Stage 1 Ventures

Stage 1 Ventures is a venture capital firm that focuses on early-stage technology investments, particularly in sectors such as wireless, media, connected car technology, cloud, and security. Founded in 2005, the firm operates from multiple U.S. cities including Boston, Miami, and Tampa. Their investment approach is centered around a milestone-based model, supporting startups from seed stage through growth, with the aim of scaling innovative technologies to market success. Stage 1 Ventures employs a strategic investment philosophy, making selective bets through seed funds and SPVs (Special Purpose Vehicles), and then doubling down on companies showing strong revenue growth with larger follow-on investments. The firm has backed over 100 companies and helped generate more than $2 billion in investment proceeds. Notable portfolio companies include JumpCloud, a leader in cloud directory management that achieved unicorn status, as well as WiTricity and ViralGains. The Stage 1 team is deeply involved with their portfolio companies, providing hands-on support in product development, IP creation, and business scaling. Led by Managing Director David Baum, the firm also leverages an extensive advisory network to help drive corporate development and revenue growth for the startups they invest in. Stage 1 Ventures is known for its ability to guide companies through multiple stages of development, ultimately aiming to bring them to liquidity within a 3-5 year timeframe.