Sector
Lifestyle VC Funds
Venture capital funds investing in lifestyle brands, personal care, home, and consumer lifestyle startups.
Thursday Ventures is a venture capital firm based in Mill Valley, California, founded in 2017. The firm specializes in early-stage investments, particularly in the Pre-Seed, Seed, and Series A stages. They focus on transformative technologies in sectors such as frontier tech, deep tech, biotech, clean technologies, enterprise applications, and health tech. Thursday Ventures typically deploys between $500,000 and $1 million per investment, partnering with exceptional entrepreneurs from the inception of their companies. Their portfolio includes notable investments in companies like Whoop, Formant, and Brainchain.AI. The firm has been instrumental in the growth of these companies, providing not just capital but also strategic support and talent acquisition services. The firm has made 25 investments and has a strong track record with two unicorns in their portfolio. Their investment strategy is geared towards industries capable of significant market disruption and growth potential, aiming for outcomes of 100x to 1000x returns. The leadership team includes key figures such as Andrew Schmidt, Eric Quinn, and Ryan McKillen, who bring extensive experience from backgrounds in science, engineering, and operations at companies like Uber and Neuralink.
Tiger Global Management, founded in 2001 by Chase Coleman III, is a leading investment firm that focuses on internet, software, consumer, and financial technology companies. The firm has made significant investments in some of the most notable high-growth companies globally. Among its prominent investments are Alibaba, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Spotify. More recent investments include companies like OpenAI, Roblox, Square, and SentinelOne. Tiger Global's investment strategy is characterized by its aggressive approach to deal-making, often moving quickly to close deals and providing substantial funding to its portfolio companies. This strategy has helped the firm build a diverse portfolio, which includes a significant number of unicorns and high-profile public companies. The firm has also been involved in substantial funding rounds for tech startups, such as OpenAI's $11.3 billion funding round, which has significantly impacted the AI industry. Their ability to identify and support innovative companies early has been a hallmark of their success.
Tiny Capital, founded by Andrew Wilkinson in 2014 and based in Victoria, British Columbia, is a venture capital firm and holding company known for its diverse portfolio and unique investment strategy. Tiny Capital invests primarily in profitable, internet-based companies and operates with a permanent capital base, allowing for long-term holdings and strategic growth without the pressure of traditional VC timelines. Notable investments and acquisitions by Tiny Capital include companies like Dribbble, Designer Fund, Superhuman, Buffer, and Waking Up. They focus on a range of industries, particularly in software, internet services, and technology, often acquiring majority stakes in these businesses. Tiny Capital aims to support and grow companies by providing operational expertise and resources while maintaining the founders' vision. This approach has earned them the reputation of being the "Berkshire Hathaway of the Internet" due to their strategic acquisitions and focus on building a diverse portfolio of high-quality companies.
Titan Capital is an early-stage venture capital firm founded by Kunal Bahl and Rohit Bansal, based in Gurugram, India. Since its inception in 2015, Titan Capital has built an extensive portfolio of over 300 companies across sectors such as fintech, SaaS, consumer tech, and healthtech. Known for their focus on seed investments, Titan Capital typically takes the lead in early funding rounds, with check sizes ranging from $300K to $500K. They are particularly sector-agnostic but emphasize investing in startups led by passionate and driven founders. Some of Titan Capital’s most notable investments include companies that have achieved unicorn status, such as Ola, Mamaearth, Razorpay, and Urban Company. Their strategy involves not just financial backing but also creating a community of founders who collaborate and support one another on hiring, technology decisions, and scaling their businesses. Titan Capital’s “gardening” approach to investing—patiently nurturing startups even through challenging phases—has helped many companies succeed, with several going public or being acquired. Their ability to make quick investment decisions and their commitment to supporting founders have made Titan Capital a key player in India’s startup ecosystem.
TMT Investments is a venture capital firm headquartered in Saint Helier, Jersey, focused on early-stage technology companies with high growth potential. Since its inception in 2010, the firm has developed a diverse portfolio across sectors such as SaaS, fintech, big data, cloud, e-commerce, and marketplaces. Some of its notable investments include Bolt, a leading European ride-hailing and delivery platform, and PandaDoc, a contract management software provider. TMT primarily targets fast-growing tech companies, often investing in startups that leverage digital innovation to disrupt traditional industries. They prefer companies that demonstrate scalable business models with global market ambitions. Their strategy is to invest early and work closely with companies through subsequent funding rounds, sometimes participating in follow-on investments as the company grows. The firm's geographic focus spans the US, UK, and Europe, with a flexible approach to opportunistic investments in emerging markets. With over 90 investments and more than 50 active portfolio companies, TMT typically writes initial checks in the range of $1-5 million, positioning itself as an active investor. Co-founded by Artyom Inyutin and Alexander Morgulchik, TMT’s leadership has a strong background in both tech and finance, helping to guide portfolio companies through growth challenges. The firm’s expertise and track record of successful exits, including high-profile companies like ShareThis and PandaDoc, make it a key player in the global tech investment scene.
Toba Capital, founded in 2012 and headquartered in Los Angeles and Newport Beach, CA, is an early-stage venture capital firm with $1.3 billion in assets under management. The firm focuses on investments in SaaS, IT infrastructure, and climate technology, aiming to support businesses capable of long-term growth and significant market impact. Toba Capital typically invests at the seed and Series A stages. Notable investments in their portfolio include companies like Alteryx, which went public, and Perimeter 81, a cybersecurity firm acquired by Check Point Software. Other significant portfolio companies are WSO2, a middleware solutions provider, and Scoutbee, a supplier discovery platform. Toba Capital has also seen successful exits with companies like Grow, acquired by Epicor, and NurseGrid, acquired by HealthStream. Toba Capital is distinguished by its commitment to philanthropy, donating 50% of its profits to charitable causes. The team, led by founders Brinkley Morse, Wilder Ramsey, and Vincent Smith, leverages extensive industry experience to support and guide their portfolio companies towards growth and success. For more detailed information on their portfolio and investment activities, you can visit Toba Capital's website or review their profiles on investment platforms like PitchBook and Crunchbase.
Torch Capital, founded in 2018 by Jonathan Keidan, is a New York-based venture capital firm renowned for investing in consumer technology companies. Their portfolio features notable startups such as Acorns, Sweetgreen, and Ro, emphasizing their focus on transformative consumer platforms and digital services. Torch Capital primarily invests in consumer-facing sectors including fintech, healthcare, and e-commerce, targeting solopreneurs and small businesses with innovative business tools. Geographically, Torch Capital concentrates its investments in the United States, with a significant presence in New York. The firm’s investment strategy centers on early-stage ventures, typically participating in seed and Series A rounds, with investment checks ranging from $1 million to $5 million. They prioritize partnering with visionary founders who can leverage technology to scale rapidly and create market leaders. The Torch Capital team comprises seasoned professionals with diverse backgrounds. Jonathan Keidan, the founder and managing partner, brings extensive experience from the intersection of media, technology, and entertainment. Other key team members include partners Sam Jones and Katie Reiner, as well as principal Chris Harper and CFO Anna Bitton.
Toy Ventures, established in 2019 and based in Berkeley, California, is an operator-led venture capital firm focused on early-stage investments. The firm is co-founded by Ramnik Arora and Lingtong Sun, both of whom bring significant experience in product development and data-driven growth strategies from their time at major tech companies like Facebook and Doordash. Toy Ventures primarily invests in sectors like blockchain, enterprise software, and fintech, targeting startups that leverage innovative technologies to disrupt traditional markets. Their portfolio includes companies like Mercury, a digital bank for startups, and Flexport, a platform for global logistics and freight forwarding. The firm is particularly known for backing companies that scale rapidly, and several of their portfolio companies, including Coinbase and Slack, have gone public. Toy Ventures typically participates in seed and Series A funding rounds, often leading these rounds and providing not just capital, but also strategic guidance rooted in their deep operational expertise. The firm has a strong track record of identifying high-potential startups early, which has led to multiple successful exits, including companies like Robinhood and Nextdoor. Despite their relatively small team, Toy Ventures has made a significant impact in the venture capital space by focusing on building strong, long-term partnerships with their portfolio companies. Their approach is hands-on, aiming to be the most valuable partner on the cap table for each startup they invest in.
The Rise Fund, established by TPG in partnership with Bono and Jeff Skoll in 2016, is a global impact investing firm with a commitment to achieving social and environmental impact alongside competitive financial returns. The fund focuses on sectors that address the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs), including education, energy, food and agriculture, financial services, healthcare, and technology. Notable investments by The Rise Fund include companies like C3.ai, a leading enterprise AI software provider; Form Energy, which is developing low-cost, long-duration energy storage solutions; and Benevity, a global leader in corporate purpose software. Other significant investments include Fourth Partner Energy, a provider of distributed solar energy solutions, and EverFi, an education technology company. The fund has successfully managed over $18 billion in assets, encompassing The Rise Funds, TPG Rise Climate, and the Evercare Health Fund. The Rise Fund has been instrumental in driving positive change, with notable exits such as C3 AI and DreamBox Learning, and impactful investments in companies like Enpal, a solar energy provider, and LiveKindly, a collective promoting plant-based food solutions. The Rise Fund is known for its rigorous impact measurement and management practices, ensuring that their investments deliver tangible social and environmental benefits. The team at The Rise Fund leverages their extensive network and resources to support the growth and success of their portfolio companies.
TQ Ventures is a venture capital firm based in New York City, founded in 2018 by Andrew Marks, Schuster Tanger, and Scooter Braun. The firm focuses on partnering with exceptional founders at the earliest stages, investing primarily in seed and Series A rounds. TQ Ventures has a diverse portfolio across various sectors, including consumer tech, fintech, healthcare, software, and gaming. The firm has backed over 40 companies in the United States, Europe, and Asia. Notable investments include Clubhouse, Kindbody, Liquid IV, and Noom. TQ Ventures aims to support innovative companies that have the potential to transform their respective industries. Andrew Marks, one of the co-founders, has extensive experience in investment, having previously worked at Freemark Partners and Blue Ridge Capital. His leadership, along with the expertise of his co-founders, positions TQ Ventures as a significant player in the venture capital landscape.
TRAC VC is an innovative venture capital firm based in San Francisco, known for its data-driven approach to identifying and investing in early-stage startups. The firm leverages collective intelligence, data analysis, and mathematical models to pinpoint future unicorns, generally participating in the 2nd or 3rd funding rounds of promising startups. TRAC VC's diverse portfolio includes notable investments such as GreenPark Sports, which enhances the experience of sports and esports fans; Laskie, a platform that matches job opportunities with remote candidates; and Yumi, a provider of freshly made organic baby food. Other significant investments include Redbird, a no-code data analytics platform, and Outer, a company specializing in innovative outdoor furniture. Founded in 2019 by Fredrick Campbell and Joseph Aaron, TRAC VC has made a total of 95 investments, with a recent focus on industries such as healthcare technology, business productivity software, and multimedia design software. They are particularly known for their ability to move quickly and make significant impacts through strategic support and introductions within their extensive network. The firm's investment strategy is characterized by a focus on scalable growth and market disruption, with an average investment round size of $4 million. TRAC VC's approach emphasizes the importance of data and collective intelligence in making informed investment decisions, ensuring that their portfolio companies have strong foundations and high potential for success.
Trail Post Ventures is a consumer-focused venture capital firm founded in 2017 and based in Sausalito, California. The firm is dedicated to partnering with the next generation of exceptional consumer brands, concentrating on sectors such as specialty retail, restaurants, food products, beverages, beauty and personal care. Trail Post typically invests in US companies that are already generating roughly $1 to $30 million in annual revenue and have demonstrated proof of concept, backing brands it believes have the potential to disrupt their categories. Initial cheques generally fall between about $500,000 and $3 million, with some sources citing a $250,000 to $2 million initial range, and additional capital is reserved for follow-on investment; the firm participates across Seed, Series A and Series B financing rounds, typically as a co-investor. Rather than acting as a passive investor, Trail Post takes an active, hands-on approach, leveraging an industry network and advisors with years of experience across finance, marketing and operations to help build strong brands and prepare businesses for the next stage of growth. The firm was co-founded by Nick Mindel and Will Schmitt. Mindel previously worked on the consumer investment banking team at Piper Jaffray, focusing on restaurant and food and beverage transactions, while Schmitt was a Principal at consumer growth equity firm Beechwood Capital. Notable portfolio companies include Naadam Cashmere, Rumpl, JuneShine, Sweetfin and Nutpods. By focusing exclusively on revenue-generating consumer brands and pairing capital with operating and marketing expertise, Trail Post Ventures backs the next generation of category-disrupting consumer companies.
Trajectory Ventures is a venture capital firm in NYC that advances disruptive tech-savvy ventures across various funding stages.
Tribe Capital, established in 2018, is a venture capital firm based in San Francisco, California. The firm manages over $1.6 billion in assets, focusing on investments from seed to growth stages across various sectors, including technology and cryptocurrency. Tribe Capital employs a data-driven approach to identify and amplify early-stage product-market fit, aiming to invest in companies with the potential to become category leaders. Founded by Arjun Sethi, Jonathan Hsu, and Ted Maidenberg, Tribe Capital leverages the extensive experience of its founders, who have previously built and invested in notable companies like Facebook, Gusto, and Slack. The firm emphasizes a bottom-up investment strategy, aiming to be the best capital allocators by iterating rapidly and maintaining a strong focus on product-market fit. Tribe Capital's portfolio includes companies such as Carta, Relativity Space, Shiprocket, Kraken, and Bolt. The firm also has a strong presence in the cryptocurrency market, investing in projects like Berachain, Akash, and Cyberconnect.
Tribeca Venture Partners (TVP), established in 2011 and headquartered in New York City, is an early-stage venture capital firm that focuses on investing in emerging technologies and disruptive business models. The firm primarily invests in sectors such as SaaS, marketplaces, fintech, and martech, emphasizing companies that have the potential to create or transform large markets. TVP's portfolio includes notable investments like ACV Auctions, an online wholesale automotive auction platform that went public, and AlphaSense, an AI-driven market intelligence platform valued at $2.5 billion. Other significant investments include RealBlocks, a blockchain-based platform for real estate transactions, and Honey, a browser extension that finds discount codes for online shoppers, which was acquired by PayPal. The firm typically leads Series A rounds with initial investments ranging from $1 to $6 million and follows on through Series B. TVP's investment approach is heavily focused on the New York tech ecosystem, leveraging their extensive local network and deep industry expertise to support portfolio companies. They pride themselves on being deeply involved and committed partners, providing not just capital but also strategic guidance and operational support to help founders navigate challenges and scale their businesses effectively.
TRIREC is a Singapore-based venture capital firm that focuses on decarbonization investments, aiming to combat climate change through technology-driven solutions. Founded in 2015 by Melvyn Yeo and Lawrence Wu, the firm has grown into a key player in climate-focused venture capital, with around $150 million in assets under management. TRIREC targets early-stage companies that are leading the way in decarbonization across five core sectors: food and agriculture, mobility, buildings, industries, and energy. The firm's investment strategy is focused on supporting breakthrough technologies that either reduce, prevent, or sequester greenhouse gas emissions. They have backed over 20 companies globally, including notable startups like Aether Diamonds (which creates diamonds from carbon in the air), Green Li-ion (pioneering battery rejuvenation), and Xpansiv (a global exchange for ESG commodities). TRIREC primarily invests in Pre-Series A to Series B rounds and tends to take a minority stake in their portfolio companies, fostering long-term partnerships. They emphasize both financial returns and positive environmental impact, positioning themselves as leaders in the rapidly expanding decarbonization sector.
Triventures is a global, early-stage venture capital firm founded in 2010, with offices in Israel and Silicon Valley. The firm invests in innovative companies that converge technology and healthcare to solve critical industry challenges. Triventures manages $200 million in assets and reviews over 700 companies annually, focusing on sectors such as data-driven healthcare, tech-health convergence, and disruptive medical devices. The Triventures team, led by co-founders Michal Geva and Dr. Peter Fitzgerald, has extensive experience in entrepreneurship and investment, having guided over 30 companies to successful exits. They emphasize partnerships with entrepreneurs to build value-creating companies that reshape healthcare through data-driven solutions and access to significant health data assets, particularly through their collaboration with Sheba Medical Center. Notable investments include companies like Ginkgo Bioworks, Atomwise, and Verge Genomics, highlighting their focus on pioneering breakthroughs in genomics, synthetic biology, and advanced diagnostics.
True Incube is Thailand’s leading startup incubator and accelerator, backed by True Corporation and CP Group. Launched in 2013, True Incube focuses on investing in early-stage startups across Southeast Asia, with a strong emphasis on technologies that enhance True's core competencies in telecom and related industries. Its investment sectors include smart industries, AI, automation, fintech, health tech, and digital B2B/B2C solutions. The incubator supports startups through direct investments, strategic partnerships, and mentorship, helping them scale regionally. True Incube also offers a robust accelerator program that provides resources such as networking, funding, and access to True's ecosystem of technology and infrastructure. Notable investments include QueQ, Credit OK, and Peak, among others. These investments aim to integrate innovative technologies into Thailand's digital ecosystem and beyond. With a focus on scalable, capital-efficient businesses, True Incube is a key player in Southeast Asia’s tech and startup scene, driving innovation in industries such as IoT, digital healthcare, and smart cities.
True Ventures is a distinguished venture capital firm that has been a significant player in early-stage investments since its inception in 2005. The firm has invested $3.8 billion across over 350 startups, fostering innovation in sectors such as personal wellness, robotics, therapeutics, climate technologies, and ocean exploration. Notable investments from True Ventures include companies like Peloton, Fitbit, Blue Bottle Coffee, Ring, and Sweetgreen. These investments showcase their ability to identify and support high-growth startups across various industries. The firm typically invests in the seed and Series A stages, providing initial funding and reserving capital for follow-on investments. Geographically, True Ventures focuses primarily on the United States, with headquarters in Palo Alto and additional offices in San Francisco. Their investment strategy emphasizes partnering with visionary founders who are tackling significant problems and bringing innovative solutions to market. True Ventures aims to take a collaborative approach, working closely with entrepreneurs to guide their growth and development. The firm is led by a seasoned team of partners including Jon Callaghan, Tony Conrad, and Om Malik, who bring deep expertise and a strong track record in venture capital. Founders looking to connect with True Ventures should demonstrate a clear vision and a compelling value proposition that aligns with the firm’s focus on transformative technologies and impactful solutions. True Ventures is renowned for its active involvement in the startup ecosystem, often leading investment rounds and providing substantial strategic support to its portfolio companies, helping them navigate the complexities of scaling their businesses.
True Wealth Ventures is an Austin-based venture capital firm, co-founded by Sara Brand and Kerry Rupp in 2015. The firm focuses exclusively on early-stage investments in women-led startups, particularly those aiming to improve environmental and human health. Their portfolio includes companies like BrainCheck and Flourish, showcasing their commitment to healthcare and sustainable innovations. True Wealth Ventures is driven by the belief that women-led companies outperform and deserve greater support, especially given that women control a growing portion of U.S. assets yet remain underrepresented in venture capital. Their investments target companies with strong female leadership, requiring that at least one woman in a key decision-making role is involved. The firm has raised over $60 million across two funds, with a typical check size between $200,000 and $500,000. True Wealth Ventures stands out for its active involvement, offering deep operational support through its extensive network of female investors and advisors, creating a "virtuous circle" of impact investment.
Trust Ventures is a venture capital firm based in Austin, Texas, that focuses on investing in startups tackling significant societal challenges in highly regulated industries. Founded in 2018, the firm has raised multiple funds, with its third and largest fund closing at $200 million. Trust Ventures primarily targets sectors such as clean energy, affordable housing, and quality healthcare, aiming to help startups navigate and overcome policy barriers that hinder innovation. The firm’s investment strategy is distinctive; it provides not just capital but also strategic guidance to help startups address regulatory challenges. This hands-on approach includes building relationships, developing strategies, and advocating for policy changes to level the playing field against larger, incumbent companies. Trust Ventures looks for startups with disruptive technologies that have the potential to solve pressing societal problems but are often stymied by outdated policies. Key team members include co-founders Salen Churi, who has a background in law and academia, and Brian Tochman, a seasoned entrepreneur and former private equity executive. Together, they leverage their expertise to support portfolio companies in achieving growth and navigating complex regulatory landscapes. Notable investments from Trust Ventures include companies like Sana Benefits, ICON, and Oklo, all of which are pioneering in their respective fields. The firm is dedicated to being an active partner, ensuring that their portfolio companies can reach their full potential and bring meaningful solutions to market.
TSI Investment Ltd., based in Dubai, is a diversified investment group specializing in providing financial, operational, and managerial support to its subsidiaries across a wide range of industries, including construction, real estate, energy, and F&B. TSI focuses on identifying and nurturing investment opportunities, helping companies grow into industry leaders by leveraging synergies between its portfolio businesses. The company's foundation lies in its successful ventures in Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) services, especially in cooling, energy systems, and IT security. Over time, TSI has expanded its portfolio to include trading and strategic partnerships, continuously seeking new opportunities to strengthen its holdings. One of TSI’s standout projects is its involvement with Cylingas, a fabrication company specializing in oil and gas storage solutions, further demonstrating its extensive expertise in industrial sectors. Additionally, TSI is engaged in international ventures, investing in cutting-edge sectors such as IT infrastructure and sustainable energy. With a strategic focus on growth and scalability, TSI remains committed to its vision of developing companies that not only meet but exceed stakeholder expectations.
TSVC, formerly known as TEEC Angel Fund, is a venture capital firm that specializes in deep technology investments. Founded in 2012, TSVC focuses on early-stage startups that leverage breakthroughs in science and engineering. The firm is based in Silicon Valley and has a strong track record of identifying and nurturing innovative companies. TSVC's portfolio includes notable investments in companies such as Quanergy Systems, a leading provider of LiDAR sensors and smart sensing solutions; Jasper Therapeutics, which develops novel therapies for hematologic disorders; and Valant, a behavioral health software company. The firm has been instrumental in helping these companies scale and achieve significant market success. The firm's investment strategy is centered on high-impact verticals, including enterprise SaaS, fintech, techbio, consumer tech, and crypto. TSVC aims to support founders with strategic counsel and hands-on expertise in areas like software engineering, data science, and quantitative modeling. This approach has enabled TSVC to build a diverse and robust portfolio of companies that are fundamentally transforming traditional industries. With over 100 companies in its portfolio, TSVC continues to drive innovation and support the next generation of entrepreneurs. The firm’s commitment to leveraging data science and computing advances positions it as a key player in the venture capital landscape, dedicated to fostering groundbreaking technologies and solutions.
TT Capital Partners is a healthcare-focused private equity firm based in Bloomington, Minnesota. Founded in 2011, TTCP invests in innovative healthcare technology and services companies with the potential to become market leaders. Their investment strategy spans various healthcare sectors, including healthcare IT, technology-enabled services, and clinical services. Notable investments in TTCP’s portfolio include Cantata Health Solutions, CareConnectMD, and DarioHealth. Cantata Health Solutions provides integrated EHR, RCM, and clinical technology solutions for behavioral health and acute care providers. CareConnectMD focuses on primary care and care coordination for high-needs Medicare populations. DarioHealth offers a digital therapeutics platform for managing chronic conditions. TTCP has a team of over 20 professionals with extensive experience in healthcare investing and operations. This expertise allows them to provide strategic insights and support to their portfolio companies, driving growth and innovation in the healthcare industry. Recent strategic moves include investments in Pyx Health, addressing loneliness and social isolation, and the merger of Revel and NovuHealth to form Icario, a health action platform.
Tuesday Capital, formerly known as CrunchFund, is a dynamic venture capital firm that backs early-stage startups. Notable investments include GitLab, Kueski, AirTable, Human Interest, and DigitalOcean. With a focus on technology, health tech, and high-growth sectors, Tuesday Capital maintains a sector-agnostic approach, giving them a broad investment landscape. Geographically, they are based in Austin and San Francisco but invest globally, supporting founders wherever they are. Their strategy revolves around a hands-on approach, actively helping startups with everything from strategic guidance to PR and marketing. Typically investing in seed rounds, Tuesday Capital writes checks averaging $5M and often co-invests with other VCs. They prefer to be approached through their extensive network or via a compelling pitch that clearly aligns with their vision. Co-founders Patrick Gallagher and Michael Arrington lead the team with significant expertise and a proven track record. Gallagher, based in Austin, brings over two decades of venture experience, previously working with VantagePoint and Morgan Stanley. Arrington, located in Broomfield, adds media and tech industry insights to the firm’s operations. Tuesday Capital’s portfolio boasts several unicorns, including Human Interest, Forward, and Zipline. Their active involvement in the startup ecosystem and commitment to founder success make them a notable partner in the venture capital landscape
Tusk Venture Partners is a New York-based venture capital firm that focuses on early-stage startups navigating highly regulated markets. Founded in 2015 by Bradley Tusk and Jordan Nof, the firm brings a unique edge with its deep expertise in political strategy and regulatory risk, allowing them to guide companies through complex legal landscapes. Their portfolio boasts high-profile investments in companies like Bird, Alto Pharmacy, Ro, and Calm, covering sectors such as digital health, fintech, transportation, and enterprise software. Tusk primarily targets startups at the pre-seed, seed, and Series A stages, often writing checks between $750K and $2M. They are well-known for backing disruptive companies that face regulatory hurdles, such as those in healthcare, insurance, and mobility. Recent exits include Lemonade, Coinbase, and FanDuel, reflecting the firm's strength in taking companies from early-stage to successful outcomes. Tusk's leadership leverages their political consulting background to give founders not just capital but also access to regulatory strategy, making them a sought-after partner for companies in complex industries. Entrepreneurs should approach Tusk with a clear understanding of their regulatory challenges and a focus on markets requiring specialized expertise.
Twin Path Ventures is a dynamic venture capital firm based in London, specializing in early-stage investments across deep-tech and AI-driven sectors. Founded in 2023, the firm focuses on backing visionary startups that are poised to disrupt industries such as healthcare, fintech, and enterprise software. Twin Path typically invests in pre-seed and seed-stage companies, with an average ticket size of £500,000. They lead most of the rounds they participate in but also co-invest alongside other strategically aligned VCs. Their fund structure is designed to optimize tax efficiency, blending SEIS, EIS, and non-tax funds, which allows them to offer investors tax-free capital growth through a diverse portfolio of tech-driven businesses. Notable investments include Causa Tech, a leader in AI-driven productivity software, and FinCrime Dynamics, which focuses on advanced fraud detection and prevention software. Twin Path operates with a hands-on approach, providing strategic guidance and operational expertise to help portfolio companies navigate growth challenges. The team is led by General Partner John Spindler, a seasoned investor with deep roots in the UK venture ecosystem, including his previous role as CEO of Capital Enterprise and co-founder of the London Co-Investment Fund. Katie Lockwood and Nick Slater, both partners, bring complementary expertise in bioscience, intellectual property, and deep-tech startups, creating a robust support network for the companies they back. Twin Path Ventures is gaining recognition in the UK, recently being named a finalist for the 2023 Seed VC of the Year at the UKBAA Angel Investment Awards.
Twine Ventures is a venture capital firm based in San Francisco, founded in 2021 by Leshika Samarasinghe. The firm focuses on early-stage investments in sectors like healthcare, climate tech, and financial empowerment, aiming to support mission-driven founders whose work ties purpose and profit. Twine invests primarily at the seed and Series A stages, offering check sizes ranging from $100,000 to $1 million. Their portfolio includes companies like Waltz Health, Rupa Health, and Alpha Grid, with a focus on leveraging technology such as AI and data science to drive improvements in healthcare and sustainability. Additionally, Twine is committed to diversity, with a strong emphasis on investing in ventures led by women and BIPOC founders. Twine operates with a hands-on approach, providing more than just capital by supporting founders with go-to-market strategies and scaling their companies through competitive fundraising.
Two Sigma Ventures, established in 2012 and based in New York, is a venture capital firm specializing in early-stage investments. The firm focuses on sectors such as artificial intelligence, data science, healthcare, biotechnology, and fintech. Notable investments include companies like Recursion Pharmaceuticals, GitLab, and Ripple. They have a portfolio of 113 companies and have achieved 25 successful exits. Two Sigma Ventures typically invests between $500,000 to $5 million, leveraging its expertise in data and technology from its parent company, Two Sigma Investments, to support innovative startups.
The UCL Technology Fund (UCLTF) is a venture capital fund established in 2016 to commercialize cutting-edge research originating from University College London (UCL). Managed in partnership with AlbionVC and UCL Business, the fund focuses on investing in intellectual property arising from UCL's research in life sciences, physical sciences, and engineering. UCLTF plays a pivotal role in taking groundbreaking technologies from early-stage proof of concept through to commercialization, either via licensing or by forming spinout companies. With an emphasis on life sciences, the fund supports pioneering projects in areas such as gene therapy, oncology, and advanced materials. Notable investments include Orchard Therapeutics, a spinout specializing in rare disease gene therapies, and Bloomsbury AI, which developed natural language processing technology before being acquired by Facebook in 2018. The fund's portfolio is diverse, encompassing companies tackling global challenges like clean energy through firms such as Carbon Re, which is focused on decarbonizing heavy industries. The fund’s mission is not only to support UCL's world-class academic research but also to deliver societal impact and substantial commercial returns. The first fund has seen impressive successes, including two Nasdaq IPOs and raising over £1 billion in external funding across its portfolio. Recently, UCLTF closed its second fund at £100 million, further strengthening its ability to back high-impact innovations in biotech, healthcare, and AI.
Ulu Ventures, based in Palo Alto, is a leading seed-stage venture capital firm with strong ties to Stanford and Silicon Valley. They focus on funding diverse entrepreneurial teams, particularly those led by women and minority founders. Ulu Ventures has made over 200 investments, with notable exits including Proterra, Taulia, and Blue River Technology. Their investment strategy is data-driven, aiming to reduce cognitive biases and systematically identify key drivers of risk and uncertainty. They invest in sectors such as enterprise IT, EdTech, FinTech, healthcare, and sustainability (Ulu Ventures). With an emphasis on diversity, 76% of their funded companies have diverse founders. The firm is co-founded by Miriam Rivera and Clint Korver, who bring extensive experience in entrepreneurship and venture capital. Ulu Ventures is recognized for its thoughtful and rigorous approach to venture funding, which has resulted in a portfolio that includes companies like Guild Education, Genesis Therapeutics, and Lex Machina
Uncommon Capital, founded in 2014, is a venture capital firm that focuses on early-stage investments from pre-seed to Series A rounds. The firm is based in San Francisco and has a strong emphasis on software companies, particularly in sectors like B2B SaaS, marketplaces, consumer non-social, developer tools, and fintech. Uncommon Capital has a diverse portfolio with notable investments in companies such as Razorpay, a leading payment processing solution provider; Talkdesk, a cloud-based contact center software; and Function of Beauty, an internet-first brand offering customized skincare and haircare products. The firm also boasts investments in emerging companies like Morf Health, a health tech startup, and Antares Industries, focusing on environmental technology. The firm is led by experienced partners, including Tikhon Bernstam, co-founder of Scribd and Parse, and Jamie Quint, a seasoned product growth practitioner who has consulted for companies like Twitch, Everlane, and Substack. Uncommon Capital distinguishes itself by providing hands-on operational support to its portfolio companies, helping them with product development, data infrastructure, marketing strategies, and engineering hiring.
Underdog Labs is a pre-seed venture capital firm based in Sebastopol, California, with a focus on supporting early-stage founders as they navigate the critical first milestones of their startups. Founded by Alex Chang and David Hehman in 2019, the firm specializes in working with passionate entrepreneurs who have promising ideas but need guidance and capital to turn these into scalable businesses. Underdog Labs targets very early-stage companies, often being the first institutional investors after initial angel rounds. The firm is industry-agnostic, but it has a strong focus on sectors like artificial intelligence, SaaS, fintech, health tech, and consumer products. With a hands-on approach, Underdog Labs provides not just capital but also strategic mentorship, leveraging the extensive entrepreneurial experience of its founders to help startups achieve product-market fit and scale effectively. The firm typically invests between $100K and $500K per company and has built a diverse portfolio of startups across various industries. Underdog Labs is particularly known for its commitment to backing underrepresented founders, further cementing its role as a key player in the early-stage venture ecosystem.
Underscore.VC, established in 2015, is a Boston-based venture capital firm dedicated to early-stage B2B software startups. With a strong emphasis on community, Underscore integrates a unique Core Community of experienced entrepreneurs and industry leaders who actively support portfolio companies. This approach ensures founders receive comprehensive guidance and resources tailored to their specific needs. Notable investments by Underscore.VC include companies such as Project44, Salsify, Slang, Soofa, and TetraScience, showcasing their focus on B2B fintech, vertical SaaS, and emerging technologies. The firm primarily invests in pre-seed and seed rounds, typically leading these rounds and committing substantial support beyond just financial backing. Their strategy is rooted in building strong, collaborative relationships with founders, emphasizing a partnership approach rather than just a financial transaction. They value transparency, long-term vision, and active involvement in the companies they support. This philosophy is reflected in their careful selection process and active participation in the growth and scaling of their investments. For startups looking to engage with Underscore.VC, it's beneficial to demonstrate a strong alignment with their community-driven values and a clear, innovative vision for their business model. Approaching them with a well-thought-out plan and readiness to leverage their extensive network can significantly enhance the chances of forming a successful partnership.
Union Labs, founded in 2018 and based in San Mateo, California, is a deep-tech venture capital firm focusing on pre-seed and seed-stage investments. Co-founded by Nate Williams and Chris Kim, Union Labs primarily invests in startups tackling big challenges across sectors like robotics, AI/ML, IoT, and smart infrastructure. The firm aims to solve complex global problems through innovative technology, often working directly with founders to de-risk the journey to product-market fit. Union Labs has made 28 investments, with notable companies like Pico MES, which develops factory operations software, and Urban Machine, focusing on forestry processing. The firm incubates many of its companies, having initially grown out of Kleiner Perkins with backing from Google Ventures, allowing it to offer both financial and hands-on operational support. This approach ensures that its startups benefit from Union Labs' extensive network and expertise. Union Labs is committed to advancing deep-tech solutions that contribute to a smarter, more connected world.
Union Square Ventures (USV), a venture capital firm based in New York City, focuses on investing in early-stage technology startups. Their investment philosophy is centered on finding companies at the edge of large markets being transformed by technological and societal pressures. USV looks for new behaviors and business models enabled by technology, rapid experimentation, and broadening access to resources and opportunities. USV’s portfolio includes a range of notable companies such as Twitter, Etsy, MongoDB, and Twilio. They have invested across various sectors including social media, marketplaces, developer tools, health, fintech, web3, and climate tech. Their approach involves maintaining relatively small fund sizes and collaborating closely as a team to make investment decisions and support portfolio companies.
E14 Fund is an MIT-affiliated venture capital firm focused on supporting deep-tech startups emerging from the MIT community. Established in 2013 and rooted in the MIT Media Lab, the fund specializes in companies that are addressing critical global challenges through breakthrough science and engineering. E14 Fund invests in early-stage startups, typically from pre-seed to Series A, with a focus on industries such as robotics, artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and synthetic biology. Some notable investments include Formlabs, a leader in 3D printing technology, and Overjet, a pioneer in AI-powered dental care solutions. The fund is more than just a capital provider; it acts as a strategic partner, helping founders transition from academic research to building scalable businesses. E14 leverages the vast MIT network to connect entrepreneurs with industry leaders, mentors, and technical resources that can help accelerate their growth. A significant portion of the firm’s profits is reinvested into MIT, highlighting its commitment to fostering long-term innovation within the university ecosystem. Led by managing partners Calvin Chin and Habib Haddad, E14 Fund works closely with founders to address both scientific and business challenges, providing hands-on support throughout their journey. The fund’s portfolio companies typically possess unique intellectual property and a clear path to market dominance, reflecting E14’s focus on ventures with transformative potential. By supporting startups from their earliest stages, E14 Fund plays a crucial role in translating groundbreaking MIT research into impactful, market-ready technologies.
Unpopular Ventures is a venture capital firm founded by Peter Livingston, focusing on early-stage tech startups that are often overlooked by mainstream investors. They have invested in over 300 startups globally, with a portfolio spanning various industries and regions. Notable investments include Jeeves, a global business banking platform, Farcana, a battle royale shooter game, and Foundation Devices, developers of Bitcoin-centric tools. The firm's strategy is to find and invest in unconventional opportunities that have the potential for significant impact and growth. They emphasize global investments, particularly in emerging markets, driven by Livingston's own experience living and working around the world. This global perspective allows them to identify and support startups that are off the beaten path but have strong growth potential. Unpopular Ventures operates both as a syndicate and a rolling fund on AngelList, providing flexible investment options to their backers. The firm's unique approach and diverse portfolio have made it a significant player in the venture capital landscape, despite its name.
Unshackled Ventures, founded in 2014 and headquartered in San Francisco, California, is a venture capital firm dedicated to supporting immigrant entrepreneurs. The firm focuses on early-stage investments, particularly in technology and innovation sectors. Unshackled Ventures aims to provide not only capital but also visa support, enabling immigrant founders to build successful companies in the U.S. Their investment portfolio includes a diverse array of companies. Notable investments include Lily AI, which uses AI to improve retail personalization, and Pod Foods, a B2B marketplace for food brands and retailers. Other significant companies in their portfolio are Plantible Foods, a sustainable food company, and Career Karma, a platform helping people find jobs through bootcamps. Unshackled Ventures has made a total of 86 investments and has seen 17 exits, highlighting their effectiveness in nurturing startups to maturity. Their approach involves investing at the very earliest stages, often at "day zero," to help founders navigate the complexities of building a business from the ground up. The team is led by co-founders Nitin Pachisia and Manan Mehta, who are committed to leveraging their own experiences as immigrants to support other immigrant founders. Their mission is to unlock the potential of these entrepreneurs by providing the necessary resources, guidance, and community support to achieve their visions.
Untapped Capital is a venture capital firm based in Bellevue, Washington, founded in 2020 by Jessica Jackley and Yohei Nakajima. The firm focuses on pre-seed investments, targeting unexpected and often overlooked founders who are pioneering the latest technologies to build a more abundant future. Untapped Capital operates as a generalist VC, meaning they do not limit themselves to specific industries but instead invest across a broad spectrum, with a particular interest in companies driving innovation in climate tech, healthcare, and productivity software. The firm is known for its hands-on approach, running itself much like a startup to better understand and support the challenges faced by the founders they back. Untapped Capital has made 36 investments to date, with notable companies in their portfolio including Covalent, a leader in climate tech, and Mars Materials, which focuses on sustainable environmental solutions. Their investment strategy is centered around early-stage companies, often being one of the first institutional investors to commit capital. The team at Untapped Capital leverages their deep expertise and network to provide strategic guidance, helping their portfolio companies scale effectively. They have also developed a reputation for integrating cutting-edge AI tools and methodologies to enhance the growth and development of the startups they support. This innovative approach has made Untapped Capital a distinctive player in the venture capital landscape, particularly in supporting founders who might otherwise be overlooked by traditional VCs.
Unusual Ventures is a seed-stage venture capital firm founded in 2018 by John Vrionis and Jyoti Bansal. They focus on providing hands-on support to early-stage startups in sectors like infrastructure software, SaaS, fintech, and consumer applications. Notable investments include Arctic Wolf Networks, Carta, Robinhood, Harness, and Vivun. Unusual Ventures differentiates itself by embedding experienced operators with startups, offering deep operational support in areas such as marketing, sales, and recruiting. This approach helps founders navigate the challenging early stages of their business, working closely to find product-market fit and build a strong foundation for future growth. Their engagement model is designed to provide comprehensive support, acting as interim executives to ensure startups have the resources they need to succeed. The firm also emphasizes diversity and social impact, partnering with institutions that are positive forces in education, healthcare, and the arts. This mission-driven approach ensures that the returns generated contribute to meaningful progress. With offices in Menlo Park, San Francisco, and Boston, Unusual Ventures has raised multiple funds, including their recent $485 million Fund III, bringing their total assets under management to over $1 billion. This commitment underscores their dedication to supporting seed-stage founders with unparalleled resources and expertise.
UOB Venture Management (UOBVM), a subsidiary of United Overseas Bank (UOB), was established in 1992 and focuses on venture capital and private equity investments, primarily in Southeast Asia, Greater China, and the United States. The firm targets growth-stage companies across various sectors, including healthcare, advanced manufacturing, consumer services, and digital economy ventures. UOBVM is known for integrating ESG principles and impact investing into its strategy, as demonstrated by its Asia Impact Investment Fund series. UOBVM has a significant portfolio with over 164 investments, and some notable exits include Gojek and Nanosys. They emphasize supporting businesses that contribute to sustainable development and innovation, particularly those improving livelihoods in the region. The firm manages several funds, including the ASEAN China Investment Fund and Asia Impact Investment Fund II, which raised over $60 million for initiatives in underserved markets. The firm's leadership includes CEO Kian-Wee Seah, with key members like Mark Yeo and Jean Thoh, all based in Singapore, where the company is headquartered.
Upfront Ventures, founded in 1996 and based in Santa Monica, California, is a prominent venture capital firm focused on early-stage technology investments. With over $2 billion in total funds raised, the firm has supported more than 200 companies across various sectors, including digital media, SaaS, consumer internet, and retail innovation. Notable investments include well-known companies like PayPal Credit, thredUP, Apeel Sciences, and Ulta. The firm's investment strategy typically involves leading seed and Series A rounds, providing not just capital but also strategic guidance and resources to help startups scale. They have a strong presence in the Los Angeles tech ecosystem, contributing to the growth of Silicon Beach. Upfront Ventures is also known for hosting the annual Upfront Summit, a major tech conference in Los Angeles that gathers industry leaders and innovators. Led by managing partners Yves Sisteron and Mark Suster, Upfront Ventures combines extensive industry experience with a commitment to transparency and long-term partnership with entrepreneurs. Their investments are global, with a focus on leveraging their strategic location in Los Angeles to support the thriving local startup scene. For startups looking to engage with Upfront Ventures, a clear demonstration of innovative solutions and strong market potential is key. The firm values introductions through its network and prefers pitches that align with its investment focus and ethos.
UpHonest Capital, founded in 2015 and based in Santa Clara, California, is a venture capital firm focused on early-stage investments. They invest across various sectors, including consumer, enterprise, deep technology, and web 3.0, supporting companies from Seed to Series A stages. The firm has built a substantial portfolio, investing in over 400 companies, with 28 unicorns and 23 exits via M&A or IPO. Notable investments from UpHonest Capital include companies such as Checkr, an AI-based platform for employee background verification; Hims & Hers, a telehealth service; Rippling, a human capital management software; and Instacart, a leading online grocery platform. Other significant investments include Turing AI, Golden, and Substack. UpHonest Capital is known for its sector-agnostic approach and its active support for portfolio companies, often co-investing with major firms like Sequoia, Accel, and Andreessen Horowitz. The firm also emphasizes building a vibrant ecosystem for entrepreneurs and investors through initiatives like the UpHonest Scouts and Beta Fellowship programs.
Upper90, founded in 2018, is a hybrid investment firm based in New York City that provides a mix of credit and equity to technology startups. The firm focuses on e-commerce, fintech, and supply chain finance, offering capital solutions that enable founders to scale their businesses with less dilution. Upper90 has managed over $2.2 billion across 43 portfolio companies, supporting ventures like Thrasio, Clearco, Octane, and Crusoe Energy. The firm's investment strategy involves leading with credit and participating in equity, with initial credit facilities ranging from $5 million to $30 million, scaling up to $50 million as companies grow. Upper90 targets companies with predictable revenue or asset collateral, allowing them to finance growth efficiently while retaining more ownership. Upper90's team, led by co-founder and CEO Billy Libby, prides itself on providing operational support and strategic advice to its portfolio companies, helping them navigate complex capital challenges and optimize their growth strategies.
Upside Partnership, founded by Kent Goldman in San Francisco, is a seed and pre-seed venture capital firm known for its early-stage investments in technology and software sectors. Some notable companies in their portfolio include Hims & Hers, Allbirds, and Life360, highlighting their ability to identify high-growth potential startups. Upside Partnership is industry-agnostic, focusing on purpose-built teams and companies with a strong vision and operational efficiency. They invest primarily in the U.S. market, often being the first institutional investor to commit, which allows them to shape the initial growth trajectory of their portfolio companies. Their strategy involves writing initial checks of around $500K, with 70% of their fund reserved for supporting founders in subsequent rounds. They place a high value on long-term partnerships and are known for their hands-on approach, guiding startups through their growth phases with a combination of mentorship and strategic advice. Kent Goldman, previously a partner at First Round Capital, brings extensive experience in early-stage investing. Christina Hunt, another key partner, has a strong background in both startup operations and venture capital, ensuring that Upside Partnership provides comprehensive support to its founders. This blend of expertise and a founder-first philosophy makes Upside Partnership a distinguished player in the venture capital space.
UpWest, a Silicon Valley-based seed fund, focuses on investing in Israel’s most promising entrepreneurs targeting the US market. Founded in 2012, UpWest has made over 111 investments and facilitated 21 successful exits. The firm emphasizes early-stage investments, typically participating in pre-seed, seed, and Series A funding rounds. UpWest's portfolio includes companies across various sectors such as AI, machine learning, proptech, fintech, cybersecurity, and SaaS. Notable investments include SentinelOne, which specializes in endpoint security software, HoneyBook, a project management tool, and CyCognito, a company focusing on uncovering and eliminating IT risks. The firm is led by founding partners Shuly Galili and Gil Ben-Artzy, who bring extensive experience and a strong network to support Israeli founders. UpWest has helped its portfolio companies raise over $3 billion in follow-on investments, underscoring its commitment to fostering growth and innovation.
Urban Innovation Fund, founded in 2016 and based in San Francisco, focuses on investing in early-stage companies that enhance the livability, sustainability, and economic vitality of cities. The fund supports startups at the pre-seed and seed stages across various sectors including transportation, climate tech, proptech, edtech, fintech, public health, civic tech, and food systems. Notable investments include Electriphi, a software company for electric fleet management acquired by Ford, and codeSpark, an educational platform teaching kids to code, which was acquired by BEGiN. Other significant investments are BookNook, a tutoring platform for improving reading skills, and Jeeves, a global payment network for small businesses that has recently seen its valuation rise to $2.1 billion. The fund, co-founded by Clara Brenner and Julie Lein, provides not only capital but also regulatory support to help entrepreneurs navigate complex urban challenges. Their portfolio reflects a commitment to tackling key issues facing urban areas today, from sustainable finance to community health.
V1.VC is a venture capital firm based in Boulder, Colorado, founded in 2015. The firm specializes in early-stage investments in internet, B2B software, consumer, financial, crypto, and deep tech companies across North America. V1.VC focuses on being patient, long-term capital partners for ambitious founders, leveraging their experience as current and former operators to support startups from initial stages to successful exits. Co-founded by Brett Jackson and Benny Joseph, V1.VC aims to be the most supportive investor in a founder’s journey. Brett Jackson brings extensive experience from roles at AVX Aircraft and Crocs, while Benny Joseph is known for his tenure as CTO at Allbirds and his role in founding GoodApril, which was acquired by Intuit. V1.VC has a diverse portfolio that includes notable companies like Allbirds, DoorDash, and OpenSea. They have made over 86 investments and have achieved 27 exits. The firm is dedicated to helping startups navigate the critical early stages of development and scale successfully. The team at V1.VC emphasizes a collaborative approach, working closely with startups to provide strategic guidance, resources, and connections to ensure their growth and success in the competitive market.
Valar Ventures, co-founded by Peter Thiel, Andrew McCormack, and James Fitzgerald, has made a significant mark in the venture capital world by focusing on fintech startups with a global reach. Notable investments include Wise, Xero, Petal, N26, and Stash, highlighting their commitment to backing transformative financial technology companies. These investments demonstrate Valar's ability to identify and nurture groundbreaking startups. The firm primarily invests in early-stage companies, often leading funding rounds with checks ranging from $1M to $10M. Their geographic focus spans North America and Europe, allowing them to tap into diverse markets and innovative ecosystems. This strategic approach ensures they are well-positioned to support startups poised for international growth. Valar Ventures operates with a clear investment strategy: they seek out companies with innovative fintech solutions that have the potential to disrupt traditional financial services. They are known for their hands-on approach, providing not just capital but also strategic guidance to help their portfolio companies scale effectively. The team, based in New York, brings deep fintech expertise and a strong network, which is invaluable to the startups they invest in. Founders looking to partner with Valar should present a clear, innovative fintech proposition with a strong potential for transformative impact. Valar Ventures is particularly interested in businesses that can demonstrate a solid growth trajectory and a compelling vision for the future of finance.