Visible Blog

On the eighth episode of the Thrive Through Connection podcast, we welcome Hunter Walk. Hunter is a Partner and Co-founder at Homebrew, a seed-stage venture capital firm backing mission-driven founders. He joins us to discuss emerging trends in the venture space since Homebrew’s founding in 2013. About Hunter Since founding Homebrew, Hunter has also helped launch Screendoor, a fund that invests in emerging VC fund managers. Throughout his career as both a VC and an LP, Hunter has had a front-row seat to the evolution of the venture capital world since the early 2010s. Mike, our CEO, sat down with Hunter to talk through how the venture landscape has shifted, the growing role of secondaries, and his new work with Screendoor. You can give the full episode a listen below: Spotify Link Apple Link What You Can Expect to Learn from Hunter How seed-stage investing has changed in the last 12 years What’s driving the rise of secondaries in venture Why Hunter believes secondaries are here to stay How founders can think about secondaries for their business Why Hunter helped launch Screendoor to invest in VC funds Want more stories like this? Head to the Thrive Through Connection Hub for every past and upcoming episode.

Cartography Capital is an early-stage venture firm focused on breakthrough technologies and the infrastructure that powers them. With a growing portfolio and an expanding strategy, Cartography needed a portfolio management solution that could scale with their ambitions and growth plans. Scaling Reporting While Maintaining Founder Connection As Cartography's portfolio expanded globally across sectors like deep tech, energy, and sustainability, so did the complexity of its operations. Early on, the team relied on manual tools and founder relationships to stay updated. “We used basic tools like Google Sheets and relied on our relationships with founders to get updates via phone or email.” This ad hoc process worked in the beginning, but became unsustainable as Cartography prepared to launch a second fund focused on infrastructure financing. With that expansion came a deeper need for precision and visibility. To support this evolving strategy, Cartography needed more than better reporting—they needed a way to intentionally define the data they required, streamline founder communications, and align their internal and external stakeholders. A Centralized System Built for Scale After evaluating several platforms, Cartography selected Visible in early 2024. “Given our size, budget, and what we needed, Visible was the best option.” The onboarding experience was hands-on and effective: “Visible’s import tool made it easy to get started—once we provided the data in the required format, the team handled the upload efficiently and got us up and running quickly.” The platform quickly became a core part of the team’s workflow. Cartography now leverages Visible to: Automate performance data collection across SPVs Visualize fund performance using dashboards Manage investor materials with a centralized data room Assign unstructured email updates to companies using the AI inbox “The ability to create custom metrics for each portfolio company and automate data requests has significantly streamlined our reporting process… Setting up dashboards was quick, and the visuals are clean, intuitive, and easy to interpret.” More Efficient Reporting, Deeper Insights, and Better Connections Since adopting Visible, Cartography estimates that its reporting workload has decreased by roughly 30%, giving the team more time to focus on analysis, founder support, and LP engagement. Beyond time savings, the platform has pushed the team to become more intentional—defining the metrics and data they need from founders in a way that aligns both with internal priorities and LP expectations. It has also introduced greater structure to how the team tracks investment activity, valuations, and performance over time. Onboarding new portfolio companies is now faster and more consistent, and LP communications have improved through a branded, trackable data room that’s easy to manage and update. “Visible has brought valuable structure to our periodic reporting and record keeping.” Ben Stein, General Partner Check out how you can leverage Visible and join firms like Cartography here.

Michigan has rapidly become a thriving hub for startups, attracting significant venture capital investment across various industries. With a robust ecosystem of investors, accelerators, and resources, the state offers countless opportunities for founders looking to scale their companies. From top-tier venture capital firms like Plymouth Growth, Courtside Ventures, and Detroit Venture Partners to a wide range of resources designed to support entrepreneurs, Michigan presents a fertile ground for business growth. This article explores the key venture capital firms in Michigan, valuable resources for fundraising, and important networking and pitch events, providing founders with the insights they need to successfully raise capital and navigate Michigan’s dynamic startup ecosystem. Top VCs in Michigan Fontinalis Partners About: Investing in early-stage startups on the new frontiers of efficient movement, industrial innovation, and sustainability. Thesis: Macro trends are driving demand, Mobile & big data are catalyzing growth, Proven technology can be scaled globally, A strategic approach enhances value creation Plymouth Growth About: At Plymouth Growth, we invest in growth-stage technology companies - with proven business models and strong teams - that are ready to scale. Courtside Ventures About: Courtside Ventures invests in early-stage companies focused on sports, gaming, and collectibles. Detroit Venture Partners About: Detroit Venture Partners is an American venture capital firm that funds seed- and early-stage technology companies. Sweetspot check size: $ 250K Thesis: Detroit Venture Partners is an American venture capital firm that funds seed- and early-stage technology companies. BioStar About: BioStar Capital invests in and nurtures transformative medical technologies. Our team of renowned healthcare clinicians, medical thought leaders, and financial professionals brings unique insight to every investment opportunity. By marshaling a rare combination of domain expertise, industry connections, and access to medical facilities and innovators, BioStar has consistently produced life-changing outcomes for patients and rewarding returns for investors. Michigan Rise About: Michigan Rise Pre-Seed Fund III supports the growth and success of Michigan-based technology startups by providing strategic early-stage venture funding. In partnership with the MSU Research Foundation and Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), we connect founders with the resources and support they need to scale and thrive. Michigan Capital Network About: MCN is one of Michigan’s most active and consistent investment organizations. Our objective is to build world-class companies and entrepreneurial talent through investment and mentoring. We are only successful if the people with whom we invest are successful. Our group is committed to utilizing our financial, intellectual, and networking resources to help our portfolio companies achieve more. Our commitment is to grow strong entrepreneurs and companies in Michigan and the Midwest region. Invest Michigan About: Invest Michigan is a non-profit funded by the Michigan Strategic Fund. As fund manager for both the Michigan Pre-Seed Fund 2.0 and the University Commercialization Fund, Invest Michigan invests in early-stage high tech businesses located in Michigan. The Michigan Pre-Seed Fund 2.0 is an investment fund aimed at supporting pre-seed and seed stage technology companies located in Michigan. The MPSF 2.0 offers equity or convertible debt initial investments ranging from $50,000 – $150,000 with the goal of supporting our portfolio companies with additional follow-on investments. eLab Ventures About: eLab Ventures is a Silicon Valley and Michigan-based early stage venture capital fund with significant experience in building and investing in disruptive technology that is fueling the rise of autonomous and connected vehicles which we believe will be the most disruptive development in transportation since the invention of the automobile itself. Thesis: Building and investing in companies leveraging disruptive technologies, including autonomous and connected vehicles. Grand Ventures About: We have invested in some of the fastest growing companies in North America alongside some of the most prestigious venture funds. We pride ourselves on supporting great entrepreneurs from inception through rapid growth to maturity and helping out at each stage of the journey. Our sweetspot is to write $500K-$2MM checks for companies raising their first institutional round of funding. Beyond our capital investment, we help entrepreneurs with refining strategy and focus, talent development, and business development. Our goal is to help entrepreneurs achieve successful follow-on rounds and future exits. Thesis: Grand Ventures is an early stage venture fund investing in seed stage B2B SaaS companies in emerging regions of the US and Canada focused on Supply Chain, Fintech, DevOps, and Digital Health. Arboretum Ventures About: Arboretum Ventures is a venture capital firm targeting investments in early-stage life sciences companies. Their areas of focus include: medical devices and diagnostics; pharmaceuticals and biotechnology; and, health care services. Arboretum makes seed and early-stage investments, often representing the founder’s first professional investor. As such, Arboretum’s principals remain actively involved with the portfolio companies. Ludlow Ventures About: VC is a customer service business. Whether it's testing product, pushing pixels, leveraging our network, or forcing people to download your app, we're here to help. You make our dream jobs possible and we're forever thankful for that. Sweetspot check size: $ 1.25M Thesis: We believe in VC without ego. We invest with insane conviction and love backing the right teams when others think it's too early. BioStar Ventures About: BioStar Ventures is a venture capital based fund created by physicians and medical business leaders to invest primarily in vascular medical devices and related technology. The management and board members of the Bio-Star have proven track records within the medical industry and offer the investor decades of inside knowledge into the business of medicine as well as patient care delivery. Michigan Capital Advisors About: Michigan Capital Advisors is an operationally-focused private investment firm based in Metro Detroit. MCA was founded in 2016 by Charles "Chip" McClure and partners with private equity and venture capital firms to invest in industrial and renewable technology companies in emerging markets like manufacturing, mobility, and advanced materials. Augment Ventures About: Augment Ventures invests in exceptional teams with innovative products in enterprise software, smart hardware and physical innovation. Thesis: We invest in transformational companies, commercializing disruptive technologies that enhance the quality of life and business efficiency across global markets. RPM Ventures About: RPM is a based seed and early-stage venture fund focusing on Mobility, B2B Enterprise, and Marketplaces. Thesis: We are recognized as thought leaders and have built a wide range of strategic relationships in several focused sectors, including: mobility, automotive, enterprise software, financial services, insurance and real estate. Biosciences Research & Commercialization Center of Western Michigan University About: The Biosciences Research and Commercialization Center provides startup and gap funding to promising Michigan-based life sciences and medical device ventures entering the commercialization phase of development. Our customers include entrepreneurs, scientists, corporations, and University Technology Transfer offices. Resources for Michigan Startup Fundraising A wealth of resources designed to support entrepreneurs at various stages help navigate the startup landscape in Michigan. From accelerators and incubators to grants and angel investor networks, the state offers a robust infrastructure to aid startup growth and fundraising efforts. Accelerators and Incubators Engaging with accelerators and incubators can provide startups with essential mentorship, funding opportunities, and networking connections. Notable programs in Michigan include: Ann Arbor SPARK: This organization operates two business incubators—the SPARK Central Innovation Center in Ann Arbor and the SPARK East Innovation Center in Ypsilanti. They offer affordable office spaces, mentorship, and access to a network of business leaders to help early-stage companies reach key milestones. Desai Accelerator: A seven-month program based in Ann Arbor, the Desai Accelerator provides tech-enabled startups with funding, mentorship, staff support, and resources necessary for rapid growth. Techstars Detroit: Part of the global Techstars network, this accelerator offers $125,000 in seed funding, mentorship, and a robust network to startups, particularly those in the mobility and automotive sectors. Grants & Non-Dilutive Funding For startups seeking capital without equity dilution, several grants and non-dilutive funding options are available: Michigan Small Business Development Center (SBDC): The SBDC offers no-cost consulting services, training, and resources to Michigan small businesses. Their support includes assistance in identifying and applying for appropriate grant opportunities. Accelerate Michigan: This competitive pitch event targets high-growth startups, offering significant funding awards and opportunities to connect with potential investors and industry leaders. 20Fathoms and Venture North Grants: These organizations have awarded grants to small businesses in northwest Michigan, focusing on underrepresented entrepreneurs. Recent initiatives provided $4,500 to each of 10 small businesses to support their growth and local economic impact. Angel Investor Groups Connecting with angel investors and participating in pitch events can be pivotal for securing early-stage funding: BlueWater Angels Investment Network: Comprising over 30 high-net-worth individuals and organizations, this group invests in promising Michigan startups across various sectors. They regularly host pitch events, providing entrepreneurs with opportunities to present their ventures to potential investors. Michigan Angel Fund: Managed by Ann Arbor SPARK, this fund focuses on early-stage Michigan-based companies, providing capital and mentorship to foster growth. Plans are underway to raise a sixth fund to continue supporting early-stage innovation. Best Networking & Fundraising Events in Michigan Michigan's startup ecosystem offers a variety of networking and fundraising events that provide valuable opportunities for founders to connect with investors, mentors, and peers. Here are some notable events to consider: 1. Michigan Business Challenge (MBC) Hosted by the Zell Lurie Institute at the University of Michigan, the MBC is a premier business plan competition that attracts student entrepreneurs from across the state. Participants compete for funding and mentorship, presenting their business ideas to a panel of judges. The competition includes an information session and a "How to Pitch" workshop to prepare participants. 2. Burgess New Venture Challenge Organized by Michigan State University's Burgess Institute for Entrepreneurship & Innovation, this competition offers student entrepreneurs the chance to compete for over $50,000 in funding. The event emphasizes collaboration, venture development, and the entrepreneurial mindset, providing mentoring and connections to Michigan's entrepreneurial ecosystem. 3. Tech Week Grand Rapids Scheduled for September 15-20, 2025, Tech Week Grand Rapids is a week-long series of events that bring together technology professionals, entrepreneurs, and investors. The event features independently hosted gatherings, workshops, and networking opportunities, culminating in a large-scale conference. 4. Cleantech Open & Plug and Play Detroit Kick-Off Networking Event This event introduces the 2025 Accelerator Program, focusing on cleantech innovations. Hosted by Cleantech Open and Plug and Play Detroit, it offers networking opportunities with like-minded individuals and insights into the accelerator program. 5. Ilitch School Startup Technology Pitch Competition Hosted by Wayne State University's Ilitch School of Business, this competition invites current students to pitch technology-based business ideas. Teams can win cash investments, and the event provides exposure to potential investors and industry professionals. Maximizing Networking Opportunities at These Events To make the most of these events: Prepare Your Pitch: Develop a concise and compelling elevator pitch that clearly articulates your startup's value proposition. Engage Actively: Participate in workshops, panel discussions, and networking sessions to build relationships with potential investors and mentors. Follow Up: After the event, reach out to the contacts you've made to continue the conversation and explore potential collaborations or funding opportunities. The Startup & Investment Landscape in Michigan Key Industries Attracting Venture Capital Michigan's startup ecosystem is experiencing significant growth, with venture capital investments focusing on several key industries: Automotive and Mobility: Building upon its rich automotive heritage, Michigan is a leader in mobility innovations, attracting investments in autonomous vehicles, electric transportation, and related technologies. Life Sciences and Healthcare: The state is home to a robust life sciences sector, with venture capital directed towards healthcare startups, medical devices, and biotech firms. Information Technology: Michigan's IT sector has seen substantial growth, with a 15% average increase, employing around 100,000 workers. This expansion has led to venture capital interest in software development, cybersecurity, and fintech startups. Overview of Michigan’s Proximity to Major Markets Strategically located in the Midwest, Michigan offers startups advantageous access to major markets: Access to Major U.S. Markets: Michigan's central location provides convenient access to major U.S. markets, facilitating business operations and expansion opportunities. International Trade: Proximity to Canada enhances cross-border trade opportunities, benefiting startups aiming for international market penetration. Connect With Investors in Michigan Using Visible At Visible, we often times compare a fundraise to a B2B sales and marketing funnel. At the top of your funnel, you are finding new investors. In the middle, you are nurturing and pitching potential investors. At the bottom of the funnel, you are working through diligence and ideally closing new investors. With the introduction of data rooms, you can now manage every aspect of your fundraising funnel with Visible. Find investors at the top of your funnel with our free investor database, Visible Connect and find a filtered list of Michigan's investors here. Track your conversations and move them through your funnel with our Fundraising CRM Share your pitch deck and monthly updates with potential investors Organize and share your most vital fundraising documents with data rooms Manage your fundraise from start to finish with Visible. Give it a free try for 14 days here.

Boston, a city steeped in history and innovation, has established itself as a premier hub for startups and venture capital. With its world-renowned universities, such as MIT and Harvard, and cutting-edge research institutions, Boston fosters an environment rich in intellectual capital and technological advancements. The city’s vibrant and diverse startup scene is bolstered by a strong network of venture capital firms, angel investors, and accelerators, providing essential funding, mentorship, and resources to aspiring entrepreneurs. For founders looking to launch and grow their ventures, Boston offers a collaborative community and a wealth of opportunities, making it an ideal destination for startup success. This guide aims to equip Boston-based founders with the knowledge and strategies needed to navigate the fundraising landscape effectively, tapping into the unique advantages of the city's dynamic ecosystem. The Boston Startup Ecosystem Boston’s startup ecosystem offers a unique blend of intellectual capital, innovation, and community support, making it an ideal environment for launching and growing a startup. Boston provides a solid foundation for entrepreneurial success with access to top-tier talent, a collaborative network, and abundant funding opportunities. Here’s a closer look at what makes it so unique and advantageous for startups: Innovation Hub Boston is globally recognized as a hub for innovation, particularly in technology, healthcare, and biotechnology. The city is home to many cutting-edge companies and research institutions that drive technological advancements and create a fertile ground for new ideas. Startups in Boston benefit from this innovative atmosphere, gaining access to the latest research and development trends. Academic and Research Influence The presence of prestigious universities like MIT, Harvard, Boston University, and Northeastern University plays a crucial role in shaping the startup ecosystem. These institutions produce a steady stream of talented graduates and foster a culture of entrepreneurship through various programs, incubators, and accelerators. Collaborations between startups and these universities often lead to groundbreaking innovations and access to state-of-the-art facilities. Networking and Community Boston boasts a vibrant networking scene, with numerous events, meetups, and industry conferences facilitating connections among entrepreneurs, investors, and industry experts. Organizations like MassChallenge, Techstars Boston, Venture Café, and Harvard i-Lab are instrumental in helping startups refine their business models, access funding, connect with potential investors and partners, showcase their ideas, and navigate the challenges of early-stage growth. Venture Capital and Funding Boston is home to a robust network of venture capital firms and angel investors that actively seek to invest in promising startups. Firms like General Catalyst, Battery Ventures, and Polaris Partners are just a few of the prominent players in the local VC landscape. These investors provide capital and bring valuable expertise and networks to help startups scale and succeed. Co-working Spaces Boston has a plethora of co-working spaces like WeWork, CIC Boston, and Workbar that offer flexible office solutions for startups. These spaces foster collaboration and innovation, allowing entrepreneurs to work alongside like-minded individuals and companies. Co-working spaces often host events and workshops, further enhancing the sense of community and providing additional networking opportunities. Success Stories and Role Models Boston’s startup ecosystem is rich with success stories that inspire and motivate new entrepreneurs. Companies like HubSpot, Wayfair, and Ginkgo Bioworks began their journeys in Boston and have since achieved significant success. These role models demonstrate the potential for growth and innovation within the city and serve as valuable sources of insight and inspiration for emerging startups. Leveraging Local Resources Boston’s startup ecosystem is rich with resources that can help founders navigate the challenges of launching and growing a business. By leveraging these local resources, entrepreneurs can gain crucial support, mentorship, and networking opportunities to accelerate their journey toward success. Here’s how to make the most of what Boston has to offer: Professional Services Access to experienced professional services can be crucial for startups, particularly in legal, accounting, and consulting areas: Law Firms: Firms like Foley Hoag, Goodwin Procter, and WilmerHale have strong practices focused on startup and venture capital law, helping startups with incorporation, funding rounds, and intellectual property. Accounting Firms: Firms like EY, PwC, and KPMG offer specialized services for startups, including financial planning, tax advisory, and audit services. Consulting Firms: Local consulting firms such as Innosight and Altman Solon provide strategic advice to help startups scale and navigate market challenges. Networking and Mentorship Programs Building a network of mentors and peers is essential for startup success. Boston offers numerous programs to facilitate this: Venture Café: A weekly gathering that brings together entrepreneurs, investors, and innovators to share ideas and collaborate. MIT Enterprise Forum: Provides educational programs and networking opportunities for tech entrepreneurs. SCORE Boston: Offers free mentoring and workshops from experienced business professionals to help startups at various stages of their journey. Government and Non-Profit Support There are several government and non-profit initiatives designed to support startups in Boston: Massachusetts Life Sciences Center (MLSC): Provides grants, loans, and tax incentives to support life sciences startups. MassVentures: Offers early-stage funding to Massachusetts-based startups, particularly those in technology and innovation sectors. Small Business Development Center (SBDC): Provides consulting and training services to help small businesses grow and succeed. Related Resource: The 12 Best VC Funds You Should Know About Top Venture Capital Firms in Boston 1. General Catalyst Partners As put by the team at General Catalyst Partners, “We work with companies through their entire lifecycle—from the earliest stages through growth and beyond. Our team has expertise in all phases of company building and can add real value at every inflection point. No matter where they are in their journey, we always aspire to be a founder’s first call—connecting them to the relationships that matter most.” Focus and industry: General Catalyst invests across every sector. They specifically mention consumer, enterprise, fintech & crypto, and health assurance on their website. Funding stage: General Catalyst invests across every stage — “from creation to IPO.” General Catalyst is on of the biggest names in the venture industry. They’ve raised 15 funds dating back to 2001. The team invests in companies across every sector, in every stage, across the globe. A few of their most popular investments include: Stripe Warby Parker Hubspot Airbnb Location: Cambridge, MA – New York – London – San Francisco Related Resource: Exploring the Top 10 Venture Capital Firms in New York City Learn more about General Catalyst by checking out their Visible Connect profile → 2. Battery Ventures As put by the team at Battery Ventures, “We back founders and talented teams at all stages of growth, from startups to established market leaders. We are currently investing from our 14th flagship fund, Battery Ventures XIV, and companion fund Select Fund II, together capitalized at a combined $3.8 billion.” Focus and industry: Battery Ventures invests in many sectors but specifically mentions application software, infrastructure software, consumer, and industrial tech on their website. Funding stage: The team at Battery Ventures invests in companies across all stages Battery Ventures has been investing since 1983. Over their 40 years of investing, they’ve funded 450+ companies. Battery Ventures will invest in companies across all stages across the globe. Check out a few of their most popular investments below: Affirm Amplitude Invision Location: Boston – San Francisco – Menlo Park – Tel Aviv – London – New York City Related Resource: 15 Venture Capital Firms in London Fueling Startup Growth 3. Polaris Partners As put by the team at Polaris Partners, “Since 1996, Polaris has been guided by the fundamental beliefs that people come first and true partnerships make all the difference. Rooted in mutual respect and a shared passion for innovation, our relationships with outstanding visionaries principally in technology and healthcare have helped to change the world for the better.” Focus and industry: The team at Polaris is focused on healthcare and life science/biotechnology companies Related Resource: The Top VCs Investing in BioTech (plus the metrics they want to see) Funding stage: The team at Polaris Partners does not publicly stage their stage focus. Polaris Partners has been funding healthcare businesses for 20+ years. Polaris has raised 10 funds focused on funding companies in healthcare and technology. A few of their most popular investments include: Syros SimplyInsured Amunix Location: Boston – New York – San Francisco 4. Summit Partners As put by their team, “Summit Partners was founded in 1984 with a commitment to find and partner with exceptional entrepreneurs to help them accelerate their growth and achieve dramatic results. Since then, Summit has become the investment partner of choice for many of the best growth companies in the world. We’ve grown to a team of more than 115 investment professionals, led by Managing Directors and Partners whose tenures average more than 16 years with Summit. We have the capital and team to support your growth initiatives.” Focus and industry: Summit Partners is focused on technology, healthcare & life science, and growth products Funding stage: The team at Summit Partners is focused on growth-stage companies and typically writes checks between $10M and $500M As put by their team, “We invest around the world and have portfolio companies in North and South America, Europe, Asia, Australia, and Africa. Based from offices in North America and Europe, our team travels the globe in search of growing companies and the resources to support them.” A few of their most popular investments include: WebEx Uber Reverb Location: Boston, MA 5. .406 Ventures As put by the team at .406 Ventures, “We invest in opportunities where we understand the need and your company’s technology solution; where we have deep, relevant networks; and where we believe we can add disproportionate value as a partner, investor, and board member. Our initial investments are typically between $2 and $5 million with substantial additional capital reserved for follow-on investment.” Focus and industry: The team at .406 Ventures focuses on cybersecurity, digital health, and data & cloud companies. Funding stage: .406 Ventures is focused on early-stage companies and typically writes checks between $2M and $5M. As put by their team, “When we were building our own entrepreneurial companies, we found that it was often our independent board members, not the VC board members, who contributed the most value. Invariably, it was the independent board members who had the deep experience and strong operational networks—and who had been in our shoes. At .406, we aim to bring these qualities, in addition to capital, to every one of our portfolio companies. It is our goal to be the most valuable member on your board.” Some of their most popular investments include: Compass Nomad Health Randori Location: Boston, MA 6. OpenView According to their team, “OpenView, the expansion stage venture firm, helps build software companies into market leaders. Through our Expansion Platform, we help companies hire the best talent, acquire and retain the right customers and partner with industry leaders so they can dominate their markets. Our focus on the expansion stage makes us uniquely suited to provide truly tailored operational support to our portfolio companies.” Focus and industry: OpenView Partners is focused on companies that are “changing the future of work.” Related Resource: 15+ VCs Investing in the Future of Work Funding stage: OpenView Partners is focused on expansion-stage companies. OpenView is largely associated with “product-led growth” and has backed some of the most prolific and successful SaaS companies. With their focus on the future of work companies + expansion stage companies, OpenView offers resources to help companies tackle all aspects of expansion stage growth. A few of their most popular investments include: Calendly Lessonly Datadog Location: Boston, MA 7. 1414 Ventures As put by their team, “1414 Ventures is focused solely on the digital identity space which supports functions such as payments, cybersecurity, and data privacy & trust. Given the exponential surge in virtual and digital transactions/interactions over the last year combined with increased security, fraud prevention, and privacy needs, there is a huge opportunity for next-generation digital identity startups.” Focus and industry: 1414 Ventures invests in companies that are “focused on creating innovative digital identity solutions.” Funding stage: Pre-seed and seed-stage companies 1414 Ventures has an intense focus on companies that are developing the future of digital identity. Some of 1414 Ventures’ most popular investments are: SingularKey Tautuk SwiftConnect Location: Boston, MA 8. Mendoza Ventures As put by their team, “Mendoza Ventures is an early and growth stage Fintech, AI, and Cybersecurity venture fund that provides an actively managed approach to VC. We invest in areas where we have deep domain expertise, companies with early revenue, a clear value proposition, and use a proven due diligence model. We focus on diversity as playing an important role in our investment decisions, as roughly 75% of our portfolio consists of start-ups led by immigrants, people of color, and women.” Focus and industry: Mendoza is focused on Fintech, AI, and Cybersecurity companies. Funding stage: Mendoza Ventures is focused on early and growth-stage companies On their website, Mendoza further explains their background and foundation, “Based in Boston, Mendoza Ventures is women-owned and the first LatinX-owned venture fund on the East Coast. The firm is run by husband and wife Adrian and Senofer Mendoza, entrepreneurs and prior operators who are veterans of the Boston start-up ecosystem.” Some of their most popular investments include: Canvas Senso Daylight Location: Boston – San Francisco 9. HLM Venture Partners As put by their team, “HLM provides venture capital to early- to mid-stage health care information technology, health care services, and medical device companies. HLM has helped over 75 privately-held health care companies turn innovative ideas into market-leading businesses. The Company’s investment professionals have over 125 years of collective expertise in the health care industry, an accumulation of knowledge and experience that is invaluable to the leadership of its portfolio companies.” Focus and industry: HLM Venture Partners are focused on healthcare services and companies. Funding stage: HLM offers early to mid-stage capital. HLM Venture Partners has invested in 75+ companies. Some of their most popular investments are: Able To Blue Rabbit Tebra Location: Waltham, MA 10. Venrock As put by the team at Venrock, “Originally established as the venture capital arm of the Rockefeller family in 1969, Venrock partners with entrepreneurs to build some of the world’s most disruptive, successful companies. With a primary focus on technology and healthcare.” Focus and industry: The team at Venrock is focused on investing in technology and healthcare companies Funding stage: Venrock invests across all stages Venrock is an original player in the venture capital space. Over their history, they have invested in 700 companies and have raised 10 funds. They’ve invested in some of the most prolific companies such as: Apple Nest Zoominfo Location: New York – Palo Alto 11. Third Rock Ventures As put by the team at Third Rock Ventures, “To achieve what hadn’t been done before, we created a process that hadn’t been done before. By starting with big ideas and fostering collaboration among brilliant people with expertise in science, medicine, business, and strategy, we set out to do more than fund startups – we aim to build sustainable, innovative companies that can transform the lives of patients.” Focus and industry: Third Rock Ventures focuses on biotechnology companies Funding stage: Third Rock Ventures does not publicly list a specific stage or check size As put by their team, “We build our companies on a solid foundation, instilling core values and a commitment to a great culture. Our companies are based on bold ideas that meet at the intersection of science, business, medicine, and strategy – where transformational science meets operational rigor – providing the best opportunity to make a dramatic difference in patient’s lives.” Some of their most popular investments include: Celsius Faze Medicines Moma Location: Boston – San Francisco 12. Boston Seed Capital Boston Seed Capital is a well-established venture capital firm dedicated to investing in early-stage technology companies. With a focus on fostering innovation and growth, Boston Seed Capital provides not only financial support but also strategic guidance and resources to help startups thrive. Founders working with Boston Seed Capital benefit from the firm’s extensive network, expertise, and commitment to building successful businesses. Focus and industry: Boston Seed Capital primarily focuses on technology-driven industries. They invest in sectors such as software, digital media, e-commerce, and internet services. The firm is particularly interested in companies that leverage innovative technologies to disrupt traditional markets and create new opportunities. Funding stage: They typically invest in early-stage companies, including pre-seed and seed rounds. Their investment amounts generally range from $250,000 to $2.5 million in seed rounds. Location: Located in the heart of Boston on Atlantic Avenue. 13. Boston Millenia Partners Boston Millenia Partners is a distinguished venture capital firm known for its strategic investments in innovative companies. With a strong track record of identifying and nurturing high-potential businesses, Boston Millenia Partners is dedicated to providing both financial support and strategic expertise. Founders partnering with this firm benefit from their deep industry knowledge, extensive network, and a collaborative approach to building successful enterprises. Focus and industry: Boston Millenia Partners primarily focuses on industries such as healthcare, life sciences, and technology. They are particularly interested in companies that are at the forefront of medical innovations, digital health solutions, and advanced technological developments. Funding stage: Boston Millenia Partners typically invests in later-stage companies, including growth and expansion stages but they also invest in seed rounds. They provide substantial financial backing, with investment amounts generally ranging from $1 million to $15 million. Location: Located in the bustling financial district of Boston on Federal Street. 14. Beacon Angels Beacon Angels is a Boston-based angel investment group dedicated to supporting early-stage, fast-growing companies in New England. Founded in 2006, Beacon Angels brings together experienced investors who provide not only financial support but also strategic advice and mentorship to help startups succeed. The group is known for its collaborative approach, leveraging the collective expertise and networks of its members to foster innovation and growth in the companies they back. Focus and industry: Beacon Angels primarily focuses on a diverse range of industries, including technology, software, IT, health care, biotechnology, consumer goods Funding stage: Beacon Angels typically invests in early-stage companies, providing seed and early-round funding. Their investment amounts usually range from $50,000 to $400,000 per company. Location: Located in the heart of Boston, offering easy access to the city’s vibrant startup ecosystem, their office is situated on Federal Street. 15. Underscore VC Underscore VC is a Boston-based venture capital firm founded in 2015. The firm is committed to backing bold entrepreneurs at the early stages, particularly in the B2B software sector. With a focus on creating a supportive community, Underscore VC connects founders with experienced operators, executives, and entrepreneurs to provide strategic guidance and resources. Their approach is designed to help startups navigate the challenges of growth and scale effectively. Focus and industry: Underscore VC primarily focuses on B2B software companies. Their investment interests span various sectors, including SaaS, fintech, AI, cloud computing, and logistics. Companies in their portfolio often originate from top academic institutions such as Harvard and MIT, reflecting their strong ties to the academic and tech communities in Boston​​​​. Funding stage: Underscore VC invests in pre-seed, seed, Series A, Series B, and Series C companies. Their sweet spot check size is $4 million but will also invest up to $10 million. Their investment strategy is aimed at helping startups achieve key milestones, such as product development, market validation, and early customer acquisition, which are crucial for attracting further investment and scaling the business​​​​. Location: Underscore VC is headquartered in the historic Old City Hall on School Street. 16. Volition Capital Volition Capital is a Boston-based growth equity firm that principally invests in high-growth, founder-owned companies across the software, Internet, and consumer sectors. Founded in 2010, Volition has over $1.1 billion in assets under management and has invested in over 30 companies in the United States and Canada. The firm selectively partners with founders to help them achieve their fullest aspirations for their businesses. Focus and industry: Volition Capital focuses on several high growth key industries, including software, internet services, and consumer sectors. The firm has a strong emphasis on technology-driven businesses, particularly those in SaaS , fintech, cybersecurity, digital health, and e-commerce. Funding stage: Volition Capital typically invests in growth-stage companies, providing capital in the range of $10 million to $20 million per investment. Their funding is aimed at accelerating growth, expanding market presence, and enabling shareholder liquidity. The firm seeks to take meaningful minority ownership stakes and often secures board positions to actively participate in the strategic direction of the companies they back​​​​. Location: Volition Capital is headquartered on Huntington Avenue, Boston. Find investors in Boston with Visible As we previously mentioned, a venture fundraise oftentimes mirrors a traditional B2B sales and marketing funnel. Just as sales and marketing teams have dedicated tools to track their funnel, shouldn’t founders have dedicated tools to manage their most important asset – equity? With Visible, you can track and manage every part of your fundraising funnel. Find investors at the top of your funnel with Visible Connect, our free investor database Add them directly to your fundraising pipeline directly in Visible Share your pitch deck and data room with investors in your pipeline Send Updates to current and potential investors to keep them engaged with the progress of your business. Take your investor relations to the next level with Visible. Give Visible a free try for 14 days here.

On the eighth episode of the Thrive Through Connection Podcast, we welcome Andrew Dumont. Andrew is the Founder and CEO of Curious, a long-term holding company that buys and grows software companies with empathy. Andrew joins us to discuss the economics of venture capital and what it means for founders starting companies today. About Andrew Before Curious, Andrew founded and exited multiple companies, served as CEO of Stamped, and worked in venture at Tiny Capital. His journey led him to a powerful insight: many great businesses fall between the cracks of traditional venture. Curious was built for them. Mike, our CEO, had an opportunity to sit down and chat with Andrew, who brings a rare perspective: founder, investor, acquirer. In this conversation, Andrew shares a candid take on the economics of venture capital—and what happens when your company doesn’t become a power law success story. You can give the full episode a listen below: Spotify Link Apple Link What You Can Expect to Learn from Andrew How the power law shapes venture capital Why many great businesses can’t raise their next round Alternative paths for founders post-venture How Curious supports sustainable software companies Want more stories like this? Head to the Thrive Through Connection Hub for every past and upcoming episode.

What is a Portfolio Review Meeting in Venture Capital A portfolio review meeting in the context of Venture Capital is a dedicated time for the investment and operational team members at an investment firm to align on recent updates across the portfolio. Other purposes of this meeting are to exchange cross-functional insights and coordinate the best ways to support portfolio companies. Check out this sample agenda that is similar to what is used by Visible customers. Who Typically Leads Portfolio Review Meetings? Portfolio review meetings can be led by anyone at the firm but since the meetings are largely focused on updates about portfolio companies, it is often led by the person responsible for collecting and synthesizing updates from portfolio companies on a regular basis. At a smaller firm, this person may be a Partner, and at a larger VC firm, this person often has the title of Platform Manager, Director of Portfolio Operations, or someone in finance. Ultimately, it should be led by someone with a wide-lens view of what is going on across the portfolio. Related Resource –> Portfolio Data Collection Tips for VCs Portfolio Review Meeting Frequency According to a poll led by Visible, 50% of VC’s are hosting Portfolio Review Meetings on a quarterly basis, followed by 29% weekly, and 14% monthly. The frequency of this meeting largely depends on the size of your portfolio company and how hands-on you are with your companies. A quarterly frequency makes sense for most VC firms because 70% of investors are collecting structured data from their companies on a quarterly basis. (Source data is aggregated usage data on Visible’s portfolio monitoring platform used by 660+ VC funds). How Investors Are Leveraging Visible to Enhance Portfolio Review Meetings Visible makes it simple to centralize your fund and portfolio company performance so you can conduct your Portfolio Review Meetings in the solution! For a step-by-step resource on how to run your portfolio review meeting in Visible, refer to this guide. VKAV’s Portfolio Company Dashboards Verod-Kepple Africa Ventures (VKAV), a long-term Visible user, hosts a formal Portfolio Review Meeting on a quarterly basis. During this meeting, Portfolio Review Committee members join to review the performance of the portfolio companies during the quarter. Additionally, VKAV’s investment team holds an internal Portfolio Review Meeting every other week. Right now, the purpose of this meeting is mostly to check the status of action items (either for VKAV or the portfolio company). VKAV keeps track of open action items directly on a company’s dashboard in Visible so that it is linked to the broader context of how the company is performing. How Emergence Capital Uses Visible for Portfolio Review Meetings Emergence Capital has transformed its portfolio review process by embracing Visible’s powerful KPI tracking and portfolio monitoring tools. As Andrew Crinnion, Emergence’s Director of Portfolio Analysis, puts it, “Visible streamlines our data collection process, providing a centralized source for all portfolio information,”. By pulling consistent, timely data from their companies, they enter meetings with clarity and agility, minimizing manual prep, elevating transparency, and enabling sharper, data-informed discussions with LPs. Visible’s seamless workflow turns what used to be hours of spreadsheet wrangling into strategic storytelling grounded in metrics. Check out how Emergence Capital turns portfolio data into their advantage. 01 Advisors Approach to Portfolio Review Meetings 01 Advisors a San Francisco-based venture firm utilizes Visible’s Request feature to streamline the way they collect data from companies on a quarterly basis. The team meets 1-2 times per quarter for an internal Portfolio Review meeting. Check out their meeting agenda outline below. 01 Advisors Portfolio Review Meeting Agenda Investment Strategy Portfolio Company Categorization Reserve Allocation Strategy Portfolio Company Support Learn more about how 01 Advisors uses Visible for the internal portfolio review meetings in this video.

Portfolio reviews aren’t just check-ins — they’re decision-making engines. Without a clear agenda, calls can drift into endless updates with no clear next steps. The right structure keeps discussions focused, data-driven, and primed for action. At Visible, we’ve seen hundreds of firms use a similar framework to turn portfolio reviews into strategic power hours. Here’s how: 1. Kick Off with Clarity Open with the meeting focus — quarterly performance, capital allocation, operational health. State key decisions needed (follow-ons, exits, support). Cover quick big-picture updates (fundraising, LP news, major hires). 2. Fund Performance at a Glance Review IRR, DPI, TVPI vs. benchmarks. Check portfolio construction and reserves to spot concentration risks. Flag diversification gaps and emerging threats. 3. Company Deep Dives For each company: Key financials — revenue, burn, runway. Market moves — product launches, partnerships, competitive shifts, regulations. Customer health — acquisition, retention, churn, NPS. Team stability — leadership changes, key hires. Capital & strategy needs — funding runway, follow-on potential. 4. Cross-Portfolio Wins & Challenges Spot patterns and shared roadblocks. Launch value-add programs — hiring support, sales intros, shared services. Share success stories to replicate wins. 5. Strategy & Decisions Lock in follow-on investments and exit plans. Adjust fund strategy where needed. Address underperformers head-on. 6. Clear Action Items Assign owners and deadlines. Set communication plans for LPs and internal teams. Use the Agenda A great agenda turns portfolio reviews from information dumps into action plans. It ensures you leave with clarity, accountability, and momentum. Download our VC Portfolio Review Agenda to start running sharper, faster, more effective meetings.

Portfolio reviews are crucial for venture capital firms to make informed decisions, support portfolio companies, and communicate fund performance to LPs. Whether you’re an experienced Visible user or a first-time VC looking to streamline these sessions, proper preparation and effective use of Visible can transform your reviews into actionable, insightful conversations. In this post, we’ll cover: Pre-review steps to ensure accurate, actionable data A link to a standard portfolio review agenda with VC best practices How to use Visible during the meeting to capture insights and create a lasting record Pre-Review: Setting the Foundation for Success An effective portfolio review starts well before everyone sits down. Here’s how to prepare with Visible: 1. Gather Structured Data with Requests and AI Inbox Consistent, structured data is the backbone of your review. Create a repeatable data request process to collect the 5–15 key metrics quarterly that move the needle the most for your portfolio companies. Additionally, it’s common to ask for qualitative updates from companies as well to ensure you have a holistic view of how a company is performing. With Visible AI, founders can upload files directly to your request, and the platform parses and prefills the data automatically to minimize manual entry and make it a seamless experience for your founders. You’ll likely still receive updates via email from some founder, and the AI Inbox is the answer. Simply forward emails to Visible’s AI Inbox to parse and upload the data directly to the portfolio company's profile in your Visible account. Learn more about building a scalable data collection workflow → 2. Set Up Metric Alerts Metric alerts will notify you when a company’s metrics hit predefined thresholds, allowing you to flag risks or opportunities before the meeting. You can view all alerts in the alerts log to see which portfolio companies require immediate attention. How to set up metric alerts for investors → 3. Update Investment Data Accurate investment records ensure fund-level metrics (like IRR, TVPI, DPI) reflect reality. With Visible, you can: Add rounds and transactions individually (guide) or bulk upload them (guide).As your position values change over time, mark up the Fair Market Values (FMVs) directly in Visible (guide). When you exit a position, follow the native workflow (guide) to record the correct holdings in the portfolio company. Finally, add any manual fund-level inputs to ensure your fund-level metrics remain accurate Fund and company investment data definitions → 4. Design Dashboards and Tear Sheets Dashboards make data actionable during your VC portfolio reviews. Visible supports four dashboard types: Flexible Dashboards: Track multiple companies, fund data, or a single company with no space restrictions Tear Sheets: One-page export-friendly summaries (tear sheet guide) Fund Performance Dashboard: Auto-generated template displaying your fund data (guide) Benchmark Dashboard: Compare portfolio companies by a single metric (guide) Use dashboard templates to scale views across your portfolio (template guide). Define the Portfolio Review Agenda A clear and organized agenda is important to ensure focus, alignment, and productive discussion. By outlining objectives, key topics, and expected decisions, it helps participants prepare and engage effectively. Here is a sample agenda to run an effective portfolio review. Why it works:The flow from fund performance review to company deep dives and strategic planning supports informed decision-making. Then, ending with clear action items, responsibilities, and timelines promotes accountability and follow-through, to help turn discussion into measurable results. Using Visible During the Portfolio Review To make the review actionable and leave a lasting record, add qualitative notes and commentary. Use Visible Notes to document discussion points, action items, and strategic decisions directly in each company’s profile. Add custom properties to dashboards for qualitative data and the change log will help you track how these inputs evolve over time (view change log guide). Review Outstanding Metric Alerts During the meeting, open the metric alerts log to address flagged issues in real time. Add any necessary context to notes and custom properties for continuity in future reviews. Navigate Dashboards Seamlessly Use dashboard templates to quickly switch between companies Reference tear sheets for concise summaries Compare metrics side-by-side in the benchmark dashboard This structured approach keeps discussions focused and ensures nothing falls through the cracks. Final Thoughts By following these steps and leveraging Visible’s features, your portfolio reviews can shift from being status updates to strategic decision-making sessions backed by accurate data and actionable insights. For Non-Visible Users Not using Visible yet? Book a personalized demo to see how our platform can transform your portfolio reviews. For Current Visible Customers Already a Visible customer? Connect with your Customer Success Manager to design a tailored strategy and unlock the full potential of Visible for your next portfolio review session.

Advertising startups are entering a pivotal window. Despite tighter late-stage funding, early-stage investing in AI-native AdTech/MarTech, retail media, and privacy-centric infrastructure remains active, driven by shifting consumer behavior, the rise of new channels, and the urgent need for better measurement. Global ad spend continues to hit new highs, and brands are reallocating budgets toward performance and commerce media—opening clear opportunities for startups that can prove outcomes and scale responsibly. What’s different now is the mix of tailwinds and constraints founders must navigate. The deprecation of third-party cookies, signal loss on major platforms, and evolving privacy regimes are forcing a re-architecture of the ad stack. At the same time, breakthroughs in generative AI and automation are compressing creative and operations cycles, while retail media networks and connected TV (CTV) create fresh inventory and first-party data access. Investors are backing founders who can turn these structural shifts into durable advantages with defensible data, interoperable integrations, and provable incrementality. Three forces define the opportunity in 2025. First, budgets are following channels with measurable ROI: retail media and commerce-driven advertising are among the fastest-growing categories, supported by closed-loop sales data. Second, AI is moving beyond copy and images into targeting, bid optimization, and media planning—making full-stack automation and creative-performance feedback loops a core differentiator rather than a nice-to-have. Third, privacy-by-design is now table stakes for enterprise sales; startups that can operate with consented first-party data, clean rooms, and modern identity frameworks unlock global brand and retailer partnerships. For founders raising capital, the bar is higher but clearer. Investors want crisp unit economics (gross vs. net revenue recognition, payback, retention), a credible go-to-market motion that fits brands, agencies, and retail media partners, and a moat grounded in proprietary data or workflow lock-in. Platform dependency risk must be addressed head-on with multi-channel strategies that include open web, CTV/streaming, and retail media. Compliance and security posture need to be part of your pitch, not an afterthought, to accelerate enterprise diligence and shorten sales cycles. In this guide you’ll find an up-to-date list of top global VCs actively investing in advertising-focused startups. We’ll cover the trends shaping the market, the technology shifts that matter, and the investor criteria that win term sheets. You’ll get a practical playbook on GTM, measurement, clean rooms, and compliance, plus cross-border fundraising tips, key accelerators and events, and exit pathways. With this information you can sharpen your narrative, strengthen your data room, and target the right investors with confidence. Top Global VCs Investing in Advertising Startups Aperiam About: Driving the Future of Advertising and Marketing Technology. Aperiam is the leading adtech and martech venture capital firm. In addition to venture capital, we offer advisory and technology orchestration services to drive outcomes for both our portfolio companies and their customers: brands, agencies, media owners, and other tech companies. Aperiam is led and backed by the adtech and martech entrepreneurs and operators who built the industry. North Base Media About: An investment firm focused on journalistic enterprise and digital-driven opportunities in emerging markets. Sweetspot check size: $ 750K Thesis: Digital media in global growth markets; engagement and monetization software NDRC About: NDRC is a business that transforms entrepreneurial teams and ideas into startups with early investment and research help. We're an Accelerator providing €100k SAFE to ~10 companies per cohort. Traction metrics requirements: Pre-seed. Team and Opportunity Thesis: Digital B2B Mature founders with deep domain knowledge Circadian Ventures About: Venture capital firm investing in early-stage tech and tech-enabled businesses. We actively partner with exceptional entrepreneurs to build enduring businesses. Circadian Ventures has investments in various sectors across the United States. Ground Up Ventures About: Our relationship with our founders is one in which we intend to grow together, learn from each other, and hold each other accountable. We check our egos at the door and jump into the trenches with you as you build your business. Sweetspot check size: $ 500K Thesis: We partner with extraordinary founders building transformational companies from the ground up. Expert DOJO About: Expert DOJO is a startup accelerator based in Santa Monica. Sweetspot check size: $ 100K Traction metrics requirements: MVP Thesis: Our mission is to help entrepreneurs at the early stages of your startup’s development to achieve your goals and more. Ridge Ventures About: Ridge Ventures is a fast, flexible, and founder-focused early stage venture capital fund. Sweetspot check size: $ 5M Watkins Bay About: Watkins Bay assist Founders and Entrepreneurs realise their dreams by providing all the help they need too succeed, specialising in Go To Market for Hypergrowth . Sweetspot check size: $ 500K Traction metrics requirements: 20% CGMR digitalundivided About: At digitalundivided, we use original, proprietary research to develop a data-driven ecosystem that expands the current body of knowledge about entrepreneurship in emerging communities. Sweetspot check size: $ 5K Thesis: Founded in 2012, digitalundivided is the leading non-profit leveraging our data, programs, and advocacy to catalyze economic growth for Latina and Black women entrepreneurs and innovators. Our goal is to create a greater world in which all women of color own their work and worth. Our mission moves the entrepreneurial ecosystem forward, to increase funding, access, and opportunities for women of color in business and innovation. Key Element Capital About: At Key Element Capital, we’re dedicated to fueling the future of gaming, casino, and sportsbook innovations. As seasoned investors and industry enthusiasts, we’re passionate about discovering and supporting the next generation of gaming disruptors. Unit Economics & Revenue Quality Investors Expect Why Revenue Quality Matters in Ad/MarTech Advertising startups often blend software, data, and media. Investors differentiate between high-margin, repeatable platform revenue and pass-through media dollars. Clear disclosure of what’s true platform/technology revenue versus media spend is essential for comparability, margin analysis, and valuatio. Gross vs. Net Revenue Recognition Be explicit about when you recognize revenue on a gross versus net basis. If you control the media buy and set pricing, you may record gross; if you’re acting as an agent or facilitating spend, you typically record net (platform fee/take rate). Disclose take rates, rebates, and usage components so investors can normalize your P&L and metrics package. Media-In vs. Media-Out Models Media-in models (you purchase and resell media) can inflate top-line but compress gross margin and increase working-capital needs. Media-out models (SaaS, usage-based API, or take rate) generally yield higher gross margins and simpler recognition. Many ad startups run hybrids; if so, break out revenue and margin by line of business so investors can assess LTV, valuation multiple fit, and risk profile. CAC, LTV, and Payback the Way VCs Calculate Them Standardize CAC by channel and segment. Include sales cycle length, win rates, ACV by segment, and fully loaded sales/marketing costs. For LTV, anchor on gross margin dollars, realistic expansion assumptions, and observed churn, not aspirational. Early-stage investors often look for sub-12–18 month payback; growth investors favor <12 months with line of sight to single-digit months in core segments. Show how pilots/POCs convert to production and expand ACV to validate your payback logic. Cohort Quality, NRR, and Retention Present monthly or quarterly cohorts by vertical and product module. Separate expansion from new ARR to illuminate land-and-expand. Strong B2B adtech/martech signals include expanding cohorts after initial pilots and NRR above 110–120% in core ICPs; if seasonality depresses certain cohorts, explain why and how you counterbalance with multi-vertical mix. Customer Concentration and Seasonality Flag if any single brand, agency holding company, or retailer exceeds 10–15% of revenue and outline diversification plans. Normalize seasonality by showing TTM metrics, Q/Q bridges, and usage-adjusted gross margin. Clarify campaign-driven spikes and retention through non-cancelable terms or always-on contracts. Pricing Architecture and Margins Choose a model that aligns value with outcomes and supports margin expansion over time: platform subscription plus usage, take rate on spend, seats for workflow tools, or outcome-based fees tied to verified conversions/incrementality. Disclose discounts, credits, and rebates to avoid surprises in diligence. Track gross margin by product line and show how automation, AI-driven ops, and cloud efficiency will lift margins as you scale. The Metrics Pack for Your Data Room Include a GAAP P&L with gross/net reconciliation, revenue by product line and model (SaaS, usage, media), cohort tables with retention/expansion, CAC/LTV and payback by segment and channel, NRR/logo retention, gross margin by line of business, pipeline coverage and win rates by stage, channel mix with platform dependency exposure, and verified outcomes/incrementality studies to substantiate renewals. These artifacts let investors underwrite revenue durability and path to profitability (IAB/PwC measurement and revenue trends. Global Trends in Advertising Startup Fundraising (2025 and Beyond) AI Moves From Experimentation to Production Generative and predictive AI are now embedded in creative workflows, media planning, and bid optimization, with brands prioritizing tools that prove incrementality and compress time-to-value. Startups that pair proprietary data with measurable ROI and tight workflow integrations are attracting early-stage interest. Retail Media and CTV Outpace Overall Ad Growth Retail media remains the fastest-growing channel globally thanks to first-party shopper data and closed-loop attribution, while CTV/streaming expands with more addressable inventory and shoppable formats. These dynamics create openings for retail media infrastructure, off-site activation, commerce creative automation, CTV verification, and cross-device identity. Privacy and Identity Reshape Product Roadmaps Third-party cookie deprecation and tighter data protection enforcement are accelerating first-party data strategies, privacy-enhancing technologies, and clean room adoption. Enterprise buyers now expect privacy-by-design, interoperable identity, and consented activation as table stakes. Cross-Border Capital Is Selective but Active US and European investors are backing non-domestic teams with strong traction, particularly in Europe, India, and Southeast Asia, where digital ad growth outpaces mature markets. To win cross-border capital, founders must show localization readiness. Later-Stage Selectivity Favors Durable Economics Growth rounds prioritize efficient payback, healthy NRR, and diversified channel mix with limited platform concentration risk. Startups that demonstrate profitable unit economics by channel or vertical, plus margin expansion via automation and data moats, clear diligence more consistently. Defensibility & Moats in Advertising Tech What to Show Investors Investors look for proof, not promises. In your deck and data room, include: a description of your proprietary datasets and how they’re ethically sourced; an integration map showing depth across DSPs/retail media/CDPs/clouds; third-party-verified performance lift and incrementality; a compliance and security roadmap with milestones (e.g., SOC 2); case studies demonstrating retention and resistance to switching; and evidence of channel diversification beyond any single walled garden. Proprietary Data and Data Network Effects Defensibility starts with unique, consented datasets that competitors can’t easily replicate. High-value sources include first-party behavioral data, commerce and SKU-level signals, contextual and creative performance metadata, and privacy-safe retail media and CTV exposure logs. Pair data assets with a clear value exchange and robust consent management so data volume and quality improve as usage scales, creating a compounding model advantage. Workflow Lock-In Through Deep Integrations Embedding into the daily stack increases switching costs. Integrate natively with ad servers, DSPs/SSPs, retail media platforms, CDPs, cloud data warehouses, and BI tools, and expose activation via APIs and connectors so your product becomes a system of record rather than a point solution. Align with industry specs—OpenRTB, Prebid, transparency and supply chain standards—to reduce friction and win enterprise procurement. Model Performance Advantages and Continuous Learning A sustainable moat requires measurable lift versus baselines and incumbents. Build continuous learning loops—online learning, multi-armed bandits, and constrained optimization—that adapt to noisy, privacy-limited environments. Validate model advantage with incrementality tests, geo-experiments, and MMM triangulation, and report outcome metrics that withstand scrutiny in diligence and enterprise MSA renewals. Compliance, Trust, and Security as a Competitive Moat Enterprise buyers reward vendors who reduce risk. Make privacy-by-design, consent frameworks (GDPR/CCPA/CPRA), and clear data processing agreements part of your core product story. Maintain a SOC 2 roadmap and readiness to answer IT security questionnaires. Implement brand safety, fraud/IVT mitigation, and supply chain transparency to unlock larger-brand budgets and premium inventory access. Marketplace Liquidity and Two-Sided Network Effects If you operate a platform connecting advertisers with creators, retailers, or publishers, liquidity and quality control are your moat. Focus early on governance (verification, rating systems, SLAs), incentive design that rewards high-quality participation, and tooling that reduces cold-start friction. As both sides scale, matching efficiency and data richness improve, increasing defensibility and margin. Interoperability and Ecosystem Standards Winning vendors “play nice” with the ecosystem. Support major identity frameworks used in the market (such as UID2/SCID where applicable), leading clean rooms, and cloud/CDP connectors so customers can deploy you across multiple regions and partners without re-architecting. Interoperability is becoming a buying criterion in RFPs, especially for multinational brands and retailers. Find VCs Investing in Advertising Companies with Visible Visible helps founders connect with investors using our connect investor database, find VCs specifically investing in Advertising here. For Advertising startups, securing the right investors is critical as it goes beyond mere funding. These investors bring specialized expertise and strategic insights specific to the Advertising sector, and their guidance is invaluable in navigating the unique challenges and opportunities within the space. Use Visible to manage every part of your fundraising funnel with investor updates, fundraising pipelines, pitch deck sharing, and data rooms. Raise capital, update investors, and engage your team from a single platform. Try Visible free for 14 days.

Raising venture capital for an e-commerce startup in 2025 is both more challenging—and more promising—than ever before. The global e-commerce market is projected to reach USD 73.52 trillion by 2030, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of about 19.2 percent, fueled by rapid adoption of AI-driven retail technology, the explosive growth of social commerce platforms like TikTok Shop, and increasing cross-border buying habits. Yet with these opportunities come new challenges: investors are becoming more selective in the wake of tighter capital markets, competition is intensifying across borders, and customer acquisition costs remain at historically high levels. For founders, navigating this evolving investment landscape means more than knowing your financial metrics—it requires understanding current fundraising trends, identifying the right venture capital partners, and positioning your business to thrive in multiple markets. Whether you’re launching a DTC brand in Europe, building a B2B e-commerce platform in Southeast Asia, or scaling a marketplace in North America, securing the right funding at the right time can be the deciding factor in your long-term success. This guide compiles the top venture capital firms actively investing in e-commerce startups globally—sourced from our connect investor database and reports – alongside e-commerce-specific fundraising strategies, pitch tips, and global networking resources. Backed by up-to-date research, this is your go-to playbook for raising capital and scaling your e-commerce venture. Top VCs Investing in E-commerce Startups Imag/nary Ventures About: Founded by Natalie Massenet and Nick Brown, Imaginary Ventures is venture capital firm that invests in early–stage opportunities at the intersection of retail and technology in Europe and the US. Ascend About: Ascend is the most active pre-seed venture capital fund in the Pacific Northwest. Thesis: Pre-seed investor in marketplace, consumer brands, E-commerce, and B2B software. 14W About: 14W is a venture capital firm specializing in consumer internet, marketplace, E-commerce, CPG, and media. RevTech Ventures About: RevTech Ventures is a venture capital fund with a focus of early-stage investments at the intersection of retail and technology. We make dozens of small, initial investments, with larger follow-on investments in those companies that demonstrate rapid growth and sustainable advantage. We provide year-round content and support led by our managementteam and our large pool of world-class mentors. Thesis: We invest in technologies and concepts that help the retail industry adapt in the age of Amazon. Mu Ventures About: Early stage venture capital investing in the future of commerce. Thesis: Investing where Vertical AI meets Agentic Commerce. Powering the next era of frictionless transactions. - Commerce infrastructure - Vertical AI and marketplaces - Consumer software, AI-native brands 1984 Ventures About: 1984 Ventures is an early-stage venture capital firm proptech, fintech, healthcare, marketplace, SaaS, e-commerce, and consumer. Thesis: Looking for companies from pre-revenue to 100k+ in MRR Act One Ventures About: Seed stage fund focused on enterprise software and research from LA Universities. We believe in community, diversity, and Los Angeles. Sweetspot check size: $ 1M Thesis: Investing in capital-efficient companies with excellent founder-market fit AppWorks About: Based in Taiwan, AppWorks is the largest startup accelerator in Greater Southeast Asia and one of the region's most active early-stage VCs. Detroit Venture Partners About: Detroit Venture Partners is an American venture capital firm that funds seed- and early-stage technology companies. Sweetspot check size: $ 250K Thesis: Detroit Venture Partners is an American venture capital firm that funds seed- and early-stage technology companies. Harlem Capital About: Harlem Capital is an early-stage venture firm that invests in post-revenue tech-enabled startups, focused on minority and women founders. Sweetspot check size: $ 750K Traction metrics requirements: Post product ($6k+ MRR pref) Thesis: Women or POC founders (no deep tech, bio, crypto, hardware) Global E-Commerce Resources, Accelerators, and Networking Opportunities While capital is crucial, access to the right networks, mentorship, and market entry opportunities can be just as valuable for e-commerce founders. The global ecosystem offers a wide range of accelerators, incubators, events, and communities designed to help founders refine their business models, connect with investors, and scale internationally. Leading Global Accelerators and Programs for E-Commerce Founders Y Combinator — While not exclusively focused on e-commerce, Y Combinator has backed multiple category-defining companies like Stripe and DoorDash. Its global reach, network, and investor access make it a strong launchpad for founders with scalable e-commerce models. Techstars — Techstars runs retail and commerce-focused accelerators in partnership with major corporations, offering mentorship and early-stage investment. One being Techstars Future of E-commerce Powered by eBay Announces Inaugural Cohort. Plug and Play — Based in Silicon Valley with offices worldwide, this program connects startups with global brands and investors in retail, logistics, and digital commerce. 500 Global — Known for its extensive international network, 500 Global supports cross-border e-commerce ventures with an emphasis on market expansion. Chinaccelerator — Specializes in helping international startups enter the Chinese market, which is the largest e-commerce market in the world. Key Industry Events and Conferences Shoptalk — A leading global retail and e-commerce conference held in the US and Europe, focusing on innovation, technology, and consumer trends (shoptalk.com). NRF Retail’s Big Show — Hosted in New York, this event draws global retail leaders and showcases the latest in commerce technology (nrf.com). eTail — Regional editions in North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific cover actionable insights on omnichannel strategy and scaling online sales (etail.com). Seamless — A major fintech, payments, and e-commerce event held across multiple continents, including the Middle East, Africa, and Asia (terrapinn.com). International Funding and Cross-Border Considerations Investor Syndicates and Platforms — Platforms like our connect investor database allow founders to raise from a global base of investors. Cross-Border Logistics Partners — Success in international expansion often depends on partnerships with logistics leaders like DHL, Maersk, or SF Express, which can reduce delivery times and costs. Regulatory Compliance — Be prepared to address international data privacy regulations (e.g., GDPR, PDPA) and import/export rules during investor discussions. Demonstrating compliance readiness can give investors confidence in your scalability. Podcasts and Communities Tailored to E-Commerce Founders E-commerce Fuel: Hosted by Andrew Youderian, this podcast delivers weekly insights from seasoned store owners, including real numbers and growth strategies. It’s part of the broader eComFuel community, known for data-driven discussions and annual research reports. Down to Chat (DTC): Cody Plofker and Eli Weiss dive into DTC strategies spanning paid acquisition, retention tactics, and actionable growth playbooks from successful e-commerce founders. 9-Figure Operators: Hosted by founders of multi-million-dollar brands (e.g., HexClad, Ridge Wallet), this show features candid discussions about scaling, economic headwinds, and operational decision-making. Honest E-commerce: Chase Clymer interviews merchants who share real-life lessons—including CAC figures and near-bankrupt campaigns—making this a refreshingly transparent podcast. The E-commerce Playbook: A data-rich podcast by Common Thread Collective’s Taylor Holiday and Richard Gaffin, offering metrics-driven strategies for ROAS, attribution models, and more. Beyond the Inbox: Presented by The Drip Team, this podcast explores email automation, abandonment recovery, and actionable sequences with real conversion data—ideal for founders focused on retention. E-commerce Conversations: Hosted by Beardbrand’s Eric Bandholz, this weekly show delivers interviews with e-commerce entrepreneurs that dive into the true realities of building online businesses. The E-commerce Coffee Break: Targeted at Shopify merchants, this podcast provides actionable marketing and conversion tips tailored to growing online stores. Newsletters That Keep E-Commerce Founders Ahead In The Snow: Founder-led newsletter packed with DTC and performance marketing wisdom—especially on Meta, TikTok, and AI-driven advertising tactics. The Operators: Provides deep, founder-level interviews and operational playbooks from top e-commerce operators—think strategies that don’t make it into Twitter threads. Driving Influence: Focuses on AI, culture, and commerce—highlighting how brands can adapt in an evolving digital-first landscape. Modern Retail: Sharp editorial coverage on commerce evolution, platform changes, and retail innovation, especially useful for digital-first brands. DTC Newsletter: Daily dose of growth-focused content for DTC founders—creative testing, CRO strategies, ad performance breakdowns, and toolkits. Retail Brew (by Morning Brew): A tri-weekly roundup of retail and e-commerce trends, insights, and news delivered in an engaging, easy-to-digest format. Digital Commerce 360: Offers daily, weekly, or monthly updates on B2B and retail e-commerce news—complete with topic-specific alerts in logistics, tech, and global commerce. Chase Dimond’s E-commerce Newsletter: Every Monday, receive tactical email marketing insights—from copywriting to campaign strategies—straight from an expert practitioner. Shopifreaks: Newsletter with over 13,000 subscribers, covering strategy, partnerships, platform insights, seed rounds, and industry developments across Shopify, Amazon, and more. Additional Resource from Shopify: 27 Retail News Sites & Newsletters to Follow E-commerce Fundraising Trends & Insights Raising capital for an e-commerce startup in 2025 requires more than a compelling product and growth story. Investors are navigating a market shaped by rapid technological change, evolving consumer behaviors, and tighter capital conditions. For founders, staying competitive means understanding the forces driving VC interest, adapting to new investment criteria, and positioning their companies for long-term sustainability. Macro Trends Driving E-commerce Investment AI-powered retail tech and intelligent tools: AI is reshaping e-commerce operations from the ground up. Startups are using AI for inventory optimization, demand forecasting, product recommendations, and dynamic pricing strategies. Investors are prioritizing companies that integrate AI into their core offerings rather than as an add-on feature, as these solutions often deliver measurable operational and revenue impact. Social commerce and creator-led marketplaces: Platforms such as TikTok Shop, Instagram Shopping, and other video-first marketplaces are driving a shift from search-led to discovery-led buying. Creator partnerships allow smaller brands to scale without heavy upfront ad spend, making social commerce one of the fastest-growing channels for customer acquisition in 2025. Logistics, local fulfillment, and micro-warehousing: Consumers increasingly expect same-day or next-day delivery, pushing demand for decentralized fulfillment networks. Startups offering micro-warehousing, cross-border logistics optimization, and regionally adaptive supply chains are gaining traction with investors who see logistics as a critical enabler of global E-commerce expansion. Investor Expectations Have Shifted Profitability or a clear path to profitability: The growth-at-all-costs era has given way to disciplined scaling. Investors now expect founders to show a roadmap to profitability, supported by strong unit economics, efficient operations, and realistic growth projections. Preference for SaaS-style revenue models: Recurring revenue, low churn, and predictable cash flow have become more appealing to VCs than purely transactional business models. E-commerce infrastructure providers, subscription platforms, and hybrid SaaS-commerce businesses stand out for their scalability and margin potential. How Founders Can Stay Ahead Founders can increase their fundraising success by aligning with the trends and investor preferences shaping the market. This includes focusing on contribution margins, retention rates, CAC payback periods, and overall capital efficiency. Demonstrating durability—whether through resilient supply chains, consistent demand, or market adaptability—is essential. Building a first-party data strategy is also critical as privacy changes and rising ad costs make third-party data less reliable. Above all, investors want to hear a scalable vision that connects market opportunity with platform potential, network effects, and long-term leadership. Pitching to E-Commerce VCs: Sector-Focused Tips Raising venture capital in today’s e-commerce landscape means proving that your business can scale profitably, adapt to shifting consumer behaviors, and leverage technology as a competitive advantage. While general pitch advice applies, e-commerce founders need to tailor their approach to address the nuances of this sector and the current investor mindset. Craft a Compelling Narrative Your pitch should quickly convey what makes your business stand out in a crowded market. This is more than describing your product—it’s about framing your company as the solution to a high-value, urgent problem. Examples include: Reducing logistics friction in a fast-growing market. Delivering AI-driven personalization for niche consumer segments. Enabling B2B e-commerce in emerging economies. By anchoring your story in a real, validated pain point, you position your startup as a must-have, not a nice-to-have. Showcase the Right Metrics Investors in e-commerce are increasingly data-driven. Go beyond top-line revenue and present the numbers that matter for sustainable growth: Customer lifetime value (CLTV) to customer acquisition cost (CAC) ratio. Retention and repeat purchase rates. Contribution margin and gross margin trends. CAC payback period. Including these metrics in your deck demonstrates both operational understanding and investor alignment. Demonstrate Global Readiness E-commerce is inherently global, and cross-border opportunities are expanding. Show how your product, logistics, payments, and compliance strategies support entry into new markets. Highlight any localization efforts—such as language, currency, and regional fulfillment—that make your business adaptable and competitive internationally. Tailor the Deck for E-Commerce While every pitch deck should cover the essentials (problem, solution, traction, market, team, financials), e-commerce decks benefit from added depth in certain areas: Detailed unit economics with a path to profitability. Market behavior insights specific to your target geography or niche. Your technology stack and how it supports scalability (e.g., automation, AI, micro-fulfillment). Partnerships with marketplaces, logistics providers, or payment platforms. Anchor with Platform or Infrastructure Value If you’re building a marketplace or infrastructure tool, emphasize the network effects and scalability potential. Show data that illustrates growing engagement between buyers and sellers, increasing GMV (gross merchandise value), and any early signs of defensibility, such as exclusive supplier relationships or proprietary technology. Find VCs Investing in E-commerce Companies with Visible Visible helps founders connect with investors using our connect investor database, find VCs specifically investing in E-commerce here. For E-commerce startups, securing the right investors is critical as it goes beyond mere funding. These investors bring specialized expertise and strategic insights specific to the E-commerce sector, and their guidance is invaluable in navigating the unique challenges and opportunities within the space. Use Visible to manage every part of your fundraising funnel with investor updates, fundraising pipelines, pitch deck sharing, and data rooms. Raise capital, update investors, and engage your team from a single platform. Try Visible free for 14 days.

The best founders don’t just build companies, they build relationships. Regular communication with investors helps foster trust, accountability, and long-term alignment. That’s why we’ve made updates to help you stay consistent, strengthen your relationships, and keep your stakeholders engaged. Are You a Top Communicator? Most investors only hear from 10-30% of their portfolio companies on a regular basis. As Brett Brohl put it on the Thrive Through Connection podcast, “ One of the things that we found amongst our portfolio is that our highest performing companies are also the best communicators.” With our new Update Streaks feature, you can now track how many months in a row you’ve sent updates, making it easier to stay consistent, build trust, and stand out. See it for yourself below: Get More from Your Investor Updates Keeping investors up to date is a key touchpoint in the founder <> investor relationship. With our latest improvements, you’ll gain deeper insight into what resonates, enabling you to build stronger connections with your stakeholders. Here is what is new with Updates: React beyond the 👍 with new emoji-based reactions Export your update analytics for sharing or internal review Search across past updates and analytics with ease Explore the latest improvements to Updates: A Smoother Data Room Sharing Experience Whether you're starting a capital raise, deep into diligence, or exploring M&A, your Data Room helps share your story. We've recently streamlined the sharing experience and given you easier access to engagement analytics. You’ll also notice a more seamless experience on mobile, making it easier to manage your Data Room from anywhere.

Thomas Ikeda of Cendana Capital joined us on September 4th for a candid conversation about what it takes to raise from one of the most respected seed fund of funds. We dig into how LP expectations have shifted, what sets standout Fund I GPs apart, and how to build lasting LP relationships, even in a tough market. About the Webinar Thomas Ikeda is a Principal at Cendana, an investor in very early VC funds across the globe. Thomas joined us for a behind-the-scenes look at what Cendana looks for in fund managers, how LP expectations are shifting, and what it takes to raise and retain LP capital in today’s environment. We cover topics like: What separates standout Fund I GPs from the rest How Cendana evaluates conviction vs. red flags in fund managers How LP <> GP relationships are evolving in a tougher market What LPs want to see before backing Fund II The signals and strategies that help GPs build lasting LP trust We hope to see you at the next Visible Webinar!

Are you a founder building a Health & Wellness, digital health, medtech, or healthcare services startup? If you're actively seeking venture capital, this comprehensive guide is your essential resource. We understand the unique challenges and immense opportunities within this sector, and we're here to equip you with the knowledge and connections you need to succeed. In this article, you'll discover an up-to-date list of the top venture capital firms actively investing in Health & Wellness globally. Beyond the list, we'll dive deep into actionable, sector-specific fundraising insights, including current global trends, the unique challenges and opportunities within Health & Wellness, and practical tips for crafting a compelling pitch that resonates with VCs. We'll also cover key networking opportunities, accelerators, and resources available to Health & Wellness founders around the world, with a focus on international ecosystem trends, cross-border funding considerations, and major industry events. Top VCs Investing in Health and Wellness Startups Altitude Ventures About: Altitude Ventures aims to maximize value creation through value-added partnerships. AV provides early-stage venture capital financing to healthcare services and technology startups that improve healthcare. Sweet Spot Check Size: $2M Asset Management Ventures About: Asset Management Company made history as one of the first Silicon Valley venture capital firms. Founded and led by Franklin "Pitch" Johnson, the company has been instrumental in the birth and evolution of more than 100 outstanding companies. Asset Management focuses its primary capital investment on the emerging sector of digital health, in addition to the biotechnology and information technology sectors. Breakout Ventures About: Breakout Ventures is an early stage fund that backs bold scientist entrepreneurs. Thesis: Breakout Ventures backs bold companies working at the intersections of technology, biology, materials, and energy. Civilization Ventures About: Civilization Ventures is a venture capital firm focused on cutting edge innovations in exponential health tech and biology. Emmeline Ventures About: Emmeline Ventures is a female-founded early-stage fund investing in ambitious female founders building businesses that are helping women, in particular, manage their health, build their wealth, and live in a cleaner, safer world. Sweetspot check size: $ 2.50M Traction metrics requirements: Pre-seed - Prototype built with initial beta feedback underway; Seed- Early revenues in hand and insight for pivots and PMF emerging. Thesis: We invest across women's health, financial services, and sustainability specifically where breakout technology and innovaton is helping women live & thrive. HealthQuest Capital About: HealthQuest Capital is a growth equity, private equity firm investing in commercial-stage companies across the healthcare industry LionBird About: Investing in resetting healthcare's relationship with technology We provide pre-scale capital and assistance to teams on a mission to fix healthcare Thesis: We aspire to be the best pre-scale digital health investors out there. That means our focus is on helping founders lay the best foundations for their companies to scale and succeed. Lotux Sweetspot check size: $ 50K Traction metrics requirements: We would like to see some early validation but can invest in pre-revenue stage if we are bullish on the team and the opportunity. Thesis: Lotux focuses on partnering with mission-driven founders building software-based companies in the pre-seed stage that will improve the lives of the 99% in Latin America. RH Capital About: RH Capital a Rhia Ventures fund, is an impact-first venture capital firm that invests in early-stage startups with the potential to transform women's health and increase health equity. Thesis: We invest across all healthcare segments, including the life sciences (diagnostics, devices, therapeutics), digital health, services, and consumer health, with a focus on contraception, maternal health and a broad range of other high-impact and underserved areas in women's health. entrepreneurs who share a common vision—to improve the health of all women in the US. Underlying all of our work is a continued commitment to gender and racial equity. SteelSky Ventures About: SteelSky Ventures is an early stage VC fund investing in Women’s Health. Sweetspot check size: $ 2.50M Thesis: SteelSky Ventures invests in companies that improve access, care, and outcomes in women's health. Our innovative approach allows investment across the spectrum of women’s health indications and in technology infrastructure that supports new and innovative care delivery models. TEAMFund Health Ventures Sweetspot check size: $ 2M Thesis: Medtech, Digital health, impact (India and SSA) with global/leapfrog potential Town Hall Ventures Sweetspot check size: $ 7M Thesis: Town Hall Ventures ("THV") is a healthcare-focused investment firm dedicated to partnering with technology and services businesses that address critical patient needs. THV partners with entrepreneurs and teams passionate about changing the United States health care system, focusing on solutions that use innovation to address health inequities. UNIQA Ventures About: We invest in outstanding founder teams in InsurTech, FinTech und Digital Health Sweetspot check size: $ 2M Fundraising Landscape Snapshot: Where Capital Is Flowing Now After the post-2021 cool-down, digital health and Health & Wellness funding has reset and stabilized. Deal volume is healthy, but average check sizes are lower; earlier-stage rounds dominate; AI-enabled companies attract an outsized share; and investors and buyers are prioritizing evidence of outcomes and real ROI over “growth at all costs.” In Q1 2024, U.S. digital health raised $2.7B across 133 deals, with AI-enabled startups capturing 40% of funding; creative financing structures remained common as founders bridged to milestones. By the end of 2024, total U.S. digital health venture funding reached $10.1B across 497 deals, with late-stage median check sizes stepping down and mega-rounds becoming rarer. Momentum continued into 2025. In Q1 2025, U.S. digital health startups raised roughly $3.0B across 122 deals, lifting the average deal size to $24.4M versus $15.5M in Q4 2024, with signs of a late‑stage rebound alongside continued early‑stage dominance. Globally, investors deployed $12.1 billion across 616 deals, with late-stage median rounds climbing to $49 million—the highest since 2021. Europe, led by the UK, saw the fastest growth, and therapeutic areas like oncology, mental health, and cardiovascular care drew the most investment. AI-driven innovation and evidence-backed outcomes are commanding investor attention, larger checks, and a bigger share of the market. Outcomes Evidence Is the New Moat Buyers and investors increasingly require evidence that solutions work in the real world. Rock Health highlights that outcomes data has become central to fundraising and enterprise sales, especially in crowded spaces. Founders should build a lean but rigorous evidence program early: well-structured pilots tied to buyer KPIs, real-world evidence and claims analyses, peer-reviewed posters and papers, and credible reference customers. Align endpoints to your primary buyer—e.g., utilization and total cost of care for payers, throughput and quality metrics for providers, productivity and benefits ROI for employers. Tip: Include an “evidence pack” in your data room with study design summaries, endpoints, statistical methods, outcomes, and external validation where possible. Exit and Liquidity Outlook After a long drought, public exits showed tentative momentum in mid-2024 with listings like Tempus and Waystar, plus a SPAC for Nuvo. Although selectivity is high, a thaw suggests more optionality for top performers with strong margins and visibility. M&A is expected to tick up in 2025 as late-stage companies face valuation pressure and seek strategic fits; private equity remains an active acquirer for assets with clear operational improvement levers. What “Great” Looks Like for 2025 Raises Investors are backing efficient growers with evidence and clear paths to durable margins. Expect scrutiny on CAC payback, net retention, cohort-level gross margins, and disciplined burn. Best-in-class teams show regulatory and security readiness, interoperability, and AI governance. Commercially, they demonstrate repeatable sales motions, multi-year enterprise agreements, and evidence-backed expansions and renewals—all tied to quantified buyer ROI. For AI-native products, come prepared with model risk management practices, safety documentation, and a defensible data advantage. Global Networking: Accelerators, Communities, and Events Why Ecosystem Access Matters The fastest Health & Wellness startups don’t just raise capital; they plug into the right ecosystems to win clinical pilots, validate outcomes, and unlock distribution. Accelerators, operator communities, and events compress learning cycles, surface the right buyers, and generate qualified investor intros. If you have a clear ICP, early evidence, and a defined regulatory path, you’re ready to leverage global networks. Choosing the Right Accelerator or Venture Studio Calibrate for fit on sector depth (digital health, medtech, wellness), pilot access and clinical partners, investor exposure, economics (equity/fees), and quality of post-program support. For North America, look for programs that can broker health system pilots or payer access; in Europe/UK, prioritize those with MDR/IVDR and NHS procurement expertise; across APAC, Middle East, and LatAm, seek partners with hospital group relationships and localization support. Investor and Operator Communities Engage communities that consistently convene founders with payers, providers, and top investors. Examples include the Health Tech 50 community and Health Tech Forward network (global investor/operator mix), the RockHealth network and Rock Health Summit (U.S.-centric investors, enterprise buyers, and policy voices), and specialist groups in your subcategory. These are valuable for warm intros, evidence design support, and regional “landing pads.” Be explicit about your asks (pilot design partner in X specialty, payer advisory, co-investor intros), contribute your data (benchmarks, lessons learned), and reciprocate with references and content—this raises your visibility for curated introductions. Conference and Event Calendar (By Region) United States J.P. Morgan Healthcare Conference (JPM Week): The largest healthcare investor gathering; anchors many high-density side events for partnering and BD. BIO Partnering at JPM Week: Structured, double–opt-in 1:1 partnering alongside JPM; strong for scheduled investor and buyer meetings. Fierce JPM Week: Editorially led sessions and networking running in tandem with JPM; strong cross‑industry attendance. RESI JPM: One-day partnering forum focused on early-stage biotech, medtech, diagnostics, digital health, and AI; dense schedule of investor meetings. Rock Health Summit: High-signal investor, operator, and enterprise convening with curated conversations and strong U.S. buyer/investor density. Digital Health CEO Summit (invite-only): Intimate, candid roundtables for CEOs; strong peer learning and investor/operator access. Europe/UK Health Tech Forward (Barcelona): Flagship for healthtech innovation and investment; curated 1:1 meetings, Tech Meets Capital, and high buyer density. Health Tech Challengers (co-located): Epic startup pitch competition drawing investors and enterprise buyers across key healthtech tracks. Middle East WHX Dubai(World Health Expo): Arab Health transitioned to WHX Dubai (World Health Expo). The region’s largest healthcare exhibition and congress; strong buyer density across hospital groups, distributors, and government, plus extensive side programming for partnerships. Global Health Exhibition (Riyadh): Saudi Arabia’s flagship healthcare expo and conference; brings together providers, government, and investors with dedicated content and networking zones. Global Health Exhibition — Investor Program: Curated track connecting government officials, VCs/PE, healthtech/biotech startups, and healthcare executives; useful for capital and partnership discussions. Global Health Exhibition — NextGen Pitch Competition: Startup pitching platform to meet investors and buyers and showcase innovations aligned to KSA’s health transformation agenda. How to Pitch a Health & Wellness Startup to VCs Pitch Strategy: Narrative, Positioning, and Thesis–Market Fit Clarify the problem, who pays, and why now; align your story to macro trends VCs are actively backing (AI enablement, outcomes proof, efficiency). Tie your narrative to specific buyer pain points and the measurable outcomes you improve. Define your wedge and expansion: start with a focused ICP and use cases, then show how you land, expand, and compound value across adjacencies. Evidence Plan: Clinical, Real-World, and Economic Proof Map your evidence to the buyer (payer, provider, employer, consumer); specify endpoints, study designs, and timelines. Include early RWE, pilot KPIs, and health-economic modeling. Prepare an “evidence pack” for diligence: protocols, endpoints, statistical methods, outcomes to date, and references or publications. Leverage outcomes as a moat, per current investor expectations. Regulatory and Compliance Readiness Summarize applicable frameworks (e.g., HIPAA, GDPR, UK DPA, MDR/IVDR, FDA/CE pathways) and where you are on the path. Clarify whether you are a medical device/DTx or wellness product and implications for labeling and claims. Outline your security program: data architecture, PHI handling, SOC 2/ISO 27001 roadmap, AI model risk management, and vendor oversight. Go-To-Market by Channel: Payer, Provider, Employer, Consumer Payer: show total cost-of-care impact, utilization shifts, and contractable outcomes; highlight pilots, LOIs, or MA benefits integration. Provider/Health System: emphasize throughput, clinician time saved, quality metrics, revenue cycle impact, and EHR interoperability (FHIR/HL7). Employer: quantify absenteeism/presenteeism improvements, benefits integration, and claims ROI; showcase broker/TPA partnerships. Consumer: demonstrate retention cohorts, LTV/CAC, and engagement drivers; show compliance with claims and marketing standards. Metrics That Matter: Traction and Efficiency Present a metric dashboard tailored to your model: CAC, payback period, gross margin by cohort, net revenue retention, unit economics, and contribution margin trends. Include pipeline coverage and sales velocity. For AI-enabled products: add productivity lift, accuracy/precision metrics, error-rate reduction, and governance KPIs. Product and Data Advantage Show why you win technically: proprietary data, integrations, workflow embedding, and model differentiation. Explain your defensibility (data network effects, switching costs, regulatory barriers). Interoperability: detail integrations, standards supported, and proof of seamless deployment in target environments. Team, Advisors, and Clinical Credibility Highlight domain-experienced leadership, clinical advisors, and operator talent. Make explicit how expertise reduces risk in regulatory, evidence generation, and commercialization. The Deck: Structure and Flow Problem and urgency; solution and product demo; who buys and why; evidence and ROI; business model and pricing; traction and metrics; GTM and pipeline; regulatory and security; roadmap and milestones; team; fundraise ask and use of funds. The Fundraise: Round Dynamics and Use of Proceeds Calibrate round size to milestones that unlock next-stage proof (e.g., evidence readout, payer contract, system deployment). Articulate a crisp use-of-funds tied to de-risking. Fit the Investor: Targeting and Personalization Map investor theses, stage, and portfolio to your category; tailor outreach to highlight alignment and avoid conflicts. Balance mega-funds for distribution with specialists for domain help. Diligence Readiness: Data Room and References Data room index: corporate docs, cap table, info sec, regulatory, clinical/evidence, product/architecture, GTM, financial model, KPI definitions, and customer references. Prepare a diligence FAQ: regulatory classification, claims you can make, evidence plan and timelines, security posture, and unit economics assumptions. Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them Over-claiming clinical impact without evidence, unclear regulatory classification, weak ROI story, and misaligned buyer/channel strategies. Provide concrete fixes and examples. Find VCs Investing in Health and Wellness Companies with Visible Visible helps founders connect with investors using our connect investor database, find VCs specifically investing in Health and Wellness here. For Health and Wellness startups, securing the right investors is critical as it goes beyond mere funding. These investors bring specialized expertise and strategic insights specific to the Health and Wellness sector, and their guidance is invaluable in navigating the unique challenges and opportunities within the space. Use Visible to manage every part of your fundraising funnel with investor updates, fundraising pipelines, pitch deck sharing, and data rooms. Raise capital, update investors, and engage your team from a single platform. Try Visible free for 14 days.

Switzerland, renowned for its innovation, technological advancements, and entrepreneurial spirit, stands as a premier destination for startups and investors alike. The country's robust economy, world-class universities, and a business-friendly environment create a fertile ground for groundbreaking ventures. For startup founders eyeing the Swiss landscape, understanding the venture capital ecosystem is paramount. This guide serves as your comprehensive, up-to-date resource on the top venture capital firms currently funding startups in Switzerland. In addition to the list, we also cover insights on navigating the Swiss startup scene and leveraging local resources. Top VCs in Switzerland Verve Ventures About: Verve Ventures invests from EUR 500k to several million from Seed to Series B and beyond across Europe. Verve Ventures’ dedicated team helps companies with their most pressing needs such as hiring, client introductions and access to an expert network of high-profile individuals. Sweetspot check size: $ 1.50M Thesis: Investing in (deep -) technology and science-driven startups. Adding value through our exclusive network of investors. Nextech Invest About: Nextech is a global, cancer therapeutics-focused venture capital firm headquartered in Zurich, Switzerland. We focus almost exclusively on oncology therapeutics, and on helping to drive value creation for our portfolio companies. We invest in the most promising drug discovery companies with the potential to create multiple medicines. Our portfolio is focused throughout the US and Europe with investments from company inceptions to crossover rounds. Vi Partners About: VI Partners is a Swiss venture capital firm providing university spin-off's as well as other promising start-up companies with capital, coaching and networks. VI Partners is the advisor to multiple funds. The first fund was established by McKinsey & Company and the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Zürich (ETHZ) in 2001. Spicehaus Partners About: Spicehaus Partners AG is an independent Swiss venture capital investor. We focus on seed and early stage companies in the technology sector in Switzerland. We are hands-on investors and actively accompany our portfolio companies on their road to success. Endeavour Vision About: Endeavour Vision is a leading venture capital and growth equity advisory firm focusing on commercial-stage medtech and digital health companies. We support transformative healthcare technologies that provide superior clinical benefits for patients or bring significant efficiencies to health systems. Our team offers strategic and operational expertise and extensive international experience investing in companies in Europe and North America. We have a proven track record of successful exits with recently realized investments that include Relievant Medsystems, Vertiflex, and Symetis, as well as several IPOs. Endeavour Vision’s international investment teams are located in Geneva, Switzerland, Minneapolis, US and San Francisco, US. Emerald Technology Ventures About: Emerald is a globally recognized venture capital firm, founded in 2000, that manages and advises assets of over €1 billion from its offices in Zurich, Toronto and Singapore. The firm invests in start-ups that tackle big challenges in climate change and sustainability, with four current funds, hundreds of venture transactions and five third-party investment mandates, including loan guarantees to over 100 start-ups. Bold Ideas. Bright Future. Momenta Ventures About: Momenta is the leading Industrial Impact® venture capital firm, accelerating industrial innovators across energy, manufacturing, smart spaces, and the supply chain. For over a decade, our team of deep industry operators has helped scale industry leaders and innovators to improve critical industries, the environment, and people's quality of life. Sweetspot check size: $ 1M Seedstars International Ventures About: Seedstars Capital is an alternative investment platform specialized in emerging markets. The platform incubates, accelerates and invests in first-time and emerging venture capital funds. Sweetspot check size: $ 200 Swisscom Ventures About: Swisscom Ventures is the corporate venture capital arm of Swisscom, that specializes in early stage tech investments. Thesis: Swisscom Ventures invests in growth companies with emerging business models and technologies of strategic relevance to Swisscom's core business. As a value-add investor, Swisscom brings its investees the technicalexpertise and strategic insights of an incumbent telecom operator. Swiss Startup Capital AG About: Swiss Startup Group is a venture platform for scouting, building, accelerating, and investing in the most promising startups. Sweetspot check size: $ 1M Thesis: We are looking for leading tech entrepreneurs TA Ventures About: We are backing companies in Europe and North America at Seed – Series A, alongside high-profile co-investors, across a range of tech sectors, with a special interest in Digital Health, Mobility, Enterprise Software and IndustrialTech. Sweetspot check size: $ 250K Traction metrics requirements: No specific requirements Blue Horizon About: Blue Horizon is accelerating the transition to a Sustainable Food System that delivers outstanding returns for investors and the planet. The company is a global pioneer of the Future of Food. As a pure play impact investor, Blue Horizon has shaped the growth of the alternative protein and food tech market. The company invests at the intersection of biology, agriculture and technology with the aim to transform the global food industry. Blue Horizon was founded in 2016 and is headquartered in Zurich, Switzerland. To date, the company has invested in more than 70 companies. Its business model offers an attractive opportunity to invest in the evolution of the global food system while contributing to a healthy and sustainable world. www.bluehorizon.com Thesis: Financial performance paired with an attractive risk-return profile and tangible impact. DART Labs & Ventures About: DART Labs is an Incubator for teams that build technologies for a more human future. Sweetspot check size: $ 250K Thesis: We accelerate impactful European founders. We invest in breakthrough technologies that positively impact health and climate. Kickfund About: Kickfund exclusively invests in Swiss pre-seed and seed stage technology startups that have successfully completed the Venture Kick competition. Established in Luxembourg, the fund was initiated by supporters of the Swiss startup and innovation ecosystem. FoodHack c/o HackVentures Thesis: Investing globally from Stealth to Series A in companies that move the needle to a better people and planet (climate, health, food). Sweetspot check size: $ 100K Privilège Ventures About: Privilège Ventures is a Swiss-based Venture Capital firm, authorized by the Swiss Financial Market Supervisory Authority (FINMA, www.finma.ch) as venture capital asset manager, investing in promising early-stage startups. With offices in Lugano, Zurich and Boston, we aim to support young founders on a mission to build the future. Our unique values derive from previous experiences as founders, entrepreneurs, operators and investors. We provide unceasing support, expertise, and valuable network access to help entrepreneurs forge ahead. Sweetspot check size: $ 500K Thesis: Agnostic seed stage fund across Europe with a focus in Switzerland. Don't invest in Biotech and Crypto. Rewired.gg About: Launched in summer 2017, Rewired is a deep-tech fund, investing in applied science and technologies that advance machine perception. Thesis: We invest in applied science and technology ventures that can power the new economy whilst also doing good. Quadia About: Founded in 2010, Quadia specializes in direct impact investments, though equity, debt and funds. In line with its mission «we finance the solutions for a regenerative economy», Quadia targets companies which have positioned their business model and strategic development on products and services that contribute to a regenerative economy. These transformative companies operate in the areas of sustainable food, circular products & materials, and clean energy.. An internal impact management methodology is implemented by Quadia in collaboration with each portfolio company, allowing it to go beyond simple measurement of impact, promoting an environmental and social transition among all its stakeholders. Since its creation, Quadia has financed over 45 companies, projects and investment funds for the equivalent of EUR 220 million. Sweetspot check size: $ 3.50M Why Switzerland? Understanding the Swiss Startup and Venture Capital Ecosystem Switzerland consistently ranks among the world’s most innovative countries, earning top positions in the Global Innovation Index for over a decade. This reputation is built on a foundation of strong economic fundamentals, political stability, and a high quality of life—factors that make Switzerland a magnet for ambitious founders and investors. World-Class Innovation and Talent Pipeline Thanks to its world-class universities (ETH Zurich, EPFL) and research institutions, Switzerland consistently ranks at the top of the Global Innovation Index. These institutions are not just talent factories—they actively support spin-offs and technology transfer, making it easier for founders to access technical expertise and early-stage support. Founders should leverage university incubators, such as ETH’s Entrepreneurship Lab and EPFL’s Innovation Park, for mentorship, lab space, and networking with investors and corporate partners. Key Sectors and Funding Trends The Swiss startup scene is especially strong in healthtech, fintech, deep tech, and sustainability. In 2024, healthtech startups attracted over CHF 1.2 billion in funding, with AI-driven diagnostics and personalized medicine leading the way. Fintech startups raised CHF 800 million, benefiting from Switzerland’s regulatory clarity and global financial reputation. Green tech and sustainability-focused startups secured CHF 900 million, driven by national strategies like Energy Strategy 2050 and a strong ESG investment culture. Tip: Founders in these sectors should target specialized VCs and government grants (e.g., Innosuisse), and participate in sector-specific accelerators such as Kickstart Innovation (Zurich) and Venturelab (Lausanne). Funding Environment and Investor Landscape Despite a recent dip in total funding volume (CHF 2.3 billion in 2024, down 15% from 2023), Switzerland remains a magnet for both local and international investors. Early-stage investments surged by 35% in 2024, and the number of AI-focused deals doubled, reflecting strong investor appetite for innovation. Zurich, Geneva, and Lausanne are the main hubs, but Basel and Zug are rapidly emerging, especially for life sciences and blockchain. Government Support and Local Resources Switzerland’s government is highly supportive of startups. Innosuisse, the Swiss Innovation Agency, offers grants, coaching, and access to global networks. Programs like Switzerland Global Enterprise and the Swissnex Network help startups expand internationally. The government’s Health2030 and 2050 Energy Strategy provide additional funding and regulatory support for healthtech and green tech startups. Tip: Apply early for Innosuisse coaching and grants, and leverage Swissnex for international market entry. Explore the Swiss Startup Radar for data-driven insights and ecosystem benchmarks. Networking and Community Switzerland’s startup community is highly collaborative, with regular events, pitch competitions, and industry meetups. Key events include Swiss Startup Days, Venture Leaders, and the Swiss Software Festival. These gatherings are essential for meeting investors, partners, and fellow founders. Tip: Join local associations like Swiss Startup Association and Digital Switzerland for ongoing support and advocacy. Regulatory Environment and Market Access Switzerland offers a stable regulatory environment, strong IP protection, and easy access to European and global markets. However, founders should be aware of high operational costs and a relatively small domestic market. Regulatory requirements can be complex, especially in healthtech and fintech, so early legal and compliance advice is crucial. Tip: Engage with local legal experts and industry associations early in your journey. Use government resources to understand visa, tax, and compliance requirements. Current Challenges and Opportunities While funding rounds and total investment volume have declined since 2022, the ecosystem remains robust, with a strong focus on AI, healthtech, and sustainability. Female founder participation is growing, especially in healthtech, but remains an area for improvement (14% of founders in 2024 were women, with the highest share in healthtech at 21%). Tip: Female founders should explore dedicated programs and networks, such as Female Founders Initiative and Women in Tech Switzerland. Key Networking Opportunities and Startup Events in Switzerland: Where Founders Meet Investors and Partners Swiss Startup Days Swiss Startup Days is one of the country’s flagship business and networking events, held annually in Bern. It brings together startups, investors, corporates, and enablers for a full day of pitching, workshops, and 1:1 meetings. Founders can apply to pitch, schedule meetings with investors in advance, and gain visibility through the event’s newcomer program. Startup Nights Startup Nights in Winterthur is Switzerland’s largest startup event, attracting over 8,000 participants, including founders, investors, and corporate partners. The two-day event features keynotes, hands-on workshops, a pitching competition, and extensive networking opportunities. Founders can showcase their startups, connect with investors, and join workshops to sharpen their skills. Swiss Startup Association Events The Swiss Startup Association organizes regular Founders Dinners, education sessions, and webinars across Switzerland. These events offer a relaxed atmosphere to meet fellow founders, learn from experts, and connect with investors. The association also hosts special events for female founders and scaleup executives. Venturelab Events Venturelab runs a comprehensive program of events, workshops, and international roadshows for Swiss startups. Highlights include the Venture Leaders program (with sector-specific tracks in fintech, biotech, and more), the TOP 100 Swiss Startup Award, and regular pitch events. These are excellent opportunities to gain exposure, receive feedback, and build investor relationships. Startupticker.ch Event Calendar Startupticker.ch maintains the most complete calendar of startup events, pitch competitions, and training sessions across Switzerland. Founders can filter by location, sector, and event type to find relevant opportunities, from local meetups to major conferences like Swiss Medtech Day and Energy Startup Day. Local and Thematic Meetups Regular pitch nights, investor lunches, and tech meetups are held in Zurich, Geneva, Lausanne, and other hubs. For example, Investor Connect: Pitch & Network Night Zürich and Startup Pitch & Networking Zürich are recurring events where founders can pitch and network with investors in an informal setting. Accelerators, Incubators, and Co-Working Spaces Many Swiss accelerators and incubators, such as Kickstart Innovation (Zurich), Tenity (fintech, Zurich), and EPFL Innovation Park (Lausanne), host demo days, open houses, and networking sessions. Co-working spaces like Impact Hub Zurich and Basel also organize community events and workshops, providing ongoing opportunities to connect with peers and mentors. Online Communities and Associations Joining organizations like the Swiss Startup Association, Digital Switzerland, and Women in Tech Switzerland gives founders access to exclusive events, advocacy, and peer support. Many of these groups also run online forums and Slack channels for ongoing networking. Tip: Founders should build relationships with both Swiss and international VCs, attend major events like the Swiss Startup Days and use platforms like Startup.ch to track active investors and recent deals. Resources and Support Systems for Startups in Switzerland Government-Backed Support Agencies Innosuisse: Switzerland’s federal innovation agency, Innosuisse, is the first stop for many founders. It offers non-dilutive grants, personalized coaching, and access to internationalization programs. Innosuisse’s Startup Coaching program matches founders with experienced mentors, while its Innovation Projects fund R&D collaborations with universities and industry partners. Switzerland Global Enterprise (S-GE): S-GE helps startups expand internationally by providing market entry advice, export consulting, and access to a global network of business hubs. Their “GoGlobal” programs are especially useful for founders looking to scale beyond Switzerland. Swissnex: Swissnex connects Swiss startups with innovation hubs worldwide, offering soft-landing programs, networking events, and support for international partnerships. With offices in key global cities, Swissnex is a gateway for founders aiming for global reach. Leading Accelerators, Incubators, and Innovation Parks Kickstart Innovation: Based in Zurich, Kickstart is one of Switzerland’s largest multi-corporate accelerators, focusing on deep tech, fintech, health, and sustainability. Startups benefit from pilot projects with corporate partners, mentorship, and access to funding. Tenity: Tenity is a global fintech and insurtech accelerator with programs in Zurich and beyond. It offers pre-seed and seed-stage support, industry connections, and demo days for investor exposure. EPFL Innovation Park: Located in Lausanne, this park supports high-tech startups, especially in life sciences, engineering, and digital. It offers office space, access to labs, and a vibrant community of researchers and entrepreneurs. Impact Hub: With locations in Zurich, Basel, Geneva, and Lausanne, Impact Hub provides co-working, community events, and startup programs focused on social innovation and sustainability. Legal, Tax, and Regulatory Support Startup Desks and Advisory Services: The Swiss Startup Association offers Startup Desks covering legal, IP, finance, and regulatory topics, with free or discounted consultations for members. Many cantons also provide startup advisory services, helping with company formation, tax optimization, and compliance. Startup.ch: This platform provides a directory of Swiss startups, investors, and service providers, making it easy to find legal and financial advisors with startup expertise. Funding Resources Beyond VCs Angel Networks: Groups like Swiss ICT Investor Club (SICTIC) and Business Angels Switzerland (BAS) connect early-stage founders with active angel investors. These networks host regular pitch events and offer hands-on support. Public Grants and Loans: Besides Innosuisse, many cantons and cities offer startup grants, innovation vouchers, and low-interest loans. Check your local economic development office for region-specific programs. Crowdfunding Platforms: Platforms like wemakeit and Swisspeers allow founders to raise funds from the public, often for product launches or early validation. Directories, Toolkits, and Online Platforms Startupticker.ch: News, event calendars, and directories of awards, grants, and investors. Swiss Startup Association: Resource library, event listings, and advocacy for founders. Venturelab: Training, international programs, and pitch events for high-growth startups. How to Combine These Resources for Maximum Impact Early Stage: Start with Innosuisse coaching, join a local incubator or Impact Hub, and attend pitch events to build your network. Growth Stage: Apply to accelerators like Kickstart or Tenity, leverage S-GE and Swissnex for international expansion, and seek angel or VC funding. Scaling: Use legal and tax advisory services to optimize your structure, and tap into public grants or crowdfunding for non-dilutive capital. Connect With Investors in Switzerland Using Visible At Visible, we often times compare a fundraise to a B2B sales and marketing funnel. At the top of your funnel, you are finding new investors. In the middle, you are nurturing and pitching potential investors. At the bottom of the funnel, you are working through diligence and ideally closing new investors. With the introduction of data rooms, you can now manage every aspect of your fundraising funnel with Visible. Find investors at the top of your funnel with our free investor database, Visible Connect and find a filtered list of the Switzerland's investors here. Track your conversations and move them through your funnel with our Fundraising CRM Share your pitch deck and monthly updates with potential investors Organize and share your most vital fundraising documents with data rooms Manage your fundraise from start to finish with Visible. Give it a free try for 14 days here.

This guide is your essential playbook if you're a founder building consumer products and brands anywhere in the world and looking to raise venture capital in 2025. We'll equip you with the latest investor landscape, global ecosystem resources, and a vetted list of 15 top consumer-focused VC firms (with a link to their profile on our Connect Investor Database). When we talk about "consumer" startups in this guide, we're casting a wide net. This includes digitally native brands (D2C/CPG), dynamic consumer marketplaces, engaging social and creator platforms, innovative consumer fintech solutions, consumer health and wellness brands, subscription services, and cutting-edge consumer-facing AI applications. Consumer investors are increasingly prioritizing businesses with durable unit economics, strong brand moats, community-driven growth strategies, and truly differentiated AI-native consumer experiences. The days of relying solely on paid acquisition for growth are largely behind us. This guide will provide macro context, drawing on recent industry roundups and rankings, alongside a curated consumer VC list to pinpoint active investors. For each firm, you'll find their current focus, typical check size/stage, and notable consumer investments. Top 15 Venture Capital Firms Actively Investing in Consumer Startups Maveron About: Maveron funds seed and Series A companies that empower consumers to live on their terms. Based in SF and Seattle and invest coast-to-coast. Thesis: Maveron funds seed and Series A companies that empower consumers to live on their terms. Based in SF and Seattle and invest coast-to-coast. Left Lane Capital About: Left Lane is a venture capital and early growth equity firm based in New York City. Left Lane’s four partners all previously worked at Insight Partners, where they led investments into consumer subscription, software, marketplace, and platform businesses. Sweetspot check size: $ 12.50M Traction metrics requirements: >1M in run rate revenue, gross margin positive, efficient unit economics, high growth Thesis: We invest in high-growth internet and consumer technology businesses that are fundamental to the human condition and spirit – where customers maintain a long-term relationship with the product, platform or service. Forerunner Ventures About: VC firm investing in transformative B2C & B2B companies defining a new generation of business, with an eye on the consumer. Interlace Ventures About: Early Stage fund investing in the Future of Commerce Sweetspot check size: $ 250K Thesis: Theme: Technology for the commerce world JamJar Investments Thesis: JamJar Investments is the innocent drinks founders' venture capital fund. They invest in high growth, digital consumer brands. L Catterton About: Catterton Partners is the leading private equity firm with an exclusive focus on providing equity capital to growing middle market consumer companies in North America. Their combination of investment capital, strategic and operating skills, and industry network has enabled them to become the most sought after private equity firm in the consumer sector. Shrug Capital About: Shrug Capital is a Venture capital firm investing in consumer startups. Shasta Ventures About: At Shasta, we are deeply committed to passionate entrepreneurs that are building businesses that will change the world. We believe strongly in supporting those entrepreneurs and helping them to figure out how to iterate through the challenges of being an early-stage company and to build and grow and scale. Thesis: We now invest in innovative early-stage startups in sectors like SaaS, cybersecurity, infrastructure, data intelligence, and consumer subscription. By focusing on early-stage, we can dive deeper to partner with our portfolio and give them the resources they need to reach new milestones, faster. No Brand About: No Brand is a private investment company focussed on opportunities empowered by technology. Our focus is on backing mission driven leaders, who are building for a long term horizon and benefit from online platforms, community or network effects. Sweetspot check size: $ 500K XFund About: Xfund is the early-stage venture capital firm built to back entrepreneurs who think laterally and experiment across disciplines. Sweetspot check size: $ 2M Thesis: You can be a hacker and a historian. You can be a techno-utopian and an aesthete. We want to back minds that stretch laterally and not just linearly. We want to back the coder who not only knows what she’s doing, but why. Maybe that’s you. TSG Consumer Partners About: TSG is a global leader in consumer-focused investing with approximately $14 billion in assets under management and a 35+ year track record of building iconic brands. Since its founding in 1986, TSG has been an active investor in the food, beverage, restaurant, beauty, personal care, household and apparel & accessories, and e-commerce sectors. General Catalyst About: General Catalyst backs exceptional entrepreneurs who are building innovative technology companies and market leading businesses, including Airbnb, BigCommerce, ClassPass, Datalogix, Datto, Demandware, Gusto (fka ZenPayroll), The Honest Company, HubSpot, KAYAK, Oscar, Snap, Stripe, and Warby Parker. The General Catalyst team leverages its broad experience to help founders build extraordinary companies. General Catalyst has offices in Cambridge, MA, Palo Alto, CA and New York City. Sweetspot check size: $ 30M Thesis: General Catalyst is a venture capital firm that makes early-stage and growth equity investments. Night Ventures Sweetspot check size: $ 375K Thesis: Our LPs are 50+ of the top creators in the world across YouTube, TikTok, Twitch and elsewhere. Together, we specialize in influence - understanding what's popular, what's trending and how to acquire more customers/fans of your product. Ascend About: Ascend is the most active pre-seed venture capital fund in the Pacific Northwest. Thesis: Pre-seed investor in marketplace, consumer brands, ecommerce, and B2B software. Cathay Innovation About: Cathay Innovation is an international early growth venture capital firm that partners with entrepreneurs by bridging USA, Europe and China. Sweetspot check size: $ 10M Actionable Fundraising Insights and Pitch Tactics for Consumer Founders What Consumer VCs Are Prioritizing Investors are looking for evidence of organic demand (community, referrals, creator flywheels, UGC) and a credible path to attractive contribution margins. They want a distinct moat—brand, distribution, product, or supply—and authentic ways AI improves the user experience, personalization, discovery, or support. Firms consistently emphasize fundamentals, brand defensibility, and platform effects over top-line growth alone. Model-Specific Metrics VCs Will Diligence For D2C/CPG, expect deep dives into order frequency, cohort retention, contribution margin after fully-loaded logistics and returns, inventory turns, and cash conversion cycle. For marketplaces, focus on liquidity (time-to-transaction, search-to-fill), take rate, buyer and seller retention, CAC by side, and evidence of network effects. For consumer apps and subscriptions, highlight activation, WAU/MAU, session frequency, conversion to paid, churn, net revenue retention, CAC payback, and LTV drivers. In consumer fintech and health, be prepared on compliance, trust and safety metrics, claims or chargeback rates, and margin structure. A Pitch Narrative That Lands Lead with the consumer problem and your proprietary wedge—brand, data, distribution, or technology—that lets you win in a crowded category. Show proof of pull with waitlists, organic channel growth, community engagement, creator advocacy, and efficient referral loops. Map a credible path to margin and defensibility, starting with gross margin today and the levers to expand contribution margin as you scale. Be concrete about AI’s role where it’s real, such as measurable lift from personalization, customer support automation, merchandising improvements, or fraud reduction. Close with traction that compounds—cohort curves, unit economics, and a near-term roadmap tied directly to capital use. Materials Checklist for Consumer Rounds Investors will expect clean monthly cohort retention, CAC by channel, a transparent LTV methodology, and a contribution margin waterfall. For CPG, include inventory and cash cycle visibility, returns, and discounting effects. Add funnel analytics, pricing experiments, and your attribution model, alongside references from customers, creators, partners, and prior investors where applicable. Screenshots and short demos of merchandising improvements, community metrics (Discord, socials, UGC), and before/after tests help validate claims. CAC, LTV, and Payback: What “Good” Looks Like Contextually Early-stage rounds tolerate noisy CAC, but you should demonstrate repeatable channels, the difference between blended and incremental CAC, and a payback window appropriate for your category and gross margins. LTV must be cohort-grounded, not a top-down guess: anchor assumptions in observed repeat rate, AOV, contribution margin, and a sensible discount rate. Demonstrate your understanding of channel concentration risk and outline a plan to diversify into community, partnerships, and, when appropriate, retail or wholesale, to enhance trust and blended CAC. Pricing, Merchandising, and Growth Loops Demonstrate a systematic approach to pricing, including anchoring, premium SKUs, bundling, subscriptions, and regional strategies, with experiment design and results. Show how merchandising drives conversion and AOV—PDP improvements, cross-sell and upsell logic, and content-to-commerce. Detail your growth loops: UGC that feeds discovery, creator amplification, referral mechanics, and community content that reduces CAC and compounds retention over time. Building Defensibility as a Consumer Brand The strongest moats sit beyond performance marketing. Highlight supply or formulation advantages, exclusive distribution or partnerships, proprietary data and personalization, community/IP, and omnichannel strategies that reinforce trust. Adding retail or wholesale at the right time can decrease blended CAC and increase credibility, but be explicit about the margins and operational tradeoffs. These are consistent themes among consumer brand specialists noted in 2025 investor roundups and leadership lists Forbes Midas 2025. Running a Tight Fundraise Process Start with a tiered target list mapped by stage, geography, and sub-vertical fit using our connect investor database. Prioritize warm introductions through portfolio founders, creators, operator-angels, and ecosystem partners. Time-box the process, define the round size and high-level terms, and tie use of funds to measurable milestones such as margin expansion, channel diversification, or SKU/feature roadmap delivery. Keep engaged firms updated weekly with KPI momentum and experiment results. Common Red Flags and How to Preempt Them Overreliance on paid acquisition without improvement in blended CAC or retention, inflated LTV assumptions that ignore returns and logistics, inventory bloat and long cash cycles without a financing strategy, and shallow differentiation versus entrenched incumbents are all red flags. Preempt them by showing channel mix evolution, cohort-grounded LTV, clear inventory and working capital plans, and crisp positioning backed by proof from customers and creators. When You Don’t Have “Perfect” Metrics Yet If you’re early, lead with the velocity of learning: a tight experiment cadence, rapid iteration, and clear KPI deltas over short cycles. Showcase early love—qualitative user feedback, creator endorsements, community engagement—and small but improving cohorts. Present a 90–120 day plan post-raise that de-risks CAC, retention, and margin, with specific experiments, targets, and decision gates. This signals operating rigor even before scale. Global Networking, Accelerators, and Events Where Consumer Founders Network Globally (and How to Get Warm Intros) High-signal relationships come from places where operators, creators, and investors already collaborate. Start with portfolio founders of the firms in your target list, operator-angel syndicates with consumer track records, curated Slack/Discord communities for D2C/CPG and marketplace builders, and regional founder groups tied to key hubs (SF/NY/LA; London/Berlin/Paris; Bangalore/Singapore; São Paulo/Mexico City). Engineer warm intros by asking your network which investors they follow, cross-referencing with our connect investor database, and arming referrers with a one-paragraph forwardable blurb, three bullets of traction, and a data room that is neat and professional — it should inspire confidence. Top Accelerators and Venture Studios for Consumer Startups Generalist accelerators with strong consumer alumni networks can open doors to downstream VCs and retailers, while specialist programs and venture studios provide category expertise. Look for programs with hands-on merchandising, supply chain, and growth support (for CPG/commerce) or mobile product and creator distribution depth (for consumer apps). Evaluate by mentor quality and operator density, demo day reach in your target regions, check size and equity cost, follow-on rates, and post-program support. Global Consumer/CPG/Retail Events That Convert to Meetings Large tentpole gatherings concentrate consumer investors and partners. General tech and founder events like CES, Web Summit, Slush, and SXSW offer broad exposure. Retail and commerce conferences such as NRF, Shoptalk, Groceryshop, and the eTail series bring merchants, platforms, and commerce VCs. CPG and food/wellness shows like Natural Products Expo West/ East and Fancy Food Show enable retail buyer and distributor meetings; beauty and fashion convene at Cosmoprof and selected fashion-tech forums. Creator economy and media investors cluster around events like VidCon. Global Trends in Consumer Fundraising Resurgence of Consumer VC Interest After years of waning attention, consumer startups are experiencing a notable revival in VC interest—funding in the sector increased by 25% last year. New York City is emerging as a hotbed for consumer tech startups, drawing founders with its vibrant, creative, and collaborative ecosystem. Founding teams of Gen Z–focused startups like Fizz, Posh, and Partiful are gravitating toward the East Coast city’s unique energy. As Derek Chu, a partner at FirstMark Capital, puts it—a “consumer renaissance” is igniting in NYC. Profitability and Sustainable Growth Take Center Stage Gone are the days of “growth at all costs.” In 2025, VCs are laser-focused on unit economics—prioritizing startups that demonstrate customer retention, repeat purchase behavior, and clear paths to profitability. Particularly in sectors like beauty, investors favor brands with strong fundamentals, genuine founder narratives, and defensible positioning. Social Commerce Accelerates, Fueled by Influencer Power As regulatory pressure mounts on platforms like TikTok, investor attention is shifting toward social-shopping platforms. Startups like Whatnot (livestream sales leader with $265M raised) and ShopMy (profitable, secured $77.5M) are thriving by tapping influencer-driven commerce. This highlights the growing effectiveness of creator-led marketing in the consumer VC landscape. Niche Personalization, AI, and New Social Frontiers The consumer tech landscape is being reshaped by emerging platforms that harness AI, Gen Z trends, and niche social experiences. Investors are eyeing AI-powered apps, boutique dating tools, and hyper-personalized social networks built around identity, culture, and shared interests. Though caution remains—especially given competition from Big Tech—the appetite for these disruptive formats is rising. Find VCs Investing in Consumer Companies with Visible Visible helps founders connect with investors using our connect investor database, find VCs specifically investing in Consumer here. For Consumer startups, securing the right investors is critical as it goes beyond mere funding. These investors bring specialized expertise and strategic insights specific to the Consumer sector, and their guidance is invaluable in navigating the unique challenges and opportunities within the space. Use Visible to manage every part of your fundraising funnel with investor updates, fundraising pipelines, pitch deck sharing, and data rooms. Raise capital, update investors, and engage your team from a single platform. Try Visible free for 14 days.