investment thesis. SNO has made 24 disclosed investments. Notable portfolio companies include Sky Mavis / Axie Infinity -- the Vietnamese blockchain-gaming unicorn whose $152 million Series B was led by a16z -- Presail, Sceneri, Be Your Best, Nordic Air Defence in counter-drone defense, Stendr, and most recently IntuiCell. SNO's philosophy is to back founders with global ambitions from day one, helping them access the international capital and networks that Nordic ecosystems historically required Silicon Valley sponsors to unlock.

Social Capital, founded in 2011 by Chamath Palihapitiya and Ted Maidenberg, is a venture capital firm based in Menlo Park, California. The firm focuses on investing in a wide range of sectors, including healthcare, financial services, education, and enterprise software, emphasizing companies that aim to solve significant societal problems through technology and innovation​. Over the years, Social Capital has made notable investments in companies such as Slack, Yammer, and Opendoor Technologies. The firm gained attention for its SPAC (Special Purpose Acquisition Company) strategy, which led to the successful public listing of companies like Opendoor​. Social Capital manages a substantial portfolio with 488 investments and 176 exits. The firm has a unique approach that combines traditional venture capital with a strong focus on social impact and systemic change. Chamath Palihapitiya, the CEO, continues to lead the firm, driving its mission to tackle complex global challenges through innovative solutions​.

Social Impact Capital, founded in 2016 by Sarah Cone and based in New York City, is an early-stage venture capital firm dedicated to addressing critical environmental and social challenges. The firm’s investment strategy, called "impact arbitrage," focuses on seed-stage companies, helping them scale and secure follow-on funding from top-tier VCs. This approach has led to a 100% follow-on financing rate for its portfolio companies. Notable investments include Prometheus Fuels, Andela, and OpenInvest, with the latter being acquired by JP Morgan. The portfolio spans various sectors such as clean tech, health, and social justice, featuring companies like Totus Medicines, Charm Industrial, Aether Diamonds, and Menten AI. Led by Sarah Cone, an experienced venture capitalist with a background in tech and nonprofits, Social Impact Capital also includes key members like Peter Bruce-Clark and Melody Donoso. The firm supports founders with innovative, scalable solutions, making it a significant player in impact investing, combining financial returns with positive societal impact.

Social Starts is a venture capital firm that uses a data-driven approach to identify and invest in early-stage companies. Founded in 2012, the firm has a focus on sectors such as health tech, digital brands, e-commerce, employment platforms, next-generation food, and education. Social Starts operates a series of funds, including the "Social Starts Health and Happiness" fund, which targets startups aiming to improve human health and well-being​. The firm's investment range typically falls between $50,000 and $1 million, with a sweet spot around $500,000. Social Starts is known for supporting companies from their inception through to Series A rounds, leveraging a robust network of advisors and industry experts to help portfolio companies grow​. With a presence in major innovation hubs like San Francisco, New York, Los Angeles, Tokyo, London, Austin, Boston, and Singapore, Social Starts has built a diverse portfolio. The firm is particularly noted for its ability to find and back high-potential startups in emerging segments by employing advanced analytics to guide its investment decisions​.

Socially Financed is a venture capital firm based in New York, focused on early-stage investments with a strong emphasis on social impact. Founded in 2020 by Aaron LaRue, Albert Cheng, and Stephen Sikes, the firm aims to invest in companies that generate both financial returns and measurable positive social outcomes. Their portfolio includes notable investments like AppFlowy and Plane, which highlight their commitment to fostering innovative solutions in software development and business productivity. Socially Financed operates under a mission to amplify the impact of their investments by offering comprehensive support, including mentorship and strategic guidance. They prioritize investments in sectors such as workforce and economic mobility, health, and housing. The firm has mobilized over $400 million towards improving lives and communities through various impact-first investment products, including the Google Career Certificates Fund and the Dreamers Graduate Loan Program. Their approach is to create partnerships that drive positive change, working closely with individuals, family offices, and foundations to direct capital towards impactful social and environmental outcomes. This strategy ensures that their investments not only yield financial returns but also contribute to a more inclusive and equitable society​.

Solana Ventures, established in 2021 and headquartered in San Francisco, California, is a venture capital firm dedicated to accelerating the growth of the Solana blockchain ecosystem. The firm focuses on early-stage investments, including seed funding and initial coin offerings (ICOs), across various sectors such as DeFi, NFTs, and Web3 technologies. Solana Ventures has a diverse portfolio of notable investments. Some of their key projects include STEPN, a move-to-earn fitness app; Jito Labs, which focuses on optimizing Solana validators; and Cripco, a blockchain-based entertainment ecosystem. They have invested in 97 companies to date, including high-impact projects like Unite.io, a social platform software, and Ambient Network, an environmental services company. The firm has seen several successful exits, such as Pixelynx, which was acquired in December 2022, and Cardinal, a financial software company. Solana Ventures' investment strategy emphasizes supporting projects that enhance the Solana blockchain's capabilities and ecosystem, leveraging their capital and expertise to foster innovation and growth in the blockchain space.

Solid Ventures is a venture capital firm that focuses on scaling innovative technology companies in the Netherlands and Colombia. Since its founding in 2005, Solid Ventures has supported startups through late-stage seed, Series A, and Series B funding, with investments ranging from €500,000 to €5 million. The firm’s portfolio includes sectors like fintech, software, digital media, and sustainability, positioning itself as a key player in helping tech companies expand internationally. Solid Ventures’ investment strategy centers on partnering with founders who are ready to scale their operations globally. The firm not only provides equity and debt funding but also offers strategic guidance, marketing support, and partnership facilitation. Their hands-on approach ensures that portfolio companies are well-positioned for growth and strategic exits. Notable portfolio companies include CoolGames, which was acquired by Keesing Media Group, and Scarlet, which was sold to Belgacom. Led by seasoned investors such as Robert Wilhelm and Floris van Alkemade, Solid Ventures brings over 200 years of combined venture capital experience. This deep expertise, particularly in the technology and communications sectors, allows the firm to actively guide startups from early growth stages to international success. Solid Ventures’ ability to identify high-potential startups and provide them with the tools for global expansion has solidified its reputation as a reliable partner for tech entrepreneurs looking to scale their innovations.

Soma Capital, founded in 2015 by Aneel Ranadive, is a venture capital firm based in San Francisco, California. The firm focuses on early-stage investments in software and technology startups that aim to automate and improve various sectors. Soma Capital's approach is stage- and sector-agnostic, investing globally in regions such as Africa, the Middle East, South America, and Asia. Soma Capital has raised several funds, with its latest, Soma Capital Fund III, closing at $412 million in January 2022. This fund is used to support unicorn and startup software companies around the world. The firm has made significant investments in over 1,097 companies, including notable names like Cruise, Rappi, Ironclad, Human Interest, Razorpay, Rippling, and Lambda School. Soma Capital has seen 19 of its portfolio companies achieve unicorn status and has been involved in more than 140 exits. The firm’s leadership includes Founder and Managing Partner Aneel Ranadive, along with partners like Mir Faiyaz and Nikhita Jaaswal. Soma Capital's mission is to invest in transformative technology solutions that can impact billions of people globally​.

Sony Innovation Fund is the corporate venture capital arm of Sony Group, established in 2016. SIF invests in early-stage startups with a focus on transformational technologies that shape the future of business, entertainment, and society. The fund operates globally, with offices in the U.S., Japan, EU, Israel, and India, managing over $250 million in assets. SIF targets a wide range of sectors including entertainment, fintech, healthcare, IoT, mobility, deep tech, and sensor technologies. They support startups by providing not only capital but also access to Sony’s extensive technical expertise, global network, and R&D capabilities. This strategic support helps startups scale and innovate within their industries. The fund's portfolio includes companies like Arkose Labs, which focuses on AI/ML for trust and safety, and Truepic, which works on digital content authentication. SIF also places significant emphasis on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) issues, integrating these considerations into their investment process to create long-term value. The leadership team features experienced professionals like Gen Tsuchikawa, Chairman of Sony Ventures Corporation, and Austin Noronha, Managing Director in the U.S., who drive the fund’s strategic vision and operations. SIF continues to explore and invest in innovative technologies that align with Sony’s mission of bringing creativity and promising innovations to a connected world.

Sopris Capital, founded in 2002 and based in Aspen, Colorado, is a venture capital firm specializing in growth equity investments. The firm focuses on technology-enabled business services and SaaS companies, particularly those addressing critical pain points in sectors such as healthcare, education, and enterprise software. Sopris Capital leverages its long-term capital structure to provide patient and flexible funding. This approach allows them to support companies through various stages of growth. Their portfolio includes investments in companies like Clinetic, which focuses on accelerating clinical research through EHR data, and Medcase, a healthcare technology system provider. The firm’s leadership team includes founder and CEO Andrew Paul, along with partners like Mark Groner and Abinav Sankar, who bring extensive experience in private equity and venture capital. Sopris Capital aims to be a value-added partner, offering strategic guidance and leveraging their networks to help portfolio companies achieve their growth objectives.

Sora Ventures, founded in 2018 and headquartered in Taipei, Taiwan, is a leading venture capital firm in Asia focusing on blockchain and digital asset investments. The firm aims to bridge the gap between the blockchain community and the traditional business world by providing both capital and strategic support to innovative startups. Sora Ventures primarily invests in early to mid-stage companies, with a focus on Web3, Fintech, and cryptocurrency technologies. Their portfolio includes notable investments in blockchain-focused startups like Satflow and BRC20, with a total of 73 investments to date. Sora Ventures is known for being deeply involved in the ecosystem, offering more than just funding—they help companies scale and navigate the complexities of transitioning blockchain projects into real-world applications. Sora Ventures typically participates in Series B rounds, investing across the Asian and global markets. With a commitment to fostering innovation in the digital asset space, the firm plays a key role in the development of the blockchain sector, making it a prominent player in the industry. Co-investing with other top blockchain venture funds, Sora Ventures has positioned itself as a strategic partner for startups aiming to grow and expand in this rapidly evolving industry. The firm’s managing partner, Jason Fang, leads the investment team from their base in Taipei, further emphasizing their strong regional focus while maintaining a global investment outlook.

Sound Media Ventures is a venture capital firm based in Atlanta, Georgia, that specializes in early-stage investments at the intersection of media, technology, and entertainment. Founded by Shachar Oren, the firm focuses on disruptive technologies that are transforming how media is created, distributed, and monetized. Their investments span various sectors, including digital media, music, e-sports, gaming, and blockchain technology. The firm typically invests in Seed and Series A rounds, with an average investment size of around $3 million. Sound Media Ventures seeks out companies that leverage cutting-edge technologies such as AI, blockchain, and VR to push the boundaries of media and entertainment. Notable investments include Unstoppable Domains, Boomy, and Audience Republic. The firm is also involved in backing innovative startups like Loupe, a digital art platform featured on Samsung Smart TVs, and Overplay, a game development tool that appeared on Shark Tank. The team at Sound Media Ventures provides more than just financial backing—they are known for their hands-on approach, offering strategic guidance and industry connections to help their portfolio companies thrive. Their deep industry expertise in music, gaming, and media makes them a valuable partner for entrepreneurs looking to scale their businesses globally. Sound Media Ventures is committed to fostering innovation in media by supporting ventures that have the potential to reshape the industry for years to come.

Sound Ventures, co-founded by Ashton Kutcher and Guy Oseary, is a Los Angeles-based venture capital firm specializing in early-stage investments in transformative technologies. The firm recently closed its $240 million AI fund, aiming to back pioneering companies in the artificial intelligence space, such as OpenAI, Anthropic, and StabilityAI. Sound Ventures' investment strategy focuses on identifying and supporting exceptional founders developing technologies with significant societal impact. Their portfolio includes high-profile companies like Airbnb, Uber, Flexport, and GitLab, reflecting their broad investment scope across industries. The firm leverages its deep expertise in both technology and entertainment to provide strategic support and industry connections to its portfolio companies. Led by General Partners Effie Epstein, Ashton Kutcher, and Guy Oseary, Sound Ventures manages over $1 billion in assets. They are known for their proactive approach in guiding startups from ideation through to scaling, emphasizing a strong partnership with founders throughout the process. For startups looking to engage with Sound Ventures, it's beneficial to demonstrate innovative AI applications or technologies that promise significant advancements and societal benefits. Reaching out with well-prepared presentations and leveraging networks can facilitate initial contact.

Source Ventures is a Paris-based micro-VC and early-stage investment club founded in 2021 by Martin Charpentier and Victor Mertz. The firm brands itself 'Doers backing doers' and writes tickets of 100,000 euros or more at pre-seed and seed stages. Martin Charpentier is an experienced product designer and founder of the product design studio Source; Victor Mertz is a marketer, ex-CMO at PayFit and Lemonway, and founder of Offit. The firm's value proposition is operational: alongside capital, Source Ventures offers founders a curated community of product designers, engineers, entrepreneurs, and marketers who serve as sparring partners on product, technology, and go-to-market. The portfolio is France-heavy at approximately 79% French companies and spans roughly 32 disclosed investments across SaaS, fintech, edtech, gaming, new space, proptech, consumer, and Web3. Named portfolio companies include Finary (personal finance, YC W21), Amo, Loft Orbital (new space), Najar (B2B SaaS), Kombo (travel), Jimo (product marketing), and Mangas.io (entertainment, where Source participated with a 120,000 euro check in the 1.9 million euro seed round). Three 2025 YC companies are among recent additions: Lucis (YC X25, personal health), Excellence AI (YC W25, AI tutoring), and Stairling (vertical OS for private drivers). The most recent disclosed investment is Lucis Life in December 2025. Source Ventures occupies a specific niche as a product-and-design-operator fund in a market where most Paris-based micro-VCs have a financial or business-building orientation. The founders' hands-on product expertise makes the firm an attractive partner for early technical founders who need design and go-to-market thinking as much as they need capital.

South Park Commons (SPC), founded in 2016 and based in San Francisco, is a venture capital firm and community focused on supporting talented technologists, builders, and domain experts. SPC invests primarily in pre-seed and seed-stage companies across a range of sectors, including AI, machine learning, fintech, healthcare, and SaaS. Notable investments by SPC include Pilot, a financial services company founded by SPC members Waseem Daher and Jeff Arnold, which became SPC's first unicorn. Another significant investment is Render, a cloud platform for developers founded by Anurag Goel, an SPC member and former Stripe employee. Additionally, SPC has backed Unit21, a fintech security startup, and Orb, a company revolutionizing internet billing processes. SPC's approach combines financial investment with a strong community ethos, offering operational expertise and mentorship to help founders achieve their vision. This community-driven model has produced successful exits like Admin AI and QueryAI.

Spark Capital is a prominent venture capital firm with a focus on investing in groundbreaking companies across sectors like consumer internet, media, software, and fintech. Founded in 2005, the firm has backed high-profile startups such as Twitter, Discord, and Cruise, leading early-stage rounds that propelled these companies to massive success. Spark’s portfolio also includes Postmates, which was acquired by Uber, and Harmonix, known for the popular "Rock Band" game franchise. The firm typically invests across all stages, from seed to growth, with a particular focus on companies that aim to disrupt existing markets. Spark's team members, such as co-founder Bijan Sabet, emphasize investing in founders who take big chances and challenge the status quo. The firm is highly selective, backing visionary entrepreneurs with innovative products that have the potential to reshape industries​. Geographically, Spark’s investments span the globe, with a presence in key markets like the U.S. and Europe. Their flexible and founder-first approach has positioned them as trusted partners for startups like Wayfair and Instawork.

SparkLabs Global Ventures is a seed-stage venture capital fund founded in 2013, focusing on early-stage investments in companies worldwide. The firm is headquartered in Palo Alto, California, but its global footprint extends to key markets across Asia, Europe, and the U.S. SparkLabs backs innovative companies in industries such as SaaS, fintech, healthcare, gaming, IoT, education, and cybersecurity. The firm’s investment strategy centers on identifying exceptional entrepreneurs and helping them scale their businesses globally, offering not only financial support but also mentorship and access to a broad network of industry leaders. Some of the notable portfolio companies backed by SparkLabs Global Ventures include MangoPlate, WeRide, and Shift, demonstrating the firm's diverse reach across various sectors and geographies. SparkLabs emphasizes its unique approach to seed-stage investments by focusing on companies with the potential to define new categories and by supporting their growth into global markets. Led by a team of seasoned investors and operators, including co-founders Frank Meehan, Bernard Moon, and Jimmy Kim, SparkLabs Global Ventures combines deep industry expertise with a commitment to nurturing long-term relationships with its portfolio companies. Through their global accelerator programs and seed investments, SparkLabs has built a strong reputation for fostering innovation and helping startups achieve meaningful scale.

Sparx Ventures is a small, early-stage venture capital firm founded in 2011 and headquartered in Bangkok, Thailand. The firm finances and mentors promising, high-growth internet-related businesses in Southeast Asia, with a geographic focus on Thailand and Singapore. Typical deal sizes run from approximately $100,000 to $1 million and the firm deploys on a selective basis. Sparx takes an active approach to its investments, pairing capital with operational support including technology guidance, legal and accounting assistance, IT infrastructure, and business-plan optimization -- allowing it to play a hands-on role in helping founders bridge the gap between seed funding and a Series A round. Sparx Ventures has 4 disclosed portfolio companies across consumer, gaming, healthtech, and media sectors. Named holdings include Sandbox Global (consumer, Thailand), IDAP (gaming), and MaiTRx (medical devices and supplies, Thailand), with MaiTRx representing the most recent disclosed investment in January 2023. Most deals are concentrated in Thailand (2 companies) with one in Singapore. No new investments have been publicly announced in 2024 or 2025. Sparx operates with a lean team and without a formal public-facing website -- consistent with its selective, relationship-driven model. The firm's long-running presence in Bangkok's startup ecosystem since 2011 reflects a patient approach to Southeast Asian venture building in markets where deal cycles and founder development timelines differ substantially from Western VC conventions. While the public portfolio is limited in size, the firm's focus on operational hands-on support differentiates it from purely financial early-stage investors in the region.

Speedinvest, headquartered in Vienna, is a leading early-stage venture capital firm with more than €1 billion in assets under management. The firm focuses on pre-seed, seed, and early-stage investments across Europe. Speedinvest's portfolio includes notable companies like Bitpanda, Wefox, GoStudent, and TWAICE, reflecting their diverse investment focus spanning sectors such as fintech, deep tech, health tech, climate tech, and SaaS. Speedinvest operates six sector-focused teams: Deep Tech, Fintech, Health & TechBio, Climate Tech & Industrial Tech, Marketplaces & Consumer, and SaaS & Infrastructure. This specialized approach allows them to provide targeted support and resources to startups, helping them scale effectively​​. Since its inception in 2011, Speedinvest has made 497 investments and has seen 15 exits. Their investment strategy emphasizes hands-on support and leveraging their extensive network of industry experts, founders, and operational partners to foster the growth of their portfolio companies. Some recent investments include startups like Sylvera, Liefergrün, and Seqera Labs, all of which are making significant strides in their respective fields.

SpeedUp Venture Capital Group, founded in 2009 and headquartered in Poznan, Poland, is a venture capital firm specializing in seed, Series A, and early-stage investments. The firm focuses on sectors such as consumer internet, fintech, martech, adtech, electromobility, Industry 4.0, medtech, IoT, machine learning, and picture recognition. SpeedUp Venture Capital Group's portfolio includes 111 investments, with notable companies such as LiveCall, ZenCard, and UsabilityTools. The firm has achieved 61 exits, including companies like LiveCall and Transparent Data. Recent investments include CYCLE, a last-mile logistics company using e-bikes, and Partory, a technology startup based in Poland. The firm's leadership team includes Managing Partner and CEO Monika Synoradzka, and co-founder Arkadiusz Piechocki. They provide strategic support and resources to help portfolio companies scale effectively. SpeedUp Venture Capital Group primarily invests in Central and Eastern Europe, aiming to back enterprises with global aspirations by leveraging innovative solutions.

Spintop Ventures is a pan-Nordic early-stage software venture capital firm founded in 2009 by Mats Johansson, Erik Wenngren, Finn Persson, and Ari Korhonen, and headquartered in Stockholm. Branding itself as 'built by operators, for founders,' Spintop invests at seed and early stages in software-based technology companies that drive productivity, strengthen digital infrastructure, or accelerate the circular economy -- spanning SaaS, B2B, fintech, gaming, IoT and telecom, and deep tech. The firm leads rounds with typical entry tickets of 500,000 euros to 2.5 million euros and maintains substantial follow-on capacity. The 15-person team includes 5 Partners and 2 Principals, and in August 2025 the firm formally opened a permanent Copenhagen office led by Principal Jasenko Hadzic, completing its four-market Nordic footprint across Sweden, Finland, Norway, and Denmark. Spintop has raised four funds with Fund IV reaching roughly 188 million euros (approximately SEK 2 billion), with additional European Investment Fund and Saminvest support; the firm has approximately 180 million euros of AUM with Fund V in preparation. The LP base includes the European Investment Fund, Saminvest, Nordic family offices, and a network of 50-plus entrepreneurs and executives. Across 53 disclosed investments the firm has produced 4 IPOs and 8 acquisitions. Exits include Small Giant Games, MariaDB, Donkey Republic, Sana Labs, Consigli, and Crosser Technologies, which was acquired by Aveva in December 2025 -- the most recent disclosed exit. Seven new investments were made through November 2025, including leading the $2.3 million seed round in Wewillwrite alongside Skyfall Ventures. Spintop's operator-first identity translates into a partnership model where each portfolio company receives meaningful hands-on involvement from a team that has built and scaled software businesses, rather than capital and periodic board attendance alone.

Spiral Ventures is a venture capital firm headquartered in Singapore, with a focus on investing in early-stage startups across Southeast Asia and India. The firm, which was founded in 2017 after rebranding from IMJ Investment Partners, targets sectors such as fintech, logistics, artificial intelligence, healthcare, and the sharing economy. Their investments prioritize companies that address social needs and drive innovation in rapidly growing markets like Southeast Asia and India. Notable investments include PolicyStreet, a fintech company advancing inclusive insurance in Southeast Asia, SwipeRx, which connects pharmacies across Southeast Asia, and Dagangan, a digital FMCG distribution platform in Indonesia. Spiral Ventures offers more than just capital; they foster collaboration between startups and larger corporations, providing market access and strategic guidance to help scale their portfolio companies​. With a diverse team spanning Singapore, Indonesia, Japan, and India, Spiral Ventures is well-positioned to tap into local markets and support companies in navigating these dynamic ecosystems. Their mission is to invest in startups that can deliver both financial returns and significant social impact, aligning with the exponential growth expected in the region​.

Starta VC, based in New York, is an early-stage venture capital fund and accelerator focused on supporting international startups. Founded in 2015, Starta VC has a robust portfolio, investing primarily in technology sectors including enterprise applications, high tech, consumer products, AI, and vertical SaaS. Notable investments from Starta VC include Petal, a fintech company offering credit cards to underserved populations; ClassTag, a parent-teacher communication platform; and FriendlyData, a startup that simplifies data access using natural language processing. These companies highlight Starta VC's commitment to backing innovative solutions with significant market potential.

Startup Wise Guys is a prominent accelerator and early-stage venture capital firm based in Tallinn, Estonia. Since its founding in 2012, it has invested in over 440 startups, focusing on underserved markets primarily in Europe, Africa, and the CIS countries. The firm is renowned for its mentorship-driven accelerator programs, which span various verticals including SaaS, fintech, cybersecurity, sustainability, and web3​. The firm's accelerator programs, which typically last five months, provide early-stage startups with seed capital, office space, and access to a global network of mentors and investors. The programs are designed to help startups scale quickly and achieve substantial monthly recurring revenue. Startup Wise Guys has a strong track record, boasting 15 successful exits, including notable companies like VitalFields, StepShot, and VOCHI. Additionally, their portfolio companies have collectively raised over €461 million in follow-on funding​. The firm's latest initiatives include raising up to €52.5 million across three new funds: the Cyber Fund I, the Challenger Fund II, and the Opportunity Fund II. These funds aim to support startups in cybersecurity, fintech, and other high-potential sectors.

StartX, established in 2011 by Stanford alum Cameron Teitelman, is a non-profit startup accelerator and founder community affiliated with Stanford University. It operates with a unique zero-equity model, providing extensive support and resources to entrepreneurs without taking any ownership in their companies. This model fosters an open and collaborative environment where founders can freely share challenges and seek mentorship. StartX focuses on a diverse range of sectors, welcoming companies at various stages of development. Their community includes over 1,600 founders and 75 tenured Stanford professors, with notable alumni such as Lime, Lucira Health, and Branch Metrics. Companies in the StartX program are significantly more likely to reach valuations of $100 million or more, with 18 companies achieving unicorn status. The accelerator is also home to StartX Med, which specifically supports medical and biotech startups, leveraging partnerships with Stanford Health Care and access to specialized lab facilities. StartX Med has launched over 200 companies, with a remarkable 91% demonstrating commercial viability. Located in Stanford Research Park, StartX benefits from proximity to Silicon Valley's vibrant ecosystem, including investors on Sand Hill Road and leading legal firms, providing ample networking and growth opportunities for its startups​.

Steamboat Ventures is the venture capital arm of The Walt Disney Company, formed in September 2000 and named after the pioneering Mickey Mouse short 'Steamboat Willie.' Headquartered in Glendale, California, with offices in Shanghai and Hong Kong, the firm invests in early- through growth-stage companies at the intersection of technology, media and consumer, with particular emphasis on digital video, gaming and advertising, areas of strategic importance to Disney's digital ambitions. Typical checks run from $2 million to $15 million, with a maximum of $20 million in any single company, and the firm leans on Disney's resources to add value beyond capital while acting as a lead investor. Across its history Steamboat has made roughly 57 unique-company investments with a strong exit record of 8 IPOs and over 20 acquisitions, including GoPro, which went public; FreeWheel, acquired by Comcast in 2014; FunPlus, acquired in 2015; and Playdom, acquired by Disney for over $750 million in 2010. Its most recent recorded investment was Faire in October 2020. Founder and Managing Partner John Ball brings over 20 years of media, entertainment and technology investing experience, with prior board seats at GoPro, Quigo (acquired by AOL), Iridigm (acquired by Qualcomm), Fastclick and Pure Digital (acquired by Cisco). General Partner Perry Chui leads the Shanghai office, and Liping Fan serves as Administrative Partner and CFO. The firm pairs institutional venture discipline with the strategic reach of one of the world's largest media companies.

Sterling.VC, founded in 2014 and based in New York, is a venture capital firm primarily focused on investments in sports, media, esports, and real estate. Backed by Sterling Equities, the owners of the New York Mets and the regional sports network SNY, the firm leverages its deep roots in sports and entertainment to support innovative startups. Sterling.VC actively invests in early-stage companies across various sectors, including PropTech, FinTech, SaaS, and the creator economy. Notable investments in Sterling.VC’s portfolio include The Sandbox, an NFT-based metaverse game that has achieved unicorn status, as well as other tech-driven companies like Recycle Track Systems and Tappp. The firm is committed to fostering companies at the Pre-Seed, Seed, and Series A stages, helping them scale through strategic partnerships and industry expertise. Sterling.VC is led by a team of experienced investors, including partners like Farzam Kamel, Jeff Wilpon, and Rohit Gupta. Their approach emphasizes nurturing long-term growth in companies that are transforming industries through digital innovation and technological advancements. By combining capital with strategic guidance, Sterling.VC aims to drive impactful change across the sports, media, and tech landscapes.

Storm Ventures is a venture capital firm specializing in early-stage investments in B2B software startups. With over 23 years of experience, Storm Ventures has a distinguished portfolio that includes companies such as Marketo, MobileIron, and Talkdesk. The firm focuses on sectors like SaaS, enterprise infrastructure, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence, helping startups navigate from inception to becoming industry leaders. Based in Silicon Valley, Storm Ventures boasts a global investment team with additional presence in South Korea and Germany. The firm's strategy is centered on supporting startups through critical growth phases, providing resources to unlock growth and achieve product-market fit. They prefer startups with happy customers, innovative software, and a strong team. Storm Ventures often leads funding rounds, bringing in-depth expertise and a hands-on approach to their investments. Key team members include Managing Directors Ryan Floyd, Alex Mendez, and Tae Hea Nahm, who bring extensive experience in scaling B2B companies. The firm’s methodology involves working closely with founders, providing not only capital but also strategic guidance and operational support to drive growth and success.