Security & Privacy VC Funds

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.

Two Culture Capital is a globally focused venture capital firm that has backed over 30 early-stage companies across five continents. Their portfolio spans diverse sectors, including consumer tech, financial services, logistics, and insurance, with a commitment to supporting founders who blend the "art and science" of entrepreneurship. Notable investments include unicorns like Robinhood, UiPath, and Carta, as well as high-growth startups such as Bloomscape and Kumu, a leading live-streaming app in Southeast Asia. The firm is stage-agnostic and geo-agnostic, investing from pre-seed to secondary rounds, with more than half of their portfolio companies being international. They are particularly interested in ventures that solve deeply human problems, whether through innovative tech, financial access, or improved logistics​. Founded by Scott Hartley and Simon Wagner, the team combines deep expertise in finance, tech, and global venture ecosystems. Hartley, a published author and co-founder of Everywhere Ventures, oversees investments alongside Wagner, a former hedge fund partner. Two Culture Capital places a strong emphasis on tech solutions that improve the future of work, using both machine and human ingenuity.

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​.

U.S. Venture Partners (USVP) is a leading Silicon Valley venture capital firm with a long history of investing in early-stage companies across four primary sectors: cybersecurity, enterprise software, consumer, and healthcare. Founded in 1981, USVP has invested in over 500 companies, helping to launch industry leaders like Box, Yammer, Pluto TV, Inari Medical, and Check Point Software. With a total of 93 IPOs and more than 100 profitable acquisitions, the firm has built a strong reputation for identifying transformative startups. USVP typically leads Series A and B rounds, focusing on high-growth opportunities in the U.S. and Israel. The firm’s team consists of former entrepreneurs and experienced executives who offer strategic support in scaling, team building, product development, and business growth. Its most recent fund, USVP XIII, closed at $400 million, continuing its legacy of early-stage investments aimed at transforming global industries.

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.

Ugly Duckling Ventures is a venture capital firm based in Copenhagen, Denmark, founded in 2021. It focuses on early-stage investments, particularly at the pre-seed and seed stages, within the Nordic region. The firm is led by a team of experienced founders and business angels who prioritize building strong relationships with the startups they back, offering not only capital but also operational expertise to help early ventures scale quickly. The firm targets disruptive business models and industries with growth potential across various sectors, including software, e-commerce, and sustainability. Ugly Duckling Ventures is known for its hands-on, collaborative approach, providing startups with direct access to general partners rather than delegating them to junior managers. The firm is actively involved in the Danish startup ecosystem, with many of its investors contributing to the success of portfolio companies like Moxso, BeCause, and Juristic. In 2023, Ugly Duckling closed a DKK 150 million (approximately $22 million) fund to support Danish startups, typically investing around $1.6 million per round. Their focus on transparency and founder-first partnerships makes them a valuable ally for early-stage companies.

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.

Uncork Capital, founded in 2004 and based in San Francisco, is a prominent seed-stage venture capital firm known for its investments in early-stage startups across various sectors including SaaS, consumer marketplaces, hardware, and emerging technologies. Some of their most notable investments include Postmates, Fitbit, Eventbrite, and SendGrid. The firm's investment strategy revolves around backing visionary founders at the seed stage with typical check sizes ranging from $500,000 to $2 million. Uncork Capital manages over $900 million in assets through its Seed Fund (Uncork VII) and Opportunity Fund (Uncork Plus III), designed to support portfolio companies as they mature and scale. Led by Jeff Clavier, the founder and managing partner, the team includes partners like Andy McLoughlin, Susan Liu, and Amy Saper, all based in San Francisco. The team is known for its deep industry expertise and hands-on approach, providing strategic support and resources to help startups grow. Startups seeking investment from Uncork Capital should highlight strong product-market fit and innovative solutions with the potential for significant market impact. The firm values clear, compelling pitches and prefers introductions through its extensive network​.

Uncorrelated Ventures, headquartered in San Francisco, specializes in early-stage investments in infrastructure software, decentralized finance, and fintech sectors. Founded by Salil Deshpande in 2019, the firm has a portfolio that includes companies like Tandem PV, HockeyStack, and Bodo.ai. They typically engage in Seed and Series A rounds, with an average check size of $17M. The fund is known for its hands-on approach, offering strategic support and leveraging a robust network to help startups scale. Uncorrelated Ventures values clear, innovative pitches that demonstrate significant market potential and technological advancement. Key team members include founder Salil Deshpande, a veteran in the venture capital space, and a dedicated team with diverse expertise in technology and investment management. Startups can approach Uncorrelated Ventures through their extensive network or direct outreach, emphasizing the unique aspects of their technology and market approach.

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.

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.

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​.

Upheaval Investments is a venture capital firm based in Chicago, focused on early-stage investments in disruptive technologies. The firm actively seeks out companies that are leveraging innovative solutions to tackle fundamental problems, particularly within the technology, healthcare, and industrial sectors. They invest globally, supporting startups from pre-seed through Series A rounds. The fund's approach is characterized by a commitment to partnering closely with entrepreneurs to accelerate growth and build impactful businesses. Their portfolio spans a diverse array of sectors, including AI, cleantech, robotics, and autonomous vehicles. Upheaval Investments is led by Riley Florsheim, who emphasizes a hands-on approach to fostering innovation and guiding companies from their earliest stages. While specific portfolio companies are not widely publicized, the firm's strategy revolves around identifying visionary founders with the potential to drive significant change across industries.

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.

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.

Valhalla Ventures is an early-stage venture capital firm, founded in 2020, with a core focus on deeptech and gaming sectors. Based in Los Angeles and New York, the firm launched its first $66M flagship fund in 2022, targeting audacious founders tackling hard problems with breakthrough solutions in science and engineering. Valhalla’s investment strategy is built around a concentrated portfolio, favoring seed and Series A stages, with a strong emphasis on backing non-traditional areas like space technology, materials science, and gaming innovations. Notable deeptech investments include Terran Biosciences, focusing on biotech platforms, and K2 Space, which develops satellite technologies led by ex-SpaceX engineers. In the gaming space, they’ve supported ventures like Incredible Dream, which aims to build a billion-dollar board game IP, and 1v1Me, a competitive gaming platform. Valhalla's partners, including founders Devan Malhotra, Matthew King, and Rohan Pujara, are deeply involved in supporting their portfolio companies with a hands-on approach, leveraging connections in media and technology. The firm prioritizes founders who defy conventions and push the boundaries of their fields, offering more than just capital—they provide critical strategic support, helping startups scale and disrupt their industries. With a keen eye on sectors that often go overlooked by traditional VCs, Valhalla Ventures is carving out a niche as a daring investor in groundbreaking technology and new gaming experiences.

Valley Capital Partners is a Silicon Valley-based venture capital firm founded in 2013, specializing in early-stage investments. The firm has a strong focus on Seed and Series A funding, particularly in enterprise technology sectors like AI/ML infrastructure, cybersecurity, and network infrastructure. Known for its hands-on approach, Valley Capital Partners works closely with founders, helping them build solid foundations for rapid growth through governance, talent recruitment, and strategic enterprise partnerships. Valley Capital’s investment strategy is marked by high conviction and concentrated bets, typically making 8-12 core investments per fund. Their network of exceptional Limited Partners (LPs), including top-tier tech investors, provides startups with unique access to insights and co-investment opportunities. Recent notable exits include Yubico and Affirm, highlighting the firm’s strength in nurturing high-growth companies. Led by seasoned professionals like Stephen O’Hara and Mitchell Kokko, the firm takes a long-term partnership approach, aiming to stay deeply involved with its portfolio companies. Unlike many VCs, Valley Capital avoids spreading itself thin across too many deals, choosing instead to focus on fewer, high-impact investments that enable deeper collaboration with founders. Based in Menlo Park, California, Valley Capital continues to back innovators, leveraging its deep Silicon Valley roots to fuel the next generation of enterprise tech success.

Valor Capital Group, founded in 2011, is a cross-border venture capital firm that focuses on bridging the US, Brazilian, and Latin American tech markets. Headquartered in New York, with significant operations in São Paulo, Valor Capital Group invests across various stages from seed to growth. Their portfolio spans multiple sectors, including fintech, B2B, consumer services, and technology. Some of Valor Capital Group's notable investments include companies like Nextdoor, Rubicon, and Satellogic. They have had a number of successful exits, with companies such as Udacity and Bitso achieving significant milestones. Valor Capital Group is known for supporting innovative startups like CloudWalk, which has achieved centaur status with over $300 million in annual recurring revenue, and Loft, valued at $2.9 billion as of April 2021. The firm’s team includes co-founders Clifford Sobel and Scott Sobel, with key partners like Michael Nicklas and Carlos Costa. They bring a wealth of experience and a robust network to their investment strategy, focusing on driving local innovation through global insights. Valor Capital Group’s unique cross-border approach and extensive portfolio underscore their commitment to fostering growth and innovation in emerging markets, particularly within the tech ecosystem of Brazil and Latin America.

Valor Equity Partners, founded in 1995 and based in Chicago, is a leading private equity firm specializing in operational growth investments. The firm strategically invests across various stages of company development, with a keen focus on technology sectors. Valor Equity Partners is renowned for its hands-on approach, working closely with portfolio companies to enhance growth and scalability. The firm's notable investments include SpaceX, a pioneer in aerospace; Gopuff, an on-demand convenience delivery service; Misfits Market, a direct-to-consumer grocery delivery provider; and Zipline, a company revolutionizing autonomous drone delivery systems. Valor's investment strategy emphasizes providing strategic and operational support, ensuring that portfolio companies can achieve substantial growth. Valor Equity Partners manages multiple funds, with their recent Fund V closing at $1.7 billion, underscoring their strong position in the private equity market. The firm's ability to attract significant capital commitments highlights investor confidence in their strategic approach and track record of success. Key team members include founder and CEO Antonio Gracias, who brings extensive experience and leadership to the firm. Valor's team is known for its deep industry knowledge and commitment to driving operational excellence within their portfolio companies. This combination of strategic investment and operational support positions Valor Equity Partners as a pivotal player in fostering innovation and growth within the technology sector.

Value Creation Capital (VCC) is a Netherlands-based venture capital firm that has been actively investing in deep tech companies since 2005. The firm specializes in early-stage investments, primarily focusing on sectors such as AI, cybersecurity, high-tech, and life sciences. Over the years, VCC has successfully built a portfolio of more than 40 tech companies, guiding them through various growth phases​. VCC takes a hands-on approach, offering more than just capital by providing strategic support and access to its extensive network of technology experts. They emphasize the importance of strong, diverse management teams and focus on deep tech companies that create a significant impact on society and business. Their team, led by managing partners such as Aldebert Wiersinga and Jos Bourgonje, is known for being highly involved in the development of the startups they back. The firm also offers a phased growth strategy, recognizing that each stage of a tech company's journey requires different skills and resources.

Vanedge Capital is an early-stage venture capital firm with offices in Vancouver and Silicon Valley. Founded by experienced technology entrepreneurs, the firm focuses on investing in companies that leverage deep technology and innovative solutions in areas such as hard tech, artificial intelligence, and analytics. Vanedge Capital aims to help visionary technologists build and scale their businesses through capital investment, operational expertise, and a robust network of industry connections. The firm has $390 million under management and has developed a repeatable investment process refined over a decade to deliver superior returns. Their portfolio includes a diverse range of companies such as Canalyst, Cogniac, and Echodyne, each known for their groundbreaking technologies and market impact. Key team members include Moe Kermani, who has extensive experience in cloud computing and machine intelligence, and Amy Rae, who focuses on SaaS businesses and applied analytics. The team provides hands-on support to their portfolio companies, helping them mitigate execution risks and attract follow-on capital from top-tier co-investors.

Variant Fund is an early-stage venture capital firm based in New York, specializing in investments that support the development of the "ownership economy." Founded in 2020, Variant focuses on web3, decentralized finance (DeFi), and blockchain sectors. The firm aims to invest in companies that are building an internet where users become owners, leveraging the transformative potential of blockchain technology. The team at Variant includes co-founders Jesse Walden and Li Jin, along with a group of experienced professionals such as Jake Chervinsky (Chief Legal Officer) and Geoff Hamilton (Investment Partner). They bring a wealth of expertise in legal, financial, and operational aspects to support their portfolio companies. Variant's portfolio includes prominent companies like Uniswap, Magic Eden, and Worldcoin, which are making significant strides in their respective fields. The firm is known for its quick decision-making process, providing initial investments typically in the range of pre-seed and seed stages. In a notable development, Variant Fund merged with Atelier Ventures to further strengthen their focus on the ownership economy, expanding their investment reach and operational capabilities​.

Venrock, a venture capital firm born from the Rockefeller family’s pioneering investments, focuses on early-stage companies in healthcare and technology. Its portfolio features high-profile companies like Apple, Intel, and more recently, businesses such as Illumina, and Cloudflare. Venrock operates primarily in the U.S., with offices in Palo Alto, New York, and Cambridge, emphasizing innovation-driven startups. Venrock’s investment strategy targets disruptive ideas in digital health, biotech, enterprise software, and cybersecurity. They prioritize early-stage investments, often leading seed and Series A rounds with checks typically ranging from $5M to $10M. The firm’s disciplined approach includes follow-on investments, ensuring sustained growth. Venrock tends to stay hands-on, offering strategic guidance rather than merely financial support, particularly in sectors with complex technical or regulatory landscapes. With recent funds like Venrock 10, a $650M pool, the firm is increasingly active, especially in biotech and digital therapeutics. Founders should note that Venrock values data-driven pitches and prefers founders with strong domain expertise. Partner Bryan Roberts, a key figure, exemplifies Venrock’s deep involvement in healthcare innovation, while other partners like Brian Ascher are notable for their tech focus. For startups, the ideal approach to Venrock involves showcasing clear scalability and a transformative market vision. Venrock’s long-standing reputation for backing groundbreaking companies is cemented by its proactive role in nurturing bold ideas that shape the future.

Venture Kick, a leading philanthropic initiative in Switzerland, has been instrumental in supporting early-stage startups since its inception in 2007. The program provides up to CHF 150,000 in pre-seed funding through a structured, three-stage process, aimed at helping science-based startups transition from innovative concepts to market-ready businesses. With a portfolio of over 1,000 supported startups, Venture Kick has contributed significantly to the Swiss startup ecosystem. Their efforts have led to the creation of more than 13,300 jobs and attracted over CHF 8 billion in investments. Notable successes from their alumni include Climeworks, a leader in direct air capture technology, which recently raised CHF 600 million to scale its operations, and YASAI, a vertical farming company that has secured investment from the Bell Food Group to boost its growth​​. The foundation’s focus spans various high-tech sectors, including ICT, life sciences, cleantech, and advanced manufacturing. In 2023 alone, Venture Kick reviewed 781 applications and supported 118 projects, demonstrating its robust selection process and broad industry impact. The initiative aims to scale its model further, with ambitious goals of supporting 3,000 high-tech companies and creating 100,000 jobs by 2033​.

VentureSouq is a dynamic venture capital firm based in Dubai, specializing in early-stage investments with a focus on FinTech and ClimateTech. Launched in 2013, VSQ has become a cornerstone of the MENA region’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, managing over 200 investments globally. Key investments include high-profile companies like Tabby, Sary, and Huspy, demonstrating their commitment to fostering innovation in diverse markets. VSQ targets sectors such as financial technology, climate technology, edtech, and digital media, emphasizing solutions that address critical economic, environmental, and societal issues. Their strategic focus includes sub-sectors like alternative proteins, carbon economy, energy storage, and supply chain technology, aligning with their mission of conscious investing. Geographically, VentureSouq invests across MENA and Pakistan, with notable ventures in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Pakistan. Their regional approach is complemented by a global perspective, reflecting their expansive investment reach. VSQ's investment strategy revolves around thematic funds, aiming to support transformative tech startups from seed to growth stages. They actively lead funding rounds, often with substantial follow-on investments, and leverage their extensive network to propel startups toward significant milestones. Their portfolio management is hands-on, providing operational support, strategic guidance, and valuable industry connections. The leadership team includes co-founders Sonia Gokhale, Tammer Qaddumi, and Sonia Weymuller, all bringing a wealth of experience from various prestigious financial institutions. Their diverse backgrounds and deep sector expertise underpin VSQ's robust investment framework.

Verdane is a specialist growth investment firm focused on tech-enabled and sustainable businesses across Europe. Founded in 2003, Verdane has raised nine funds and several co-investment vehicles, with total commitments exceeding €6 billion. The firm invests in both single companies and portfolios, targeting two core themes: digitalization and decarbonization. Notable investments include Babyshop, Banqsoft, Baum und Pferdgarten, Bellman Group, and Bemz. Verdane's flexible investment approach allows for both minority and majority stakes, supporting companies through growth capital and strategic guidance. Their portfolio spans diverse sectors such as B2B software, consumer digital services, and green technology. Verdane operates from seven offices across Europe, including Berlin, Munich, Copenhagen, Helsinki, London, Oslo, and Stockholm. Their in-house team of over 130 professionals provides deep sector expertise and hands-on support to help portfolio companies scale and achieve market leadership. In recent years, Verdane has been recognized for its performance, notably being named the top-performing mid-market investor in Europe in 2022 by HEC-Dow Jones. The firm is also a certified B Corporation, ensuring its investments align with high sustainability standards.

Verissimo Ventures is a pre-seed and seed stage venture fund investing in technology startups across Israel, the US, and Europe. The firm focuses on backing founders who aim to solve significant problems using cutting-edge technology. Verissimo Ventures is particularly interested in vertical software, operational software, and engineering & infrastructure software, along with innovative business models targeting emerging and large markets​. Founded by Alex Oppenheimer, Verissimo brings a hands-on approach from day one, helping portfolio companies turn finance and operations into strategic assets. The team’s background spans operational finance, technology leadership, and R&D, with experience in guiding companies from founding stages through to IPO and M&A exits. This extensive experience allows them to provide invaluable support to their portfolio companies at every growth stage. The fund's portfolio includes companies such as Causal, Rossum, and Trullion, among others. Founders have praised Verissimo for their deep operational expertise, network, and strategic support, which have been critical in helping startups navigate early-stage challenges and achieve significant milestones.

Version One Ventures is a venture capital firm that focuses on backing mission-driven founders at the earliest stages of their ventures. Established by Boris Wertz and Angela Tran, the firm is based in Vancouver and San Francisco. Version One invests in a diverse range of sectors, including SaaS, marketplaces, crypto, and climate/energy. Notable investments include companies such as Coinbase, Ada, Shippo, Uniswap, and Jobber. The firm has a reputation for identifying high-potential opportunities early, having successfully invested in vertical SaaS in the early 2010s, crypto since 2016, and climate tech starting in 2020. Version One Ventures is driven by a core belief in supporting founders who are creating transformational change and new market categories. They seek out opportunities that might seem fringe or emerging but have the potential to lead and define new industries. This approach has led them to invest in areas like AI, VR/AR, and hardtech/biotech.

Vertex Growth, founded in 2019, is a growth-stage venture capital firm based in Singapore, dedicated to backing high-potential companies across Asia and globally. The firm focuses on scaling technology and healthcare startups, providing them with both capital and strategic support. As part of the Vertex global network, which includes affiliates in regions like Southeast Asia, Israel, Japan, and the US, Vertex Growth taps into a broad ecosystem, leveraging this network to help its portfolio companies reach their full potential. The fund typically invests in Series B and beyond, with a ticket size ranging from $10 million to $15 million. It focuses on sectors such as fintech, healthcare, cybersecurity, and deep tech, and has invested in prominent companies like Nium, PerimeterX, and Allay Therapeutics. With over $760 million under management and a portfolio of more than 30 companies, Vertex Growth is committed to creating category-defining companies. The firm also boasts a strong track record of exits, including successful investments in Sunday and PatSnap. The firm’s leadership, including General Partners James Lee, Tam Hock Chuan, and Jeff Chang, emphasizes a hands-on approach, working closely with entrepreneurs to drive value creation beyond capital investment​.

Vertex Ventures is a global network of venture capital funds with a focus on early-stage investments across various innovation hubs, including China, Israel, Southeast Asia, India, the US, and Japan. Vertex Ventures Japan (VVJ), the newest addition, recently launched its inaugural JPY 10 billion ($64 million) fund, Vertex Ventures Japan Fund I (VVJFI). This fund is dedicated to investing in early-stage Japanese startups with high growth potential, particularly in sectors such as deep tech, digital transformation (DX), artificial intelligence (AI), and the creator economy​. VVJ leverages the extensive global network of Vertex Holdings, which manages over $6 billion in assets and provides strategic support and operational assistance to its portfolio companies. This network allows VVJ to offer Japanese startups access to global markets and resources, fostering innovation and technological advancement​. The fund is led by Managing Partner Takashi Tomita and General Partner Tomohiro Miyasaka, who are responsible for identifying new investment opportunities and driving strategic growth. Vertex Ventures Japan also collaborates with the University of Tokyo and the Japanese government to enhance the startup ecosystem through cross-border partnerships between industry, academia, and government.

VIVUS Inc., now operating as VIVUS LLC, is a biopharmaceutical company committed to developing and commercializing innovative therapies for serious medical conditions. Founded in 1991 and headquartered in Campbell, California, VIVUS has a focused strategy on addressing unmet medical needs through a diverse portfolio of products and pipeline developments. VIVUS's product portfolio includes Qsymia®, a weight management medication approved in the U.S. and South Korea, which has shown efficacy in reducing blood pressure and managing weight in adolescents and adults. They have also developed PANCREAZE®, a pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy used to treat exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI) caused by conditions like cystic fibrosis. The company's investment strategy involves acquiring and managing revenue-generating products. They focus on expanding their commercial footprint globally, as seen with their strategic partnerships and product launches in markets like South Korea. Key team members include John Amos, CEO, and Santosh Varghese, MD, President and Chief Medical Officer, who bring extensive experience in the pharmaceutical industry to drive VIVUS's mission forward​.

Vestigo Ventures is an early-stage venture capital firm based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, that focuses on fintech startups. Founded by David Blundin, Mark Casady, and Ian Sheridan, the firm aims to support transformative innovations in financial technology. Vestigo Ventures manages Fund I with $58.9 million, concentrating on market structures, operational solutions, worksite management, and personal wealth management. The firm leverages its connection with Cogo Labs, a data-driven startup incubator, to provide extensive support to its portfolio companies. Vestigo Ventures has invested in notable startups like Digital Assets Data, LifeYield, and Micronotes. The team includes experienced professionals like Managing Partner Mike Nugent and Partner Frazer Anderson, who bring a wealth of expertise in fintech and venture capital. Vestigo Ventures’ strategic limited partners comprise corporate investors from the insurance and asset management sectors, family offices, and individual investors from the financial services industry. This diverse LP base provides portfolio companies with invaluable industry insights and operational experience. Overall, Vestigo Ventures stands out for its focused investment strategy in fintech and its commitment to accelerating the growth of early-stage companies through data-driven insights and strong industry connections.

VilCap Investments, founded in 2014 and headquartered in San Francisco, focuses on early-stage impact investing, backing companies that address pressing social and environmental challenges. Their portfolio spans various sectors, including health, education, energy, agriculture, and financial services. Notable investments include Bodhi Health Education, Certintell, Constant Therapy, and iKure in the health sector, and MPOWER Financing, Nepris, and Pear Deck in education. VilCap's investment strategy is deeply rooted in impact, aiming to create long-term prosperity and equity. They typically invest in seed and early-stage companies, with a preference for those that align with their mission of fostering social and environmental change. VilCap Investments often collaborates with Village Capital’s accelerator programs to find and fund innovative entrepreneurs. The firm’s geographic focus includes the United States, India, Africa, and Latin America, reflecting their commitment to global impact. Their investments range from $150,000 to $500,000 in follow-on funding, emphasizing support for high-performing companies. Key team members include Michael Davis, Managing Director, and Victoria Fram, co-founder and advisor. VilCap prefers to be approached through their network, leveraging connections to identify potential investments that align with their values and impact goals​. For startups aiming to engage with VilCap, highlighting a strong alignment with social and environmental impact, alongside a solid business model, will be crucial. Their unique approach blends financial support with strategic guidance to ensure long-term success and sustainability.

Village Global is an early-stage venture capital firm that leverages a robust network of luminary investors to back innovative entrepreneurs from the very start. Based in San Francisco, the firm has garnered support from tech giants like Jeff Bezos, Bill Gates, Mark Zuckerberg, and Reid Hoffman, who also serves as the firm's Chairman​. Village Global focuses on a wide array of industries, including fintech, health, consumer, and enterprise technology. Their portfolio boasts successful investments in companies such as Kapwing, Pogo, and Stitch, highlighting their commitment to backing transformative and high-potential startups​. The firm's investment strategy involves leading pre-seed and seed funding rounds, typically writing checks between $250,000 and $1.5 million. Village Global is noted for its network-centric approach, offering unparalleled access to mentors, follow-on funding, and strategic advice from some of the world's most successful entrepreneurs​. With over $500 million in assets under management, Village Global's team includes influential figures like Anne Dwane and Ben Casnocha, who actively support their portfolio companies through hands-on guidance and connections. For startups looking to partner with Village Global, demonstrating a bold vision and the potential for significant impact is crucial. The firm's unique network-driven model provides startups with the resources and support needed to accelerate their growth from day one.

Vision Ventures is an early-stage venture capital firm with a focus on supporting bold entrepreneurs across various sectors, particularly in Central and Eastern Europe (CEE). The fund's portfolio spans industries such as AI, SaaS, HR tech, and robotics, featuring notable investments like Sloneek, Airvolute, and BiteBerry. These companies exemplify Vision’s focus on innovation, automation, and simplifying business operations globally. Vision Ventures primarily invests in pre-seed and seed rounds, with an average check size of up to EUR 1.6 million. The firm seeks startups with the potential to scale globally, providing not only financial backing but also strategic advice on growth and market positioning. Vision Ventures takes a hands-on approach, often helping with product development and strategic decisions. Geographically, Vision Ventures is rooted in Slovakia, but their investments and partnerships are spread across Europe, with an increasing interest in global opportunities. Founders should approach Vision Ventures with a clear market strategy and scalability plan, as they highly value data-driven growth models and visionary leadership. The team, led by serial entrepreneur Tomáš Bél, is known for its strong business acumen and deep experience in various industries, making them a reliable partner for navigating the complexities of early-stage growth. In short, Vision Ventures offers much more than capital—they are deeply involved in guiding companies to success, offering expertise across finance, technology, and market development.

VITALIZE Venture Capital, founded in 2017 and based in Chicago, focuses on early-stage investments in WorkTech, emphasizing people-first, data-driven innovations that transform work outcomes. Their portfolio includes a range of companies like Plumb, Mobly, and Lucia, operating in diverse sectors such as software development, productivity tools, and information services. Led by founder Gale Wilkinson, the team also includes Justin Gordon and Caroline Casson, who bring extensive experience in venture capital and startup incubation. VITALIZE supports startups through its $23.4M Fund II and a community of over 500 angel investors, offering capital and strategic guidance. The firm is committed to fostering diversity, with 70% of their angel investors coming from underrepresented backgrounds. VITALIZE Angels, their angel investing arm, allows both accredited and non-accredited investors to participate, promoting broad access to venture capital opportunities.

Volta Ventures is a venture capital firm based in Gent, Belgium, primarily investing in early-stage B2B software startups across the Benelux region (Belgium, Netherlands, Luxembourg). Founded in 2014, Volta focuses on companies in sectors such as FinTech, PropTech, and HealthTech, with a strong emphasis on recurring revenue models and scalable business solutions. The firm typically invests between €300K and €2 million during initial funding rounds and provides follow-on funding up to €7 million. Volta Ventures has a reputation for being actively involved with its portfolio companies, offering operational guidance, strategic advice, and leveraging its extensive network to help startups grow and succeed. Notable portfolio companies include Cashforce (a cash forecasting platform) and Keyrock (a liquidity provider in financial markets). Volta is known for its hands-on approach and long-term commitment to its companies, often co-investing alongside other funds to ensure ongoing support throughout multiple funding rounds. With offices in Amsterdam and Gent, Volta Ventures is a key player in the European startup ecosystem, driving innovation in enterprise software.

Voyager Capital, based in Seattle, is a leading venture capital firm with over $520 million under management. Since its founding in 1997, Voyager has focused on early-stage B2B startups, particularly in software, cloud infrastructure, and big data applications. The firm targets investments in the Pacific Northwest and Western Canada, emphasizing regions such as Washington, Oregon, British Columbia, and Alberta. Voyager Capital has raised $100 million for its latest fund, aimed at supporting 15 to 20 startups across these regions. This fund continues Voyager's tradition of backing innovative companies, with notable portfolio successes including Zipwhip, acquired by Twilio, and Yapta, acquired by Coupa Software. The firm is led by a seasoned team of investors, including co-founder and managing director Bill McAleer, Erik Benson, Diane Fraiman, and James Newell. Their investment strategy is entrepreneur-centric, providing not just financial support but also extensive mentorship and networking opportunities to help startups scale efficiently and effectively. Voyager Capital stands out for its commitment to the Pacific Northwest's burgeoning tech ecosystem, leveraging its deep connections and regional focus to drive substantial growth and innovation in its portfolio companies.

squared Ventures, a Munich-based venture capital firm, focuses on early-stage deep tech investments across Europe. Established in 2016, Vsquared Ventures aims to back scientific and engineering-based innovations that address global challenges. Their areas of focus include AI, next-generation software, energy transition, new computing and sensing, new space, robotics, and tech-bio sectors. The firm recently closed its second fund, Vsquared II, at €214 million, making it the largest early-stage deep tech fund in Europe. This fund will support approximately 25 companies with investments ranging from €500,000 to €5 million, with a significant portion reserved for follow-on investments. Notable investments by Vsquared include Isar Aerospace, a rocket manufacturer; IQM Quantum, a quantum computing hardware provider; and Neura Robotics, a developer of cognitive robotic assistants. The firm is committed to leveraging Europe's strong talent pool and research facilities to build category-leading companies. The team at Vsquared Ventures includes experienced investors and deep tech experts, such as Thomas Oehl, Dr. Herbert Mangesius, and Dr. Lise Rechsteiner, who joined as a General Partner for the latest fund​. They focus on fostering a resilient deep tech ecosystem in Europe, aiming to make significant contributions to technological and economic sovereignty.