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In recent years, Milwaukee has seen a surge in venture capital activity, with local startups raising millions and attracting attention from both regional and national investors. Notably, Milwaukee is home to gener8tor, a nationally ranked accelerator, and a growing roster of VC firms and angel groups that are fueling the city’s transformation into a tech and innovation hub. The city’s collaborative spirit is evident in its thriving networking scene, with events like Milwaukee Startup Week and organizations such as the Milwaukee Tech Hub Coalition and Startup Milwaukee providing founders with mentorship, resources, and direct access to investors. With a lower cost of living, access to top talent from universities like UW-Milwaukee and Marquette, and a strong commitment to inclusive innovation, Milwaukee is attracting founders who want to build, scale, and fundraise in a supportive and fast-growing ecosystem. Whether you’re seeking your first check or looking to join a vibrant community of entrepreneurs, Milwaukee’s VC landscape offers a wealth of opportunities for ambitious founders. Top Milwaukee VCs and Angel Investors gener8tor About: gener8tor is a nationally ranked, concierge accelerator that invests in high-growth startups. Sweetspot check size: $ 100K Capital Midwest Fund About: Capital Midwest Fund invests primarily on investments where companies have excellent management and technology, are performing an important function, and will address significant markets. They look for management with successful previous experience; markets that are established and growing; defensible IP positions; and sustainable competitive advantages. VC 414 We invest in courageous entrepreneurs who are building products that advance socio-economic prosperity. Our priority is to fund women or founders otherwise undercapitalized in the venture capital ecosystem. CSA Partners About: CSA Partners, LLC is a venture fund investing in early stage, high growth, companies located in the Midwest, with particular focus in Wisconsin. We look to partner with entrepreneurs to help them build and grow great innovative companies in our community. Wisconsin Valley Ventures About: WVV is a $100M early-stage venture capital fund established as a joint-venture between Foxconn, Advocate Aurora Health, Johnson Controls, and Northwestern Mutual. We target transformation and interdisciplinary innovations in health care, technology, manufacturing and financial services. Our unique partnership among four leading companies enables us to support our portfolio companies at a deeper level than traditional venture capital funds. Golden Angels Investors About: Golden Angels Investors is a member led organization of over 100 investors committed to funding and helping great young companies from pitch through a successful exit. Our members are entrepreneurs, CEO's, venture capitalists and professionals who have founded, founded and built world-class companies. We come from a wide range of industry expertise and together create an extensive network of entrepreneurial support. We mentor and coach the companies we invest in. Thesis: We are generally interested in opportunities in fintech, edtech, healthcare, hi-tech, and services in large and growing markets with proprietary intellectual property and a great team. Mason Wells About: Mason Wells is a highly experienced and active Midwest-based private equity firm that has raised over $2.4 billion across five independent buyout funds, including Mason Wells Buyout Fund V, a $767 million fund raised in 2021. Our longstanding approach to private equity revolves around the investment we make in people, the enduring partnerships we build with management teams, and the deep network of industry resources we provide. BrightStar Wisconsin Foundation About: BrightStar Wisconsin Foundation, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) organization committed to getting capital to Wisconsin entrepreneurs. Why? They are the most efficient and effective creators of jobs, talent, innovation, and value that our state has. The proven model is simple: we accept donations and then use those funds to make equity investments into Wisconsin early-stage tech companies. When these investments are successful, returns are re-deployed into more entrepreneurs in our great state. Key Networking Opportunities and Events for Milwaukee Founders Milwaukee’s startup ecosystem thrives on its strong sense of community and the abundance of networking opportunities available to founders. Whether you’re looking to meet investors, connect with fellow entrepreneurs, or pitch your startup, Milwaukee offers a variety of events, competitions, and groups designed to help founders build relationships and accelerate their growth. Here are some of the most impactful networking opportunities and events for Milwaukee founders in 2025: Milwaukee Startup Week Milwaukee Startup Week is one of the city’s flagship events, bringing together entrepreneurs, investors, corporate leaders, and community members for a week of workshops, panels, pitch competitions, and networking sessions. The event is designed to celebrate local innovation and provide founders with direct access to resources and connections that can help them scale their businesses. gener8tor Accelerator and gBETA Milwaukee gener8tor is a nationally ranked accelerator with a strong presence in Milwaukee. Its gBETA program offers free, seven-week accelerator sessions for early-stage startups, culminating in a public pitch night where founders can showcase their companies to investors and the broader community. gener8tor also hosts regular networking events, office hours, and educational workshops. Milwaukee Tech Hub Coalition Events The Milwaukee Tech Hub Coalition organizes a range of events throughout the year, including hackathons, innovation summits, and networking mixers. Their annual Tech Week is a highlight, featuring sessions on emerging technologies, startup funding, and talent development. The coalition’s events are designed to foster collaboration and drive growth in the local tech ecosystem. Startup Milwaukee and Startup Milwaukee Week Startup Milwaukee is a community-driven organization that hosts regular meetups, educational workshops, and the annual Startup Milwaukee Week. These events provide founders with opportunities to learn from experienced entrepreneurs, connect with potential co-founders, and meet local investors. Ward4 Networking Events Ward4 is a prominent co-working space and innovation hub in downtown Milwaukee. It regularly hosts pitch nights, founder roundtables, and networking happy hours, making it a go-to spot for early-stage entrepreneurs looking to expand their networks. Social X MKE Social X MKE is a young professional diversity and inclusion group that hosts networking events, professional development workshops, and social gatherings. Their events are a great way for founders to tap into Milwaukee’s diverse talent pool and build inclusive teams. Milwaukee Business Journal Events The Milwaukee Business Journal hosts a variety of business-focused events, including Power Breakfasts, 40 Under 40, and industry roundtables. These events attract influential business leaders, investors, and policymakers. Why Milwaukee is a Rising Hub for Startups and Venture Capital Milwaukee has rapidly emerged as one of the Midwest’s most promising cities for startups and venture capital, drawing attention from founders and investors alike. Once known primarily for its manufacturing legacy, Milwaukee is now recognized for its vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem, robust support networks, and increasing access to capital. Here’s why more founders are choosing to build and fundraise in Milwaukee: Strong Growth in Startup Activity and Investment Milwaukee’s startup scene has seen significant momentum in recent years. According to the Wisconsin Policy Forum, venture capital investment in the Milwaukee region has grown steadily, with local startups attracting millions in funding across sectors like healthtech, advanced manufacturing, fintech, and SaaS. The city is home to a growing number of venture capital firms, angel investors, and accelerators, making it easier for founders to access early-stage and growth capital than ever before. Collaborative and Supportive Ecosystem Milwaukee’s entrepreneurial community is known for its collaborative spirit. Organizations such as Startup Milwaukee, the Milwaukee Tech Hub Coalition, and gener8tor (a nationally recognized accelerator with a strong local presence) provide founders with mentorship, networking, and resources. The city’s co-working spaces, such as Ward4, foster connections between founders, investors, and corporate partners, creating a supportive environment for innovation and growth. Access to Top Talent and Research Institutions Milwaukee benefits from a strong pipeline of talent, thanks to its proximity to leading universities like the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and Marquette University. These institutions not only produce skilled graduates in engineering, business, and computer science but also support research commercialization and tech transfer, fueling the city’s innovation engine. Cost Advantages and Quality of Life Compared to coastal tech hubs, Milwaukee offers a lower cost of living and more affordable office space, allowing startups to extend their runway and attract talent seeking a high quality of life. The city’s vibrant arts scene, diverse neighborhoods, and access to Lake Michigan make it an attractive destination for both founders and employees. Increasing National Recognition Milwaukee is gaining national attention as a startup destination. The city has been featured in reports highlighting the Midwest’s rise as a tech and innovation hub, and local startups have secured funding from both regional and national investors. This growing recognition is helping to attract more capital, talent, and resources to the region. Focus on Inclusive Innovation Milwaukee’s ecosystem is also notable for its commitment to inclusive innovation. Initiatives like the Milwaukee Tech Hub Coalition’s diversity programs and local accelerators’ outreach to underrepresented founders are helping to ensure that the city’s growth benefits a broad range of entrepreneurs. Strategic Location and Industry Strengths Located between Chicago and Minneapolis, Milwaukee offers strategic access to major markets and transportation networks. The city’s historical strengths in manufacturing, insurance, and healthcare have evolved into new opportunities in advanced manufacturing, medtech, and insurtech, attracting both startups and investors focused on these sectors. Connect With Investors in Milwaukee 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 Milwaukee' 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.

New York City has firmly established itself as a premier destination for startups and venture capital, offering an unparalleled ecosystem of innovation and investment opportunities. The city's diverse and vibrant entrepreneurial landscape is bolstered by a wealth of resources, including a dense concentration of venture capital firms, accelerators, and incubators. As a global financial hub, New York provides startups with access to significant funding, strategic partnerships, and a rich talent pool, making it an ideal location for founders looking to launch and scale their businesses. This dynamic environment fosters continuous growth and innovation, positioning New York as a startup and venture capital leader. Why Raise Venture Capital in New York City? For startup founders, raising venture capital in New York City brings unique advantages beyond funding. The city’s rich network of seasoned industry players, many of whom are leading experts across sectors like finance, media, health, and technology, creates an unparalleled environment for networking and mentorship. Founders who connect with New York investors can gain valuable insights, establish critical partnerships, and access a wealth of business connections that can accelerate their company’s growth. New York City also offers a large and highly skilled talent pool, particularly in fields essential to scaling high-growth startups, such as software engineering, data science, and digital marketing. This concentration of expertise, alongside a multicultural and entrepreneurial workforce, enables founders to put together strong teams and leverage top-tier talent. The city is also a global media hub, giving startups unique opportunities for exposure. A New York presence can help founders tap into PR channels, digital media, and industry events that draw attention to their company’s mission, products, and innovations. For startups aiming to build brand awareness, a NYC-based investor network can be a gateway to high-impact media opportunities that support long-term growth. Related Resource: How to Find Venture Capital to Fund Your Startup: 5 Methods The New York Venture Capital Landscape New York City’s venture capital ecosystem is renowned for its fast-paced growth and sector diversity, making it one of the most attractive destinations for startup founders seeking investment. The city’s well-established financial roots have paved the way for a robust fintech scene, with startups focusing on digital payments, blockchain, and financial inclusivity solutions. Health tech is also flourishing, driven by New York’s world-class medical institutions and a push for innovation in areas like telemedicine, digital health records, and personalized medicine. Media and advertising technology also hold a significant share, leveraging the city’s longstanding position as a global media hub. With ample resources, industry expertise, and access to investors and early customers, New York’s vibrant VC scene offers unique advantages for startups across these and many other sectors. VC Firms in New York Investing in Startups 2024 1. Union Square Ventures According to their website, “Union Square Ventures is a venture capital firm focused on early-stage, growth-capital, late stage, and startup financing.” Investment Range Union Square Ventures invests in a large range of companies. Looking at their website and you’ll find that they invest in anywhere between Series A and Series D stages. Industries Union Square is self-described as a “thesis-driven” investor. They are currently investing off of their Thesis 3.0: “Enabling trusted brands that broaden access to knowledge, capital, and well-being by leveraging networks, platforms, and protocols.” Check out more about their Thesis 3.0, recent investments, and key ideas below: 2. Insight Partners According to the Insight Partners website, “Insight accelerates revenue and profit in software companies. Our obsession with software has produced a habit of success. We recognize industry patterns, emerging tech markets and software trends. We’ve accumulated the knowledge to understand the strategies needed to win.” Investment Range Insight Partners will invest across every stage but their bread and butter are “scale-up” companies. Insight will invest anywhere from pre-seed to series C and beyond stages — generally with a check size between $10M and $350M. Industries Insight is focused on software companies. However, they invest in a number of different sectors that you can find here (or below): 3. Scout Ventures According to the Scout Ventures website, “Scout Ventures is an early-stage venture capital firm that invests in frontier and dual-use technologies built by veterans, intelligence leaders, and premier research labs. By leveraging our network of professional investors, operators, and experienced entrepreneurs, Scout can effectively execute every aspect of our investment thesis. We’re also paving the way for military veterans and intelligence professionals to access hundreds of millions in government grants and non-dilutive capital. The firm has three locations: Austin, New York City, Washington, DC.” Investment Range Scout Ventures writes checks anywhere between $100,000 and $3M. According to their website, “We lead Seed rounds with $1-2M initial checks and reserve capital for follow-on investments up to Series B.” Industries According to the Scout website, “We focus on sectors aligned to our experience serving in defense and building multi-billion dollar companies: AI/ML, quantum computing, robotics, advanced materials science, security, space & aerospace, and advanced energy.” 4. Greycroft According to their website, “Greycroft is a venture capital firm that focuses on technology start-ups and investments in the Internet and mobile markets.” According to the team at Greycroft, “Greycroft typically makes initial investments from $500,000 at the seed stage to up to $30 million from the growth stage. We are an active Series A investor and typically invest between $1 million and $10 million. The growth fund targets investing $10 to $30 million on an initial basis and may reserve up to double that amount over time. The growth fund focuses on later-stage companies with proven unit economics, annual revenue growth in excess of 50%, and a management team that is prepared to scale.” Industries On the Greycroft website, you’ll find that they invest in a number of different industries — ”We invest across a broad range of Internet sectors. We currently group our portfolio into four verticals: Consumer Internet, Fintech, Healthcare, and Enterprise Software.” 5. RRE Ventures RRE Ventures has been funding software startups since the 90s. According to their website, “RRE Ventures is a New York-based venture capital firm that offers early-stage funding to software, internet, and communications companies.” Investment Range The team at RRE invests in a variety of early-stage tech and software companies. According to their Visible Connect profile, they invest in Series A and B companies with an average check size between $4M and $15M. Industries According to their website, “RRE invests in early-stage, technology-enabled companies across all sectors and across the country. We back credible teams executing against incredible ideas to build category-defining businesses.” Check it out here or learn more below: 6. Lerer Hippeau According to their website, “Lerer Hippeau is an early-stage venture capital fund founded and operated in New York City. We invest in good people with great ideas who redefine categories — and create new ones entirely.” Investment Range The team at Lerer Hippeau has 3 funds that invest in pre-seed to Series C and beyond companies. Industries The team at Lerer Hippeau is industry-agnostic and will invest in any company — including enterprise and consumer landscapes. 7. Starta According to their website, “​​Starta is a venture ecosystem to find, foster, and fund early-stage talent in tech. Our mission is to provide opportunities to: International startups who want to scale globally and raise capital Aspiring industry leaders, seeking professional training Investors who believe in long-term growth potential and a strong connection with the community Starta values inclusivity and diversity. Having worked with over 200 startups from all over the world, we intensively focus on bringing equal opportunities and support to the ecosystem.” Investment Range Like many of the other firms on this list, Starta has multiple funds that invest in many stages. Starta operates both an accelerator and early-stage fund intended for seed and series A companies. Industries The Starta team has a focus on international startups that are looking to expand and scale their US presence. 8. FirstMark FirstMark is an early-stage venture capital firm headquartered in New York City. As put by their team, “We are proud to back the ambitious founders of the most iconic companies in the world.” Investment Range According to their Visible Connect profile, the team at FirstMark writes checks anywhere between $500k and $15M. Industries The team at FirstMark invests in companies of a variety of industries and sectors. They have major focus areas of Enterprise, Consumer, and Frontier companies. 9. Hypothesis According to the Hypothesis website, “We build and fund companies. We’re a startup studio and seed fund that launches, funds, and scales exceptional companies.” Investment Range As a startup studio, Hypothesis focuses on finding successful founders and co-founders and helps them launch and scale businesses. In addition to capital, Hypothesis portfolio companies receive resources and help with sales and marketing, hiring, product development, follow-up funding, etc. Industries The team at Hypothesis will invest in companies across many industries and are focused on “mission-driven” companies and founders. 10. Interlace Ventures According to the team at Interlace Ventures, “Investing in early-stage commerce- and retail-technology companies gives us unparalleled access to the latest technological innovations and trends across commerce and retail. We leverage this access by partnering with global brands and retailers to support their innovation efforts. We do this through a variety of methods, all of with are tailored after each partner’s individual needs and priorities.” Investment Range The team at Interlace invests in pre-seed to series A-stage companies. According to their Visible Connect Profile, they will write checks anywhere between $150k and $600k. Industries Interlace has a focus on commerce and retail companies. 11. FJ Labs FJ Labs is a prominent venture capital firm based in New York City, renowned for its extensive network and hands-on approach to investing. Founded by experienced entrepreneurs Fabrice Grinda and Jose Marin, FJ Labs focuses on creating value for founders and investors. The firm leverages its deep industry expertise and global connections to support startups in achieving their growth potential. FJ Labs is particularly noted for its collaborative ethos, working closely with portfolio companies to navigate the complexities of scaling and market expansion. Investment Range FJ Labs typically invests in pre-seed to Series A rounds, with investment amounts ranging from $50,000 to $500,000. Focusing on early-stage investments, FJ Labs provides critical funding enabling startups to develop their products, gain market traction, and prepare for subsequent funding rounds. Their flexible investment strategy allows them to tailor their support to the unique needs of each startup, ensuring that founders receive the resources necessary to succeed. Industries FJ Labs has a diverse investment portfolio, strongly emphasizing marketplaces and network effects businesses. They are particularly interested in industries such as e-commerce, real estate tech, fintech, and mobility. FJ Labs seeks out startups that leverage technology to disrupt traditional markets and create new growth opportunities. Their broad industry focus enables them to identify innovative business models and support visionary entrepreneurs across various sectors. 12. VentureOut VentureOut is a unique venture capital firm and accelerator based dedicated to bridging the gap between international startups and the US market. With a focus on helping startups expand globally, VentureOut offers a comprehensive suite of services designed to support international entrepreneurs in scaling their businesses in the US. The firm combines investment with an accelerator program that provides mentorship, networking opportunities, and strategic guidance, making it an ideal partner for startups looking to make a significant impact in the American market. Investment Range VentureOut typically invests in early-stage companies, with investment amounts ranging from $50,000 to $250,000. Their funding is often coupled with participation in their accelerator programs, which offer startups additional resources to refine their business models, develop go-to-market strategies, and establish a presence in the US. This dual approach of investment and acceleration helps startups gain the momentum they need to succeed in a competitive market. Industries VentureOut focuses on various industries, with a particular emphasis on technology-driven sectors. They are especially interested in software, fintech, health tech, and enterprise tech startups. By concentrating on these high-growth areas, VentureOut aims to support innovative companies that have the potential to transform industries and drive technological advancements. Their industry focus and international expertise position VentureOut as a valuable partner for startups seeking to expand their reach and impact in the US market. 13. FirstMark FirstMark is a distinguished venture capital firm known for its commitment to backing visionary entrepreneurs. With a track record of successful investments, FirstMark partners with startups that have the potential to revolutionize their industries. The firm is dedicated to providing not only capital but also strategic support and access to an extensive network of industry leaders. By fostering close relationships with their portfolio companies, FirstMark helps founders navigate the challenges of scaling their businesses and achieving long-term success. Investment Range FirstMark typically invests in seed and early-stage companies, with investment amounts ranging from $500,000 to $10 million. This substantial range allows FirstMark to support startups at various stages of their development, from initial product launches to significant growth phases. Their flexible investment approach ensures that each startup receives the appropriate level of funding to meet its unique needs and objectives. Industries FirstMark has a broad investment focus with a strong emphasis on technology and innovation. They are particularly interested in sectors such as enterprise software, consumer technology, fintech, healthcare, and emerging technologies like AI and blockchain. FirstMark seeks out startups that are poised to disrupt traditional markets and create new growth opportunities. By investing in a diverse array of industries, FirstMark aims to support the next generation of transformative companies and help shape the future of technology and innovation. 14. New York Angels New York Angels is a prominent angel investment group based in New York City, dedicated to providing early-stage funding and mentorship to innovative startups. Comprising a diverse network of seasoned entrepreneurs and business leaders, New York Angels offers a wealth of experience and strategic insight to help young companies grow and succeed. The organization is known for its collaborative approach, working closely with founders to refine their business models, develop market strategies, and connect with additional resources and expertise. Investment Range New York Angels typically invests in seed and early-stage companies, with investment amounts ranging from $250,000 to $1 million. By focusing on the crucial early stages of a startup's development, New York Angels provides the necessary capital to help companies validate their business ideas, build their initial products, and gain market traction. Their investment approach is designed to offer startups the financial support they need to reach critical milestones and prepare for subsequent funding rounds. Industries New York Angels has a broad investment focus, with a particular interest in technology-driven sectors. They frequently invest in industries such as software, fintech, health tech, consumer products, and media. This diverse industry focus allows New York Angels to support a wide array of innovative startups, fostering growth and innovation across multiple sectors. By backing companies that leverage technology to create new solutions and disrupt existing markets, New York Angels aims to contribute to the advancement of the entrepreneurial ecosystem in New York City and beyond. 15. New York Venture Partners New York Venture Partners (NYVP) is a leading venture capital firm based in New York City, focused on supporting early-stage startups with a combination of capital, mentorship, and strategic resources. Known for its hands-on approach, NYVP aims to help founders build scalable businesses by providing more than just funding. The firm's extensive network and industry expertise enable it to offer valuable insights and connections, making NYVP a vital partner for startups looking to navigate the complexities of growth and market entry. Investment Range New York Venture Partners typically invests in seed and early-stage companies, with investment amounts ranging from $100,000 to $1 million. This investment range is designed to provide startups with the essential funding required to develop their products, refine their business models, and achieve early market traction. NYVP's focus on early-stage investments ensures that startups receive the support they need during the critical phases of their development. Industries NYVP has a diverse investment focus, particularly on technology and innovation-driven sectors. They are especially interested in industries such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, digital media, consumer internet, and enterprise software. By targeting these high-growth areas, New York Venture Partners aims to back startups that have the potential to disrupt traditional markets and introduce groundbreaking technologies. Their broad industry focus allows them to identify and support promising startups across a wide range of fields, fostering innovation and entrepreneurial success in the New York City area and beyond. 16. Primary Primary is a prominent venture capital firm based in New York. It is dedicated to investing in early-stage startups and helping them grow into market leaders. Known for its data-driven approach and hands-on involvement, Primary provides comprehensive support to its portfolio companies. The firm leverages its deep industry knowledge and extensive network to offer strategic guidance, operational expertise, and valuable resources. Primary's commitment to building long-term partnerships with founders makes it a trusted ally for startups navigating the challenges of scaling and achieving sustainable growth. Investment Range Primary typically invests in seed and Series A rounds, with investment amounts ranging from $1 million to $5 million. This substantial investment range allows Primary to provide the necessary capital for startups to develop their products, expand their teams, and accelerate their go-to-market strategies. By focusing on early-stage investments, Primary ensures that founders receive the financial support they need during the critical phases of their company's development. Industries Primary has a strong focus on technology-driven sectors, particularly those with the potential for significant market disruption. They are especially interested in industries such as SaaS, e-commerce, fintech, health tech, and proptech. Primary seeks out startups that leverage innovative technologies to solve complex problems and create new market opportunities. Their industry focus allows them to identify and support high-potential startups across various fields, fostering innovation and driving growth in the New York City startup ecosystem. Challenges to Consider When Raising Venture Capital in New York City While New York City offers many advantages for founders, it’s also one of the most competitive VC landscapes in the world. First, the number of startups vying for investor attention can make it challenging to stand out. Founders should be prepared to present a compelling story and clear differentiation showcasing their startup's unique value to its sector. Costs associated with raising in New York can also be higher, from operational expenses to talent acquisition. While access to skilled talent is beneficial, competing with larger, established companies for top hires may require higher budgets, especially in technical and executive roles. Another consideration is the distinct approach some NYC VCs take compared to investors in other regions. New York investors may prioritize fast growth and revenue-generating potential, particularly in highly competitive sectors like fintech and media. Founders may need to show evidence of early traction and market fit to build credibility with these investors. Lastly, the pace of the city’s startup environment is brisk, often requiring founders to maintain a quick, adaptable approach to accommodate investor expectations and the ever-evolving market. How to Approach New York City Venture Capital Firms Founders can gain a competitive edge by demonstrating local traction or partnerships within the NYC ecosystem. Whether securing early customers in the area or collaborating with local industry leaders, evidence of a New York footprint can be highly appealing to investors. Founders should also remain persistent and adaptable, following up with VCs respectfully and iterating on their pitch based on feedback. With preparation, a solid network, and a clear presentation, founders can better capture the attention of New York City’s top venture capitalists. Connect with Investors in New York With 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 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. Related Resource: The Top 10 VC Firms for Startups in the Greater New York Area Related Resource: Private Equity vs Venture Capital: Critical Differences Related Resource: The 12 Best VC Funds You Should Know About Related Resource: 11 Top Venture Capital Firms in Boston

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.

The Current Fundraising Landscape in Europe The fundraising landscape in Europe has evolved significantly in recent years, presenting both challenges and opportunities for founders seeking capital. Understanding the current environment is crucial for successfully navigating the fundraising process. Key Trends in the European Fundraising Landscape Increased Caution and Selectivity: The European VC landscape has become more cautious, with average fund sizes decreasing and larger funds gaining prominence. This shift reflects a preference for scale and stability amidst economic uncertainties. Investors are emphasizing differentiation, strategic alignment, and transparency to attract limited partners (LPs). Sectoral Shifts and Focus on Resilience: Despite a general downturn, certain sectors like greentech, healthcare, and deeptech have continued to attract significant investment. These sectors are seen as more resilient and future-proof, aligning with a broader strategic shift towards sustainable and socially responsible investments. Extended Fundraising Cycles: Fundraising cycles have lengthened due to increased demand for capital and more rigorous due diligence processes. The competition among VC firms has intensified, with LPs favoring experienced managers who can demonstrate a strong track record and deep market knowledge​​. Emphasis on ESG Criteria: Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors have become a significant consideration for investors. LPs are increasingly prioritizing investments that align with ESG criteria, reflecting a global trend towards responsible and sustainable investing. Cross-Border Investments: There is a growing trend towards cross-border investments within Europe. This shift highlights the importance of networking and building relationships across different regions to tap into a broader pool of capital​​. Regional Differences in the European Fundraising Landscape Navigating the fundraising landscape in Europe requires an understanding of the unique characteristics and opportunities within each region. Founders should leverage the strengths of their local ecosystems while being mindful of the potential challenges. By tailoring their strategies to the specific dynamics of Western Europe, the Nordic countries, or Eastern Europe, entrepreneurs can better position themselves for successful fundraising and growth. Western Europe: Vibrant Startup Ecosystems Key Hubs: London, Berlin, Paris Western Europe boasts some of the most vibrant startup ecosystems globally, particularly in cities like London, Berlin, and Paris. These hubs are renowned for their dynamic environments and access to a wide range of investors. London: As one of the leading financial centers in the world, London offers unparalleled access to venture capital and a diverse pool of investors. The city is home to numerous accelerators and incubators, providing robust support for startups at various stages. Additionally, London’s strong legal and financial infrastructure makes it an attractive destination for founders​​. Berlin: Known for its creative and tech-savvy culture, Berlin has become a hotspot for startups, particularly in the tech and creative industries. The city benefits from relatively lower living costs compared to other Western European capitals, which can be advantageous for early-stage companies. Berlin’s vibrant community and numerous co-working spaces foster a collaborative environment conducive to innovation​​. Paris: Paris has emerged as a significant player in the European startup scene, thanks to initiatives like Station F, the world’s largest startup campus. The French government’s pro-business reforms and tax incentives have further bolstered the city’s attractiveness to entrepreneurs and investors alike. Paris also benefits from a rich cultural scene and a strategic location within Europe. Nordic Countries: Innovation and Governmental Support Key Characteristics: Innovation, Strong Governmental Support The Nordic region, comprising countries like Sweden, Denmark, Finland, and Norway, is renowned for its innovative spirit and strong governmental support for startups. Innovation: Nordic countries consistently rank high in global innovation indexes. The region’s emphasis on research and development, combined with a strong educational system, creates a fertile ground for cutting-edge startups, particularly in sectors like fintech, cleantech, and healthtech. Governmental Support: Governments in the Nordic countries provide substantial support to startups through grants, subsidies, and favorable regulatory frameworks. Initiatives like Sweden’s Vinnova and Finland’s Tekes offer financial assistance and resources to help startups scale. Additionally, the Nordic model of collaboration between the public and private sectors enhances the overall ecosystem. Eastern Europe: Growing Tech Hubs Key Hubs: Warsaw, Budapest Eastern Europe is witnessing the emergence of several tech hubs, particularly in cities like Warsaw and Budapest. These regions offer unique advantages, though they also present certain challenges. Warsaw: As the capital of Poland, Warsaw has become a burgeoning tech hub with a rapidly growing startup scene. The city offers lower operational costs compared to Western Europe, making it an attractive destination for early-stage startups. However, the investment ecosystem is still developing, and founders may find fewer investors compared to more established markets. Budapest: Hungary’s capital, Budapest, is another rising star in the Eastern European tech landscape. The city benefits from a skilled workforce and a vibrant entrepreneurial community. Similar to Warsaw, Budapest offers lower costs, which can extend the runway for startups. However, access to capital remains a challenge, with fewer local investors available. Navigating the Legal and Regulatory Landscape By navigating the legal and regulatory landscape effectively, European startups can establish a solid foundation for growth and innovation. Ensuring compliance and protecting intellectual property are critical steps in building a sustainable and competitive business. Legal Structures Company Formation Choosing the right legal structure is a foundational step for any startup. In Europe, several common legal structures are suitable for startups, each with its advantages and implications. Limited Liability Company (LLC): This is one of the most popular legal forms due to its flexibility and the limited liability it offers to its owners. LLCs can vary slightly in terms of regulations and formation procedures across different European countries. Generally, an LLC can be formed by one or more individuals or entities, and the owners are not personally liable for the company’s debts beyond their initial investment​​. Societas Europaea (SE): The SE is a public company structure that allows businesses to operate across multiple European countries under a unified legal framework. This can be particularly advantageous for startups planning to expand internationally within Europe. The SE offers flexibility in terms of corporate governance and can be formed through mergers or as a holding company, among other methods​​. Regulations and Compliance Compliance with regulatory requirements is essential for operating legally and maintaining investor confidence. General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR): GDPR compliance is mandatory for businesses operating in Europe. This regulation governs data protection and privacy for all individuals within the EU and the European Economic Area (EEA). Startups must ensure they have robust data protection measures in place, including obtaining explicit consent for data collection, implementing data protection by design, and appointing a Data Protection Officer (DPO) if necessary. Non-compliance can result in significant fines. Other Regulatory Considerations: Depending on the industry, there may be additional regulations to comply with, such as financial regulations for fintech startups or health regulations for biotech companies. It’s crucial to stay informed about sector-specific requirements and ensure ongoing compliance through regular audits and updates to company policies​​. Intellectual Property (IP) Patents and Trademarks Protecting intellectual property is vital for safeguarding a startup’s innovations and maintaining a competitive edge. Patents: Patents protect inventions by granting the patent holder exclusive rights to use, sell, or license the invention for a specific period, typically 20 years. To secure a patent in Europe, startups must file an application with the European Patent Office (EPO). The application process involves a detailed description of the invention, claims defining the scope of protection, and technical drawings. Patents are essential for tech startups and others with novel products or processes. Trademarks: Trademarks protect brand names, logos, and slogans that distinguish a company’s goods or services. Registering a trademark with the European Union Intellectual Property Office (EUIPO) provides protection across all EU member states. The registration process involves a search to ensure the trademark is unique, followed by the submission of an application detailing the trademark and the goods or services it covers​​. IP Strategy Developing a comprehensive IP strategy can add significant value to a startup and protect its core assets. Assessing and Prioritizing IP: Start by identifying all potential IP assets, including patents, trademarks, copyrights, and trade secrets. Prioritize these based on their importance to your business model and competitive advantage. For example, a tech startup might focus on patents for its innovative technologies, while a consumer goods company might prioritize trademarks. Protection and Enforcement: Once identified, take steps to protect your IP through appropriate registrations. Regularly monitor the market for potential infringements and be prepared to enforce your rights through legal action if necessary. This not only protects your assets but also demonstrates to investors that you are proactive in safeguarding your business interests​​. Leveraging IP: Consider how your IP can be leveraged to create additional value. This could include licensing agreements, strategic partnerships, or even using IP as collateral for financing. An effective IP strategy can enhance your company’s valuation and provide additional revenue streams. Biggest VCs in Europe 1. Global Founders Capital Global Founders Capital is a fund that invests worldwide across any sector and stage. As put by their team, “Global Founders Capital is a globally oriented, stage agnostic venture capital firm that empowers gifted entrepreneurs worldwide. Global. We support founders in all geographies. Stage agnostic. We back companies across all stages and throughout the lifecycle. Operational. Our platform offers founders all the support they need to scale.” Location Global Founders Capital is located in Berlin but they invests in companies across the globe. Portfolio Highlights Global Founders Capital has invested in 900+ companies. Over their course of investing, they’ve backed popular companies such as: Canva Delivery Hero Slack Brex Funding Stage Global Founders Capital invests across all stages and business lifecycles. 2. Hiventures As put by their team, “Hiventures is the biggest and most active capital investment partner of the development of Hungarian enterprises. Our mission is to provide resources for the growth and innovation of Hungarian enterprises by offering unique capital financing solutions. Our investment programmes are available from the idea phase to large enterprises, which allows us to cover the entire entrepreneurial ecosystem and thus improve its competitiveness. We are a reliable and flexible investment partner of our portfolio companies in terms of development and crisis management as well.” Related Resource: Private Equity vs Venture Capital: Critical Differences Location Hiventures is located in Hungary and funds companies that are located in Hungary. Portfolio Highlights Some of Hiventure's most popular investments include: Likespace Neonectar Unreal Industries Funding Stage Hiventures has multiple funds that invest in stages from pre-seed to seed and growth stage. 3. High-Tech Grunderfonds As put by their team, “HTGF is a venture capital investor for innovative technologies and business models. We successfully support the best founders whose ideas can revolutionize entire industries and improve people’s lives – from seed to exit. As a seed investor, we have financed 700 start-ups in the industrial tech, digital tech, life sciences, and chemicals sectors. We have overseen more than 160 exits, including IPOs. When founding your company together with us, you benefit from an experienced partner at your side.” Location HTGF has offices in both Bonn and Berlin and invests in companies with headquarters in Germany. Portfolio Highlights Some of High-Tech Grunderfonds most popular investments include: Instagrid Taxdoo Orbex Funding Stage HTGF is focused on seed-stage companies that have been around for less than 3 years. As put by their team, “We flexibly invest up to 1 million euros in the seed round – as lead investor, but also gladly together with partners. You can bring this with you or we will contact suitable investors from our network for you. In total, we can invest 4 million euros across all financing rounds and we open doors.” 4. Seedcamp As put by their team, “We invest early in world-class founders attacking large, global markets and solving real problems using technology. We are first-cheque investors, backing founders with ticket sizes between £300K-500K. We have led first rounds in unicorn businesses like TransferWise, Revolut, and Hopin along with the likes of Pleo and Sorare. You may have already raised a small amount of capital from friends and family but this is most likely your first round of institutional investment. It doesn’t matter where in your product development you are; if you think the Seedcamp Network — the most powerful, collaborative, connected, and experienced network you’ll find — can help supercharge your idea, you’ve come to the right place.” Learn more about Seedcamp by checking out their Visible Connect profile → Location Seedcamp is located in London. Portfolio Highlights Seedcamp has invested in 460+ companies. Some of their most popular investments include: Wefox Primer UiPath Funding Stage Seedcamp tries to be the first check in a company. They typically write checks between £300K and 500K. 5. Par Equity As put by the team at Par Equity, “Founded in 2008, our investment model is designed to identify and back the most innovative, high growth technology companies in the North of the UK. We’re based in Edinburgh and we’re investing across Northern England, Northern Ireland and Scotland. Key to our success is our distinctive hybrid investment model, combining our discretionary managed funds with the skills, expertise and contacts of the Par Investor Network – a large and engaged pool of investors and mentors with a track record of founding, growing and selling companies, who can add value throughout the investment life cycle. This investment strategy, fusing the experience of angel investors with the professionalism and rigour of an experienced venture capital fund manager, is a force multiplier for Par Equity, delivering better outcomes for the investors and the entrepreneurs.” Learn more about Par Equity by checking out their Visible Connect profile → Location Par Equity is located in Edinburgh and invests in companies across Northern England, Northern Ireland, and Scotland. Portfolio Highlights Some of Par Equity’s most popular investments include: Aveni Cumulus Kibosh Funding Stage Par Equity looks to invest in companies with more than £20k of monthly revenue and are seeking to raise between £0.5m to £10m. 6. Partech As put by their team, “Partech is a global investment platform for tech and digital companies, led by ex-entrepreneurs and operators of the industry spread across offices in San Francisco, Paris, Berlin and Dakar. We invest from €200K to €75M in a broad range of technologies and businesses for enterprises and consumers, from software, digital brands and services to hardware and deep tech, across all major industries.” Learn more about Partech by checking out their Visible Connect profile → Location Partech has offices in San Francisco, Paris, Berlin, and Dakar and invests in companies across the globe. Portfolio Highlights Some of Partech’s most popular investments include: Alan OneFocus Bolt Funding Stage Partech has multiple funds and invests in companies from seed to growth stages. Related Resource: Breaking Ground: Exploring the World of Venture Capital in France 7. Speedinvest As put by the team at Speedinvest, “We refuse to be just another investor who sends you money and shows up at board meetings to provide “advice.” Our mission is to empower you throughout your journey with actionable, aligned and game-changing support. From day one, you have full access to our experienced investors, Platform+ operational experts and global networks of industry partners. Whatever you need to succeed, we do everything in our power to help make it happen.” Learn more about Speedinvest by checking out their Visible Connect profile → Location Speedinvest has offices in Berlin, London, Munich, Paris, and Vienna and funds companies that are located in Europe. Portfolio Highlights Some of Speedinvest’s most popular investments include: Wefox Bitpanda Primer Funding Stage As put by their team, “We are early-stage investors with a strong focus on pre-seed and seed rounds. But to be honest, some of our best investments were stretching the limits of how “seed” is defined, so we grant ourselves some flexibility here.” 8. Octopus Ventures As put by their team, “Octopus Ventures is one of the largest and most active venture capital investors in Europe. Our mission is simple – to invest in the people, ideas and industries that will change the world. For the last few years, we’ve focused our efforts, and our investments, on three areas where we think we can make the biggest impact. We focus on building a more sustainable planet, empowering people and revitalizing healthcare.” Learn more about Octopus Ventures by checking out their Visible Connect profile → Location Octopus Ventures has offices in London, Manchester, and New York. Portfolio Highlights Octopus has funded over 180 companies. Some of their most popular investments include: Graze Elliptic Lollipop Funding Stage Octopus Ventures invests in companies from pre-seed to series B. Learn more about how their process changes depending on stage here. Related Resource: A Quick Overview on VC Fund Structure 9. Hoxton Ventures We take risks on brilliant people and products. We work with founders on a mission to change the one thing they think is fundamentally broken in the world. We welcome young or first-time founders who are technical or domain experts in their field. Our focus is finding Europe’s best early stage tech startups and building them into large revenue, category-defining companies. We believe great companies are built by great teams, not by venture capitalists. Some might call our approach old-school. We lead pre-seed or seed rounds. We invest at fair terms and reserve capital to continue investing through a company’s journey. We typically invest between $500k to $5 million, although we have gone as low as $250,000 and as high as $10 million. We like to aim for an ownership position between 10% to 20%. When we believe in your vision, market and team, we get conviction quickly. We often write the first large check a company receives. We aren’t afraid of being the only investor, but are happy to invest alongside others. We work hard behind the scenes to maximize value. We provide introductions, help make key hires, provide market intel, ink strategic partnerships and handle difficult operational issues. Sometimes we might even spark crazy acquisition offers. Often, our work is providing a sage perspective that comes from living through multiple market cycles, and having the forthrightness to hold honest conversations others shy away from. Having spent most of our working lives in Silicon Valley, we aim to replicate in Europe what we saw work in California. We dream big and are unashamedly ambitious for our companies. Learn more about Hoxton Ventures by checking out their Visible Connect profile → Location London, England, United Kingdom Portfolio Highlights Hoxton Ventures has made 105 investments. Cogna Fluent Baseimmune Inoviv Fabrica AI Funding Stage We lead pre-seed or seed rounds. 10. 83North 3North is a global venture capital firm with more than $2B under management that invests in European and Israeli entrepreneurs creating global businesses. Our philosophy remains the same since we started operating 17 years ago and is centered around the belief that venture is not a scalable business. We are four equal partners; we have worked together for many years and our operation is lean. Our small size ensures a very high level of trust in the partnership. This translates into transparent and quick processes which are critical for entrepreneurs. Despite our focused approach, we invest globally (US, Europe, Israel) and operate across many segments. We can do this because we rely mainly on word of mouth and referrals from our own entrepreneurs and executives. Learn more about 83North by checking out their Visible Connect profile → Location London, England, United Kingdom Portfolio Highlights 83North has made 224 investments. Snappy Vertice Orbem Lendbuzz floLIVE Funding Stage Seed, Series A, Series B, Series C, Series D, Growth 11. Kima Ventures Kima Ventures promotes the growth of startups, supporting them in the fastest and most effective ways. We fund ambitious, cohesive teams with stellar learning and execution curves. Investing in 2 to 3 startups per week, all over the world. Learn more about Kima Ventures by checking out their Visible Connect profile → Location Paris, Ile-de-France, France Portfolio Highlights Kima Ventures has made 774 investments. Zenly TransferWise PayFit Carta Sqreen Front Funding Stage Early Stage Venture, Seed 12. Atomico Atomico is a risk capital group. They are entrepreneurs with global perspectives who invest their own capital in passionate entrepreneurs with powerful ideas. Through their experience building Skype, Joost and Kazaa, they understand the value of game-changing business models and have created a worldwide ecosystem to help accelerate the growth of the companies in which they invest. Learn more about Atomico by checking out their Visible Connect profile → Location London, England, United Kingdom Portfolio Highlights Atomico has made 227 investments. Klarna Lilium HingeHealth MessageBird Funding Stage Pre-seed, Seed, Series A, Series B, Series C, Growth Looking for Investors? Try Visible Today! At Visible, we oftentimes compare a venture fundraise to a traditional B2B sales and marketing funnel. At the top of the funnel, you are finding potential investors via cold outreach and warm introductions. In the middle of the funnel, you are nurturing potential investors with meetings, pitch decks, updates, and other communications. At the bottom of the funnel, you are working through due diligence and hopefully closing new investors. Related Resource: The Understandable Guide to Startup Funding Stages Just as a sales and marketing team has dedicated tools, shouldn’t a founder that is managing their investors and fundraising efforts? 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.

Tear sheets are an important component of the venture capital industry. If you’re new to VC, it's crucial to understand what a tear sheet is and how to create a valuable and effective one for your fund. What is a Tear Sheet? A tear sheet is a single-page summary of an individual company. A tear sheet is a critical term to understand in the venture capital world. Beyond a simple understanding of what a tear sheet is, it’s important to learn how a tear sheet is best used and how to create one. The term “tear sheet” originated from pre-internet business when S&P would produce summary sheets for public companies on one page. All of these single-page summaries could be torn out of a larger book containing all of the summary sheets. This act of tearing out the relevant page stuck around. Even though the physical act of tearing a sheet is gone, the single-page summary, the tear sheet, has withstood the test of time and is an extremely important piece of collateral for anyone working in VC to understand. A tear sheet should contain overview information about a company. This should include the total investment amount, gains/losses, sector, and a summary of company performance. Essentially, anything that will allow the reader to get a quick snapshot of the business and give them an understanding of earning potential that is possible should be included on the tear sheet. The LPs (limited partners) or investors at a VC firm are a key audience that will be viewing the tear sheet. You want to make a good impression when presenting information to LPs. Therefore, when thinking about putting together tear sheets for your portfolio companies, it’s important to make them look professional and use them to effectively communicate concise updates about your companies. Well-put-together tear sheets can go a long way in impressing LPs. View Tear Sheet examples from Visible. Tear Sheet Templates When building out tear sheets for your portfolio companies, make sure to include both metrics and qualitative data about your companies. If you’re looking for a tear sheet template (read on to learn more about tear sheet templates in Visible!) make sure to find a template that includes both of these categories. Start with metrics, or quantitative data about the company. A few metrics to consider including*: Revenue – Revenue and revenue growth over time is an easy way to understand the health status of a company. While not an accurate portrayal of the company as a whole, it gives LPs a sense of the stage of the company. FTE Headcount & New Hires – This is typically considered non-sensitive data from portfolio companies but again gives LPs an idea of the stage of the company and how they’re growing over time. It also is an indicator of how a company is using their cash. True North KPIs – Depending on the type of company, this might differ. The true north KPIs in a tear sheet template should be the key performance indicators that are guiding the business every single day. Beyond revenue goals, examples of other KPIs could be active users, a customer net promoter score, active customers, or average contract value. *Note: It’s important to maintain privacy for portfolio companies and receive permission to share information with LPs. It’s also a best practice to share the same level of detail across all companies. Another important section to include on a tear sheet is an investment overview. Some items to include are: Total Invested – It’s helpful to remind LPs about the total invested in a company and how it compares to others in the portfolio. Date of Initial Investment – This gives a sense of how long it has been since the initial investment and gives context on when to expect a return. Investment Multiple – This provides LPs with an idea of the expected return in the future. Shifting from the metrics on your tear sheet template, consider the following qualitative points to include in your tear sheet: Company Tagline – This is an easy and concise way to orient or remind an LP about what the company does. Sector – This simple static property again helps provide context to LP’s who have invested in several funds. HQ Location – Helps everyone stay on top of where the portfolio is located. Narrative Update – This section is a commentary on recent highlights from the portfolio company. As always, it’s important not to disclose sensitive information about a portfolio company. Asks – Depending on your relationship with your companies and LPs, it may be appropriate to share ‘Asks’ from portfolio companies with LPs. For example: Company A is looking to hire a Head of Engineering based in Berlin and is seeking candidate referrals. Tear Sheet Examples A great place to start when creating your portfolio tear sheets and looking for tear sheet examples is to ask your network. Talk to experienced funds in your network. If they’ve raised several funds and have close relationships with their LPs, they probably have a great idea of what LPs like to see when receiving updates about portfolio companies. You can also check out Visible’s Tear Sheet Examples here. Using Visible for Portfolio Tear Sheets Visible is an incredibly useful tool for funds to report to the LPs on a consistent basis. You can take the quantitative data and qualitative information suggested above and turn it into a template right in Visible. Check out a tear sheet example in Visible below. How Visible Automatically Builds Tear Sheets Visible is the perfect tool to build tear sheets for all your companies in just a few clicks. Visible automatically builds tear sheets by: Equipping investors to automatically collect structured data from portfolio companies on a regular basis. As an investor, you can decide what data is most relevant to request from each company. Creating tear sheet templates that automatically pull in metric data, investment data, and qualitative properties that already exist within Visible. Interested in exploring how to build Tear Sheets in Visible?

Over the past decade, Las Vegas has undergone a rapid transformation from a city primarily known for entertainment and tourism into a vibrant and fast-growing startup ecosystem. A combination of strategic investments, a supportive business environment, and a growing community of entrepreneurs and investors drives this evolution. The city’s transformation began with a concerted effort to diversify its economy beyond gaming and hospitality. Initiatives such as the Downtown Project, launched by Zappos founder Tony Hsieh, injected $350 million into revitalizing downtown Las Vegas, attracting startups, tech talent, and creative professionals to the area. This project laid the groundwork for a collaborative and innovative community that continues to thrive today. The presence of organizations like StartUpNV, Nevada’s statewide startup accelerator and incubator, has further fueled the ecosystem by providing mentorship, funding, and networking opportunities for early-stage companies. Additionally, the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) has played a pivotal role through initiatives like Black Fire Innovation, which connects students, researchers, and entrepreneurs to drive innovation in hospitality, gaming, and technology. Top VCs and Investors in Las Vegas StartUpNV About: Nevada's Statewide Business Incubator and Startup Accelerator - Serving Entrepreneurs and Startup companies with locations in Las Vegas (HQ), Reno, and our rural counties. Thesis: Our mission is to grow a robust and inclusive startup ecosystem and diversify Nevada’s economy – with the participation of all Nevadans Sweetspot check size: $ 50K Traction metrics requirements: > Scalable, Nevada based, and likely to reach a minimum mid-8 figure valuation within 5-7 years. > Full Time Founder / Founding Team – focused on an exit in less than 7-10 years. > MVP, Beta, or v 1.0 of offering complete – in market now / ready to start selling or take orders. > Raising pre-seed or seed round now – or within 90 days at the latest. Redhills Ventures About: Redhills Ventures is a private family investment firm specializing in companies with well-conceived business plans, experienced management teams, and high-growth potential. Our team of seasoned investors brings a wealth of successful management experience in the financial, high-tech, and healthcare sectors, and have led companies through all stages of growth, from startup to IPO and beyond. Dream Ventures About: DREAM VENTURES is a female-focused fund and incubator. We have a simple focus: Connect female-owned businesses to AWESOME investors and land that DREAM deal you’ve always dreamed about. Battle Born Venture About: Battle Born Venture is Nevada's state venture capital program. It was created in 2013 to help our entrepreneurs stay local when it comes to fundraising. Since then, it has invested in high potential Nevadan startups, has co-invested with prestigious corporations and high profile venture capital firms, and has celebrated five exits. Varkain About: Varkain is a boutique seed investment firm focused on all industries, but has a particular interest in consumer technology. RMR Capital About: RMR Capital combines the best elements of the angel and venture capital communities. All funding decisions are made in-house, which lead to informed discussions and better results. With ideal investment sizes between $25K and $5MM, we have minority interests in portfolio companies and also act as lead investors. RMR Capital has experience in franchising as well as building businesses from the ground up. We support companies we invest in by providing board level advice as well as support through all phases of business development from our team of dedicated in-house legal, marketing and operations specialists. Rebel Venture Fund About: Rebel Venture Fund (RVF) is a student-run, early stage venture capital fund that operates in conjunction with the University of Nevada Las Vegas. Student associates are involved in the entire investment process, from screening business plans to writing checks. The process is overseen by RVF management board, consisting of venture capitalists, angel investors, attorneys, entrepreneurs, and business executives. Rebel Venture Fund will typically make investments between $25,000 and $50,000. CREAM About: C.R.E.A.M. stands for Crypto Rules Everything Around Me. We are a leading new age strategic advisory and Investment firm that utilizes blockchain and crypto-economy to unleash the potential of enterprises and startups around the globe. Headquartered in Las Vegas, Nevada, we focus on the incubation and tokenization of premium, cutting-edge startups and mature companies. Vantage Capital About: Vantage Capital was founded in 2017 and has since developed a rich network of business partners. We make early and transformational investments in companies that have the potential to do great things. Our dedicated team is made up of seasoned investors who are looking to partner with hard-working, visionary entrepreneurs. Business-Friendly Climate in Nevada: Taxes and State Initiatives Nevada’s reputation as one of the most business-friendly states in the United States is well-deserved, particularly for startup founders and entrepreneurs. The state’s pro-business climate is anchored by a combination of favorable tax policies, robust incentive programs, and a supportive regulatory environment designed to help new ventures thrive. Favorable Tax Structure One of the most significant advantages for startups in Nevada is its exceptionally low tax burden. As of 2025, Nevada ranks 7th in the nation for its business climate, according to the State Business Tax Climate Index. Key tax benefits include: No corporate income tax No personal income tax No franchise tax No inventory tax No inheritance/gift tax No estate tax This means founders can reinvest more of their earnings into growing their businesses, rather than paying high state taxes. Additionally, Nevada offers low-cost startup, regulatory, licensing, and annual fees, making it easier and more affordable to launch and operate a business in the state. State Incentives and Abatements Nevada’s state government actively encourages business growth through various incentive programs and tax abatements. These initiatives are designed to attract new companies, support job creation, and foster innovation. Some of the most notable programs include: Sales and Use Tax Abatement: Startups can benefit from reduced sales and use tax rates on qualified capital equipment purchases, with rates as low as 2% for up to 20 years, depending on the county and the type of business. Modified Business Tax Abatement: Eligible companies can receive a 50% abatement on the modified business tax rate for up to 10 years. Personal Property Tax Abatement: Up to 50% abatement on personal property taxes for a maximum of 10 years. Real Property Tax Abatement for Recycling: Up to 50% abatement for up to 10 years for businesses engaged in recycling or converting recycled material into energy. Data Center and Aviation Abatements: Special abatements for data centers and aviation companies, including significant reductions in sales, use, and property taxes for qualifying investments and job creation. To qualify for these abatements, companies typically need to meet criteria such as paying above-average wages, making a minimum capital investment, and creating a certain number of primary jobs. Companies must also offer medical insurance and cover at least 65% of the premium costs for employees. Additional State Initiatives Nevada’s commitment to fostering entrepreneurship extends beyond tax policy. The state has launched several programs to support startups, including: State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI): This federal-state partnership provides matching funds to Nevada-based startups, especially those participating in programs like StartUpNV, AngelNV, and FundNV. These funds help early-stage companies access the capital they need to grow. Workforce Development and Training Grants: Nevada offers grants and support for employee training, helping startups build skilled teams. Innovation-Based Economic Development: Programs like the Knowledge Fund and partnerships with local universities (e.g., UNLV’s Black Fire Innovation) provide resources for research, development, and commercialization of new technologies. Streamlined Regulatory Environment Nevada’s regulatory environment is designed to minimize bureaucratic hurdles for new businesses. The state offers a streamlined process for business registration and licensing, allowing startups to quickly establish a presence and focus on growth rather than red tape. Key Events, Meetups, and Resources for Founders in Las Vegas Las Vegas has rapidly become a hotspot for founders seeking not only capital but also a thriving, collaborative community. The city’s startup ecosystem is anchored by a robust calendar of events, active founder communities, and a growing network of coworking spaces and accelerators. Must-Attend Events and Meetups Tech AlleyTech Alley is a monthly event series that brings together founders, technologists, investors, and community leaders for networking, panel discussions, and startup showcases. It’s a cornerstone of the Las Vegas tech scene and a must for anyone looking to plug into the local ecosystem. StartUp Vegas EventsStartUp Vegas hosts several recurring events designed to foster collaboration and support among founders: LinkUp: Co-Working & Networking Day – Held monthly at WeWork Town Square, this event offers founders a chance to work side-by-side, share ideas, and build relationships in a relaxed coworking environment. LevelUp: A Night to Elevate StartUps – A pitch and feedback event where founders present to a panel of investors and receive immediate mentorship and support. RiseUp – A community event focused on empowering women in tech, featuring discussions, networking, and learning opportunities. Las Vegas Startup WeekPart of the global Techstars network, Las Vegas Startup Week is a five-day, entrepreneur-led event featuring workshops, panels, pitch competitions, and networking sessions. It’s one of the largest gatherings of founders, investors, and ecosystem builders in the region. Startup Champions Network SummitIn 2025, Las Vegas is hosting the Spring Ecosystem Builder Summit, drawing ecosystem builders, capital stewards, entrepreneurs, and policymakers from across the country. This event is a unique opportunity to connect with national leaders and learn about best practices in ecosystem development. UNLV EventsThe University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) regularly hosts pitch competitions, innovation showcases, and networking events through its Troesh Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation and Black Fire Innovation. These events are open to students and the broader founder community, providing access to university resources and talent. Other Major Conferences Las Vegas also hosts world-class conferences that are highly relevant for founders, including: Consumer Electronics Show (CES) Adobe Summit (digital marketing and e-commerce) Vegas Startup Week (with a dedicated marketing and growth track) Accelerators and Incubators Las Vegas is home to a growing number of accelerators and incubators that provide mentorship, funding, and community for early-stage startups: StartUpNV: Nevada’s statewide accelerator and incubator, offering a nine-month program, access to capital, and a strong mentor network. Downtown Project: Focused on revitalization and innovation in downtown Las Vegas, supporting startups across tech, arts, and hospitality. Troesh Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation: Based at UNLV, this center supports student and community entrepreneurs with education, mentorship, and funding opportunities. Black Fire Innovation: A partnership between UNLV and Caesars Entertainment, this incubator accelerates startups in gaming and hospitality. AFWERX: A U.S. Air Force innovation hub supporting dual-use technology startups. Urban Chamber of Commerce: Provides resources and connections for minority and small business founders. American Dream U: Focused on supporting military veterans and entrepreneurs with coworking, mentorship, and financial education. Connect With Investors in Las Vegas 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 Las Vegas' 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.

Manchester has rapidly emerged as the UK’s leading tech and startup hub outside of London, earning its reputation as the “engine room” of the Northern startup powerhouse. The city’s transformation from an industrial heartland to a digital innovation centre is underpinned by a unique blend of world-class universities, a supportive business ecosystem, and a growing network of investors and accelerators. Over the past decade, Manchester has experienced remarkable growth in its startup ecosystem. The number of private companies headquartered in the region has increased by 46.5%, while the number of high-growth companies has soared by 78% in the same period, making Manchester one of the most dynamic areas for startup activity in the UK. The city is now home to over 1,600 startups, employing more than 60,000 people, and is widely recognized as the second-largest tech startup hub in the UK after London. Manchester’s startup scene is not just about numbers—it’s about community and opportunity. The city regularly hosts high-profile networking events, demo days, and industry conferences, connecting founders with investors, mentors, and potential partners. Local government and business support organizations have doubled down on innovation, launching initiatives and a range of grant and loan programs to help startups scale. In this guide, we’ll introduce you to the top venture capital firms in Machester along with helpful resources and other funding sources. Top VCs and Investors in Manchester Praetura Ventures About: Praetura has been supporting SMEs since 2011, raising capital and investing in the early stages of business life cycles. DSW Ventures About: DSW Ventures is a national firm of seed and early-stage venture capital investment specialists focusing on regional UK growth businesses. We invest in technology and tech-led businesses with talented founders and a highly-scalable market position. NorthEdge About: NorthEdge manages £900m of private equity funds aimed at lower-mid market buy-out and development capital transactions. We are looking to invest in like-minded businesses and management teams who have real ambition and the potential to shape global markets from the regional powerhouses. Thesis: Our track record and the way we conduct ourselves sets us apart, and we put smart thinking and logical decision-making at the centre of everything we do. We are looking to invest typically between £2m – £45m in each business we back in growth and development capital, management buy-outs, equity release and buy-and-build opportunities. Our focus is on established businesses, typically with turnover greater than £5m and profits greater than £0.5m. Based in Birmingham, Leeds and Manchester, we understand the engines of the regional economy because we are one. KM Capital About: KM Capital is a Manchester-based seed venture capital fund, looking to invest in early-stage, tech-driven businesses. Our funding team has founded or scaled three of the UK's most successful digital businesses of recent years. We are a generalist fund but have a particular strength and specialism in consumer-focused companies. Livingbridge About: Livingbridge is a leading mid-market private equity firm. We empower businesses to unlock their true potential. This is investment done the right way, built on ambition and experience. Nobody has seen it all, but some get closer than others and since we started in 1999, we’ve supported over 170 investments. We take a flexible approach to investing, but we’re keenly focused on where we can add the most value, which is why we focus on four core sectors: technology, services, healthcare and education, and consumer. We are an ambitious and international team with offices in London, Manchester, Australia and the US. It is our footprint, local knowledge and network that has supported the successful growth of our companies over the last 25 years, with many now household names. GC Angels About: High-innovation potential, early-stage businesses haven't always been able to access the growth capital they need. GC Angels was formed to respond this imbalance in the early-stage equity market across the North. We invest alongside angel investors and funds, de-risking and unlocking deals with a focus on exciting, high-growth opportunities innovating across digital, creative and technology sectors. Thesis: We work with entrepreneurs based in the North raising equity between £25,000 - £2m to grow and scale their businesses. Local Support: Grants, Accelerators, and Government Initiatives in Manchester Manchester’s startup ecosystem is bolstered by a robust network of grants, accelerators, and government-backed initiatives designed to help founders access both dilutive (VC) and non-dilutive (grant, loan, and public) capital. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the most relevant support available in 2025, and how founders can strategically combine these resources for maximum impact. Major Grants and Public Funding Innovation Accelerator ProgrammeGreater Manchester is one of three UK regions piloting the £130 million Innovation Accelerator, led by Innovate UK and UK Research and Innovation. This programme funds transformative R&D projects in sectors like advanced materials, digital and tech, health innovation, and net zero. The initiative has already supported over 500 businesses and is extended through March 2026, providing direct funding and ecosystem support for startups and scaleups. GC Business FinanceGC Business Finance offers a range of affordable business loans and services for startups unable to access mainstream funding. Products include Start Up Loans (£500–£25,000), Business Loans for Greater Manchester (£3,000–£100,000), and the North West Micro Fund (£25,000–£50,000). These are ideal for early-stage founders seeking non-dilutive capital to complement VC investment. Business Growth Hub – Access to FinanceThe Business Growth Hub’s Access to Finance (A2F) service provides fully funded, bespoke support to help SMEs in Greater Manchester become investment-ready. Their finance specialists help founders identify and secure the most relevant public and private funding sources, including grants, loans, and equity. Small Innovation GrantsGreater Manchester regularly offers innovation grants (e.g., up to £5,000) to help SMEs bring new products and services to market. These grants are often sector-specific and can be combined with private investment to accelerate growth. Leading Accelerators and Incubators Turing Innovation Catalyst Manchester (TIC Manchester)TIC Manchester runs a 6-month hybrid accelerator for AI-first startups, providing learning, mentoring, networking, and investment opportunities. The programme is open to pre-seed, seed, and Series A startups in health, net zero, and generative AI, and is a key part of the region’s Innovation Accelerator projects. Manchester Digital – Startup ActivatorManchester Digital’s Startup Activator is a community-driven programme supporting founders from idea to early traction. It offers events, mentorship, and access to a vibrant tech community, helping startups connect with investors, accelerators, and other resources. University-Led IncubatorsThe University of Manchester and Manchester Metropolitan University both run incubators and enterprise programmes, supporting spinouts and student-led startups with funding, mentorship, and workspace. Turing Innovation Catalyst Manchester (TIC Manchester) AI Accelerator A 6-month hybrid accelerator for AI-first startups, offering mentoring, investment opportunities, and demo days. The program culminates in a showcase event for founders to pitch to investors and the wider community. ZEBOX UKA global accelerator and coworking hub in Manchester, ZEBOX offers flexible workspace, premium amenities, and exclusive monthly networking events with industry leaders. Government and Local Authority Initiatives Greater Manchester Combined Authority (GMCA)GMCA works closely with Innovate UK and local partners to deliver funding, skills support, and innovation programmes. Their ecosystem-oriented approach focuses on building interconnections and supporting high-growth sectors, including digital, health, and advanced manufacturing. MIDAS ManchesterMIDAS, Manchester’s inward investment agency, provides guidance and signposting to all relevant funding, grants, and support services for startups. They help founders navigate the landscape of public and private capital, including angel investment, tax relief, and knowledge transfer partnerships. Combining VC Funding with Non-Dilutive Capital Manchester founders are increasingly blending VC investment with grants and public funding to extend runway and reduce dilution. For example, a startup might secure a grant from the Innovation Accelerator to fund R&D, while raising a seed round from a local VC to scale operations. Many accelerators and public programmes are designed to make startups more attractive to private investors by de-risking early-stage innovation. Best Practices: Use grants and public loans to fund product development, research, or market validation. Leverage accelerator programmes for mentorship, investor introductions, and non-dilutive support. Find VCs in our Connect Investor database and approach them with a clear plan for how public funding will accelerate growth and reduce risk. Track all funding sources and milestones using a platform like Visible to streamline reporting and investor updates. Connect With Investors in Manchester 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 Manchester'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.

North Carolina has rapidly emerged as one of the Southeast’s most dynamic destinations for startup founders seeking venture capital, mentorship, and growth opportunities. With record-breaking funding rounds, a thriving innovation ecosystem, and a diverse network of investors, the state is home to some of the nation’s most active and founder-friendly VC firms. In this guide, we’ll introduce you to the top venture capital firms fueling North Carolina’s startup boom, highlight the state’s sector strengths and innovation hubs, and share actionable resources to help you connect with the right investors and accelerate your fundraising journey. Top VCs in North Carolina IDEA Fund Partners About: As one of the most active early-stage investment firms in the Southeast, we seek to serve the underserved through capital and guidance. Sweetspot check size: $ 750K Traction metrics requirements: $0 - 2 million of revenue Thesis: As one of the oldest and most active early-stage investment firms based in the Southeast, our investment philosophy has been honed from years of experience. We fund entrepreneurs who are applying technology and business model innovations to industries in the earliest stages of digital disruption with an emphasis on underserved places and stages. SJF Ventures About: We are experienced venture capital investors who have been at the forefront of impact investing since 1999. We are passionate about generating extraordinary results, creating positive changes, and partnering with visionaries who combine these two. Sweetspot check size: $ 5M Thesis: SJF Ventures invests in high-growth companies creating a healthier, smarter and cleaner future. Our mission is to catalyze the development of highly successful businesses driving lasting, positive changes. Salem Investment Partners About: Salem Investment Partners is an investment firm based in North Carolina with over $350 million under management. We specialize in mezzanine debt and equity investments in privately-held businesses with $10-$75 million in revenue. We invest across a wide range of industries primarily in the eastern half of the US. Charlotte Angel Fund About: We are a large group of experienced, committed investors in early stage companies in a wide range of industries. Charlotte Angel Fund (CAF) is one of North Carolina’s most active angel investor groups and represents Charlotte's largest source of capital for high aspiration startups. Good Growth Capital About: Early stage VC firm known for its exceptional expertise in finding, cultivating and assessing complex science and deep-tech start-ups. Pamlico Capital About: Pamlico Capital seeks equity and buyout investments in growing businesses that serve the communications, healthcare, services and software industries. We are committed to developing successful partnerships with management teams and entrepreneurs and helping companies reach their full potential. For more than thirty years, the Pamlico Capital team has generated consistently high returns, investing approximately $4 billion. Capitala Group About: Capitala Group is an asset management firm that has been providing private credit and private equity capital to lower- and middle-market businesses throughout North America for over twenty-five years. Since our inception in 1998, Capitala has invested over $2.2 billion into small businesses utilizing our flexible capital mandate which provides creative financing solutions to companies. We seek to partner with strong management teams to create value and support growth through strategic partnerships, operational expertise, and a shared vision for success. Falfurrias Capital Partners About: Falfurrias Management Partners is a Charlotte-based private equity investment firm that acquires or invests in lower, middle-market businesses. The firm was founded in 2006 by Hugh McColl, Jr., the former Chairman and CEO of Bank of America, and Marc Oken, the former CFO of Bank of America. Plexus Capital About: Plexus Capital invests across the United States in a variety of transaction types, including acquisitions, buyouts, recapitalizations, and growth capital. Since 2005, Plexus has raised over $2.2B* across seven committed funds and funded over $2.4B in over 189 companies. Plexus has built an institutional platform with a team of ~45 professionals based in Raleigh and Charlotte, NC. Our transaction experience has resulted in active working relationships with numerous third party due diligence providers, ensuring a smooth and efficient transaction process for management and the Company. We are value-add, long-term, patient investors who are committed to excellence in everything we do. RevTech Labs Foundation About: RevTech Labs Foundation is the bridge to growth and success for Founders. Maximizing the probability of success for high-potential startups is at the heart of everything we do. We leverage our broad networks of support to provide what we believe to be the most crucial needs for Founders when growing and scaling their startup - funding, mentorship, and visibility. Sweetspot check size: $ 20K The North Carolina Startup Ecosystem Record Funding and Venture Capital Growth From 2019 to 2023, the Charlotte region alone saw $1.5 billion raised across 261 venture capital deals, a dramatic increase from the minimal investment seen just a decade ago. This surge is mirrored across the state, with more startups successfully raising capital at all stages, from seed to late-stage growth. The region’s momentum is further highlighted by Charlotte’s leap into the top 10 of the Milken Institute’s Best-Performing Cities in 2024, and a record number of local companies making the Inc. 5000 list, including eight in the top 500—more than any year this century. Founders cite North Carolina’s strong business climate and high quality of life as key reasons for staying and building their companies locally. Sector Strengths North Carolina’s startup strengths are especially pronounced in software (SaaS), life sciences, fintech, and climate tech. The Research Triangle (Raleigh-Durham-Chapel Hill) is a national leader in biotech and health innovation, supported by world-class research universities and a robust talent pipeline. Charlotte, meanwhile, is emerging as a fintech powerhouse, leveraging its status as a major U.S. banking center. The state is also seeing rapid growth in climate tech, with more than 140 startups now active in this sector—up from 120 last year—spanning sub-sectors like sustainable agriculture, alternative proteins, clean energy, and water technology. The annual UNC Cleantech Summit and the updated North Carolina Climate Tech Market Map underscore the state’s leadership in this spac.. Research and University Impact UNC Charlotte’s record $92 million in research expenditures and its new Carnegie R1 status (top research institution) are fueling innovation and commercialization. The opening of the Wake Forest University School of Medicine and the development of The Pearl, a new life sciences innovation district, are further cementing the region’s reputation as a hub for health and biotech startups. Notable Cities and Innovation Hubs in North Carolina Raleigh-Durham (The Research Triangle) Home to three major research universities (Duke, UNC Chapel Hill, NC State), this region is a magnet for biotech, SaaS, and healthtech startups. The Triangle’s collaborative culture, access to top-tier talent, and strong investor presence make it a top destination for founders. Charlotte Charlotte’s startup ecosystem is thriving, with strengths in fintech, insurtech, and enterprise SaaS. The city’s financial sector roots, combined with a growing number of innovation districts and increased federal and private funding, are driving new company formation and scale-up success. Chapel Hill Chapel Hill, anchored by UNC, is a key player in the Triangle’s innovation ecosystem, particularly in healthtech, edtech, and university spinouts. The town’s proximity to both Durham and Raleigh allows founders to tap into a broad network of investors, mentors, and research resources. Wilmington and Beyond Wilmington is experiencing notable small business and tech growth, with key sectors like information technology and real estate projected to expand. The city’s job growth rate stands at 8.8% over the last five years, with small businesses accounting for two-thirds of net new jobs. Emerging Hubs Other cities such as Greensboro, Asheville, and Winston-Salem are also nurturing vibrant startup communities, often with a focus on health innovation, advanced manufacturing, and creative industries. Key Events for North Carolina Startup Founders North Carolina’s startup ecosystem thrives on a robust calendar of events, pitch competitions, and networking opportunities that connect founders, investors, and industry leaders. These gatherings are essential for building relationships, gaining exposure, and accessing resources that can accelerate your startup’s growth. Here are some of the most impactful events and opportunities for founders in 2025: CED Venture Connect CED Venture Connect is the Southeast’s premier capital summit, organized by the Council for Entrepreneurial Development. This multi-day event in Raleigh brings together high-growth tech and biotech companies, investors, and industry experts. Selected startups pitch live on multiple stages, gaining visibility and potential financial backing. The summit also features pre-conference networking and educational sessions, making it a must-attend for founders seeking capital and connections in North Carolina’s innovation economy. NC TECH State of Tech Startup Showcase The State of Tech Startup Showcase by NC TECH features five innovative North Carolina startups selected to demo and pitch to a virtual audience of business and technology leaders. This event is a unique opportunity for founders to present their ventures, receive feedback, and connect with potential investors and partners. Attendees can vote for their favorite startups, adding a competitive edge to the showcase. RevTech Labs Accelerator Demo Day RevTech Labs Accelerator in Charlotte is a leading program for fintech and insurtech startups. Its Demo Day is a high-profile event where participating startups pitch to a curated audience of investors, mentors, and corporate partners. The accelerator also offers a 12-week roadmap and extensive mentorship, making it a valuable resource for early-stage founders. NC IDEA Micro and Seed Grant Pitch Events NC IDEA is a cornerstone of North Carolina’s entrepreneurial support, offering Micro ($10K) and Seed ($50K) grants to early-stage, growth-oriented companies. The grant process includes pitch events where founders present their business models to a panel of judges. These events are not only funding opportunities but also excellent venues for networking and feedback. Duke Startup Showcase Hosted by Duke Innovation & Entrepreneurship, the Duke Startup Showcase is a flagship event featuring over 30 ventures and a main-stage pitch competition. The event draws more than 500 attendees from the Duke and broader Triangle community, offering founders a platform to pitch, network, and gain recognition. LAUNCH Conference LAUNCH is a dynamic event in Concord, NC, designed to empower startups with resources, mentorship, and networking. It features expert talks, hands-on workshops, and opportunities to connect with industry leaders—ideal for entrepreneurs looking to scale and build relationships. The Blueprint Tour Held in Charlotte, The Blueprint Tour offers actionable insights on branding, strategy, and growth. The event includes expert talks, networking sessions, and workshops, making it a valuable stop for founders seeking to refine their business approach and expand their network. Devopsdays Raleigh Devopsdays Raleigh is a key event for tech founders, offering hands-on insights into cloud, CI/CD, and continuous deployment. It’s a great opportunity to connect with Raleigh’s vibrant tech community and stay ahead of industry trends. Health Innovation Pitch Party This event, often held in Durham or Chapel Hill, brings together healthtech founders, investors, and industry professionals for a night of pitches, panel discussions, and networking. It’s a hotspot for those building in the life sciences and digital health sectors. Connect With Investors in North Carolina 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 North Carolina'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.

Imagine San Antonio as a hidden oasis for startups, where the cost of living is low, the talent pool is deep, and the community rallies behind every bold idea. If you’re building a startup in San Antonio, you’re in the right place- the city’s vibrant tech ecosystem, supportive community, and growing investor network are creating new opportunities for ambitious entrepreneurs. In this guide, we’ll introduce you to the top venture capital firms actively funding startups in San Antonio, along with practical insights on how to connect with investors, leverage local resources, and make the most of the city’s unique advantages. Top VCs in San Antonio Active Capital About: Active Capital is a venture firm focused on leading seed rounds for B2B SaaS companies outside of Silicon Valley. Sweetspot check size: $ 750K Traction metrics requirements: Pre-Seed: Product built and in market with users. Pre-revenue is ok. Seed: $20k MRR and growing swiftly each month (flexible) Thesis: Active Capital is a venture firm designed to lead seed rounds for B2B SaaS companies outside of Silicon Valley. Texas Next Capital About: Texas Next Capital is a private equity partnership of like-minded Texas leaders and investors dedicated to building the next generation. Thesis: Texas Next brings together decades of Texas business influence, know-how and values from our partners and advisors to help portfolio companies succeed in Texas and the global economy. Scaleworks About: Scaleworks coined the term Venture Equity — and manages three funds totaling $150M to invest on the venture equity thesis. Essentially that means Scaleworks invests for controlling stakes in B2B SaaS companies and operates them for high–growth. Thesis: Scaleworks invests in and operates SaaS companies. Geekdom Fund About: Geekdom Fund is a venture capital fund that invests in early stage tech startups led by the strongest founders. Our partners are in the trenches with our companies. From weekly calls to biannual deep dives, we are always looking for ways to help out our portfolio companies. Whether it be pitch meetings, talents referrals, or grant writings. Thesis: Though we focus on B2B SaaS we are also very interested in backing teams working on big ideas that take longer to come to market but have huge potential such as Robotics, Exoskeletons, Autonomous Machines, Blockchain and others. We’re normally writing $50k-$500k checks into Pre-seed and Seed tech startups. We hope to support you in your A round, as well. We rarely do Series A investments for new companies. Alamo Angels Alamo Angels is a fund + angel community of 135+ investors that invests and supports early-stage companies. Holt Ventures About: Holt Ventures is the venture capital firm that invests in the construction technology sector, infrastructure, and manufa cturing sectors. The San Antonio Startup Ecosystem San Antonio has seen a 20% surge in new tech startups, with the ecosystem attracting over $300 million in investments in the past year alone. This momentum is reflected in the city’s vibrant event calendar, with San Antonio Startup Week drawing record crowds and offering more than 90 sessions for founders and tech professionals. The average tech salary in the city has also jumped to $112,057, a 13.3% increase from the previous year, signaling strong demand for talent and a healthy job market for tech workers. Key Growth Sectors Cybersecurity: Bolstered by significant defense contracts and a strong military presence, San Antonio is often referred to as “Cyber City USA.” Biosciences and Healthcare Innovation: Startups like Hera Biotech are revolutionizing diagnostics and drug discovery, while the city’s established healthcare infrastructure supports ongoing innovation. Artificial Intelligence and Robotics: Companies such as Plus One Robotics and Darkhive are at the forefront of AI and robotics, attracting both talent and capital. PropTech and HealthTech: Real estate and healthcare technology startups are gaining traction, with platforms like Developmate and LASO Health streamlining processes and improving access to services. Notable Exits San Antonio’s startup scene has produced several notable exits and high-growth companies, including Xenex (germ-zapping robots), 6Connex (virtual event platforms), and Plus One Robotics. These success stories are fueling further interest from both local and national investors. Funding Volume and Capital Access The city’s small business landscape is projected to grow by 25% by 2025, supported by $26.8 million in American Rescue Plan Act funding and new zero-interest loan programs. However, there remains an annual unmet capital demand of $8.3 billion, especially in underserved communities, highlighting the ongoing need for improved access to funding and coordinated stakeholder support. Key Advantages of Building a Startup in San Antonio Affordable Cost of Living San Antonio offers a significantly lower cost of living compared to other major tech hubs like Austin, Dallas, or San Francisco. This affordability allows startups to stretch their runway further, attract top talent, and invest more in growth rather than overhead. Diverse and Growing Talent Pool With a 25% projected growth in software development roles through 2031 and a strong pipeline of graduates from local universities, San Antonio provides access to a skilled and diverse workforce. The city’s collaborative culture, exemplified by organizations like Geekdom and RealCo Accelerator, fosters mentorship and knowledge sharing. Supportive Community and Ecosystem San Antonio’s startup community is known for its collaborative spirit. Founders, investors, and established companies work together to build a supportive environment. Major events like San Antonio Startup Week, Tech Fuel pitch competitions, and ongoing workshops provide ample opportunities for networking, learning, and fundraising. Strategic Location and Economic Stability San Antonio’s central location in Texas, combined with its robust economic base (including military, healthcare, tourism, and education), provides stability and access to a wide range of customers and partners. The city’s population growth and economic resilience further enhance its appeal for startups looking to scale. Local Resources and Programs for San Antonio Founders San Antonio’s startup ecosystem boasts a robust network of accelerators, incubators, coworking spaces, and government-backed initiatives, all designed to support founders in launching, growing, and scaling their ventures. Here’s a closer look at the most impactful resources available to local entrepreneurs: Accelerators and Incubators Geekdom Geekdom is San Antonio’s flagship startup incubator and coworking space, located in the heart of downtown. It offers affordable workspace, mentorship, and a collaborative community for early-stage founders. Geekdom’s Pre-Accelerator and Community Fund programs provide seed funding, business development workshops, and access to a network of experienced mentors and investors. Geekdom has played a pivotal role in launching companies like Plus One Robotics and FloatMe. Founder Institute San Antonio The Founder Institute is a global pre-seed accelerator with a San Antonio chapter. It offers a structured program for idea-stage founders, connecting them with local and international mentors, and helping them build fundable companies. Coworking Spaces Geekdom (also an incubator, as above) Geekdom’s downtown campus is the city’s largest coworking space, offering flexible memberships, private offices, and a vibrant community of entrepreneurs, freelancers, and tech professionals. Venture X San Antonio Venture X provides modern coworking and private office solutions for startups and small businesses, with amenities like high-speed internet, meeting rooms, and networking events. The Impact Guild A coworking space focused on social impact, The Impact Guild offers workspace, community events, and resources for mission-driven entrepreneurs and nonprofits. Government-Backed Funding Initiatives State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI) Texas has received $472 million through the SSBCI, with $354.1 million allocated to the Loan Guarantee Program. This initiative is designed to increase access to capital for small businesses, especially those in underserved communities. San Antonio startups can leverage these funds for working capital, equipment, and expansion. City of San Antonio ARPA Small Business Grants The city has allocated $26.8 million from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) to support local small businesses through grants and a zero-interest loan program, in partnership with organizations like LiftFund. Additional Support Organizations and Programs Alamo Angels Alamo Angels is a network of accredited investors supporting early-stage companies in San Antonio through capital, mentorship, and networking opportunities. They host regular pitch events and educational workshops for founders. UTSA Small Business Development Center (SBDC) The SBDC at the University of Texas at San Antonio offers free business advising, training, and resources for startups and small businesses, helping with everything from business planning to accessing capital. San Antonio Economic Development Department The city’s Economic Development Department provides incentives, business support services, and connections to local resources for startups and growing companies. Connect With Investors in San Antonio 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 San Antonio'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.

London’s venture capital scene has grown into a powerhouse of innovation and investment, making it an ideal city for founders seeking funding. With its thriving tech and finance sectors, as well as a rich network of experienced investors, London offers a compelling ecosystem for startups across industries. From fintech and artificial intelligence to clean energy and health tech, London-based VCs are actively funding ventures that push boundaries and shape the future. This guide will provide insight into London’s vibrant VC landscape, what investors look for, and how founders can maximize their chances of securing funding in one of the world’s leading financial hubs. The London Venture Capital Landscape London stands out as Europe’s financial powerhouse and a top destination for venture capital, attracting startups from around the globe. In 2023, the city’s startup ecosystem raised approximately $12.9 billion across various sectors, underscoring London’s ability to maintain investment appeal amidst challenging economic conditions. A strong focus on high-growth areas like climate tech, AI, life sciences, and fintech primarily drives this steady influx of capital. Climate tech alone saw record-breaking investment, accounting for 29% of all VC funds in the UK, as both local and international VCs recognize the demand for sustainable solutions in areas like electric mobility and green energy infrastructure. London’s position as an international financial hub is crucial in its venture capital resilience. The city has become a magnet for global VC firms, with many, such as Andreessen Horowitz and Octopus Ventures, establishing a presence here. London’s regulatory environment, which often favors innovation and its rich talent pool, positions it as a fertile ground for startups aiming to expand their reach beyond the UK. The recent uptick in AI and green tech funding reflects the city’s commitment to supporting industries that address some of today’s most pressing challenges, from reducing emissions to developing cutting-edge machine learning technologies​. Why London is Ideal for Startup Fundraising London has solidified its position as a premier destination for startups aiming to raise capital, due to its unique advantages, including unmatched access to international markets, a highly skilled talent pool, and an innovation-friendly regulatory environment. As a global financial hub, London offers startups a gateway to markets across Europe and beyond, with more than 2,000 fintech companies alone benefiting from this strategic access. Many of the world’s largest tech firms, like Google and Microsoft, have established their European headquarters in the city, further boosting networking opportunities and creating a vibrant business ecosystem that attracts top-tier investors and talent alike. London also boasts a diverse talent pool, drawing professionals from around the globe due to its international appeal and cultural richness. The city is home to a high proportion of AI engineering talent, and it attracts a significant number of graduates from prestigious universities like Imperial College London, which contributes to its reputation as Europe’s tech capital. This continuous influx of talent provides startups with the skilled workforce necessary to scale effectively and to innovate across fields like fintech, climate tech, and AI. Additionally, London’s supportive infrastructure for startups extends to government-backed initiatives such as the Seed Enterprise Investment Scheme (SEIS) and the Enterprise Investment Scheme (EIS). These incentives encourage investments by offering tax reliefs to investors, making it more appealing to fund UK-based startups. London also hosts numerous accelerators and incubators, such as Seraphim Space, and Seedcamp, which offer early-stage support, mentorship, and resources to help startups accelerate growth and access funding more effectively. Challenges to Consider When Raising Venture Capital in London While London offers significant opportunities for venture capital, founders face unique challenges, including high competition, high operating costs, and navigating post-Brexit regulations. Recognizing these hurdles and strategizing to address them can help founders enhance their appeal to investors and succeed. 1. High Competition for Investment London’s reputation as a global tech and financial hub attracts a substantial volume of startups, increasing competition for funding. With thousands of tech firms and numerous high-growth startups, founders face stiff competition for limited VC attention. A practical approach to stand out includes emphasizing clear, scalable growth plans in popular sectors such as fintech, AI, and climate tech—fields that resonate strongly with London investors. Founders should also network effectively, leveraging London’s extensive startup events and co-working spaces to make connections with potential investors. 2. Rising Operational and Living Costs London’s high cost of living and operating expenses pose a significant challenge for early-stage companies, especially as inflation and rising energy costs continue to impact business expenses. Startups can mitigate these financial pressures by seeking funding through schemes like the Seed Enterprise Investment Scheme (SEIS) or Enterprise Investment Scheme (EIS), which attract investors with tax incentives. Additionally, many London-based accelerators, like Techstars and Seedcamp, provide resources and support that can help offset early-stage costs while offering mentorship and investor access. 3. Navigating Post-Brexit Regulatory Changes Brexit has introduced new complexities for UK startups, especially around regulatory compliance, data protection, and accessing EU markets. The loss of EU “passporting” rights, which previously allowed financial services firms to operate freely across the EU, means startups targeting European clients may need to establish a presence in the EU or adapt to different national regulations. Startups can overcome these barriers by diversifying their market strategy beyond Europe to regions like the Asia-Pacific and U.S. markets. Additionally, remaining agile and informed about UK-specific regulatory updates can aid in maintaining compliance and market competitiveness. Related Resource: The 12 Best VC Funds You Should Know About VC Firms in London Investing in Startups 2024 1. Seedcamp Focus and industry: The team at Seedcamp focuses on Software, Fintech, SaaS companies. Related Resource: FinTech Venture Capital Investors to Know Funding stage: Seedcamp focuses on pre-seed, seed, and series A investments. As put by the team at Seedcamp, “We invest early in world-class founders attacking large, global markets and solving real problems using technology. We are running our Investment Forum process entirely online and are proactively investing in European companies across pre-seed and seed who are building the breakout businesses of tomorrow.” While Seedcamp is located in London, they will invest in companies across the globe. 2. Index Ventures Focus and industry: The team at Index invests in companies across every sector. Funding stage: Index Ventures invests in stages from seed through growth. As put by the team at Index Ventures, “Other firms invest in deals, Index invests in people. A deal is transactional. Relationships endure, and ours are based on curiosity, thoughtfulness, and deep conviction.” The team at Index invests in companies across the globe, across every stage and sector. 3. Accel Partners Focus and industry: The team at Accel invests is agnostic in their industry focus. Funding stage: Accel invests in every stage from seed to growth stage. As put by their team, “Accel is a leading venture capital firm that invests in people and their companies from the earliest days through all phases of private company growth. Atlassian, Braintree, Cloudera, CrowdStrike, DJI, Dropbox, Dropcam, Etsy, Facebook, Flipkart, FreshWorks, Jet, Qualtrics, Slack, Spotify, Supercell, UiPath and Vox Media are among the companies the firm has backed over the past 35 years.” 4. Balderton Capital Focus and industry: Balderton Capital is agnostic in their industry focus. Funding stage: The team at Balderton invests in companies from seed to growth stage. As put by their team, “Balderton Capital is an early-stage venture firm that’s based on the principles of teamwork and an intense dedication to building companies of lasting value. They provide superior service to entrepreneurs through a unique, team-oriented partnership. This team approach not only makes it more fun for them to come to work everyday, but more importantly, it benefits their portfolio companies. Instead of competing for resources, they share ideas, contacts and resources.” 5. Ascension Focus and industry: The team at Ascension looks for, “a compelling business model capable of rolling out globally.” Funding stage: Ascension funds seed and series A companies. As put by their team, “Ascension is an early-stage VC built by exited entrepreneurs to back the next generation of tech and impact founders.” The team at Ascension primarily invests in companies that are building in the UK. 6. MMC Ventures Focus and industry: Fintech, Data-driven Health/Digital Health, Deep Tech, AI, Software, SaaS, Data Infrastructure. MMC Ventures is one of the most active early-stage tech investors in Europe. Focusing on enterprise AI, fintech, data-driven health, data infrastructure & cloud, we back founders from Series A and Seed stages. During the past two decades, we have formed a unique understanding of what it takes for a start-up to scale. We distinguish ourselves through our commitment of going deeper – on the technologies we invest in, and the partnerships we build with founders. Related Resource: 15 Venture Capital Firms Investing in VR Funding stage: The team at MCC primarily invests from Seed-stage through Series A “We conduct in-house research, providing us with a differentiated understanding of emerging technologies and sector dynamics to identify the areas and themes that have the potential to create the next multi-billion European success stories. Our portfolio spans enterprise AI, fintech, data-driven health, cloud and data infrastructure, with notable investments such as Snowplow, Copper, YuLife, Peak AI, Synthesia, Recycleye, MindsDB, Ably and Signal AI.” –MCC Ventures Learn more about MMC Ventures by checking out their Visible Connect Profile here → <h2=”Octopus Ventures”>7) Octopus Ventures Focus and industry: According to their website, “Our teams are sector experts focusing on six exciting and meaningful areas: B2B Software, Climate, Consumer, Deep Tech, Fintech and Health.” Funding stage: The team at Octopus invests from seed to series B. As put by their team, “We back founders who are changing the world for the better. We invest where we can make the greatest positive impact, getting behind businesses that put people, community and the environment first.” 7. LocalGlobe Focus and industry: LocalGlobe is agnostic in their industry focus. Funding stage: The team at LocalGlobe primarily focuses on seed stage investments. LocalGlobe is a venture capital firm that focuses on seed and impact investments. The team at LocalGlobe primarily focuses on companies located in the UK and Europe. 8. Connect Ventures Focus and industry: List the focus, industry, or types of companies this VC typically invests in. Funding stage: Give the funding stages this VC typically invests in. As put by their team, “We’ve been investing in pre-seed and seed stage product companies since 2012, from our home in London. We’re a partner-only, Europe-wide, low volume, high conviction investment team.” The team at Connect Ventures primarily focuses on companies located in the UK and Europe. 9. Downing Ventures Focus and industry: Downing Ventures is focused on healthcare businesses. Funding stage: Downing Ventures does not publicly state what stage companies they traditionally fund. As put by their team, “We offer investors the opportunity to invest in leading UK early-stage healthtech businesses. Your investment will support companies that develop evidence-based, tech-enabled clinical solutions that significantly improve access to high-quality care, improve clinical outcomes for patients, but also reduce the cost of delivery.” 10. Passion Capital Focus and industry: Passion Capital is focused on digital media/technology companies. Funding stage: Passion Capital is focused on early stage companies. As put by their team, “Passion Capital is a partnership of entrepreneurs and operators who are applying our experiences to helping founders and early-stage teams build great digital media/technology companies. We are committed to fostering an ecosystem of technology, collaboration and executional excellence in Europe, and we believe that the critical differentiator and key asset of a successful business is the passion and ability of its founders. We take pride in the caliber and success of all of our founders and teams including but nowhere near limited to GoCardless, Tray.io, Mendeley, Digital Shadows, urban, Adzuna, Smarkets, Ravelin, Nested, Tide, Spill, Marshmallow, Butternut Box,, PolyAI, Lendable and Monzo Bank.” 11. Notion Capital Focus and industry: As put by their team, “We focus on B2B SaaS, using data/ML and tech to disrupt an industry. Industry agnostic.” Funding stage: Notion Capital is focused on companies from seed to series B. As put by their team, “Notion Capital is a VC firm focused on European SaaS and Cloud. We’re here to support exceptional founders on their extraordinary journeys.” 12. Playfair Capital Focus and industry: Playfair Capital is sector agnostic. Funding stage: Playfair Capital focuses on pre-seed and seed stage investments. As put by the team at Playfair Capital, “We’ve been helping ambitious and exceptional entrepreneurs build brilliant technology businesses since 2013. We’ve backed the founders of more than 60 companies including Mapillary (acq. Facebook), CryptoFacilities (acq. Kraken), Omnipresent, Orca AI, Ravelin, sprout.ai, Thought Machine, Trouva and Vinehealth.” 13. Fuel Ventures Focus and industry: Fuel primarily invests in SaaS and marketplace companies. Funding stage: The team at Fuel is focused on early stage investments. As put by their team, “Fuel Ventures was founded by a successful entrepreneur who built his own company and scaled it to a £55m exit. We know how hard building fast growth companies is and use all our operational expertise and experienced network to help companies grow. We enjoy rolling our sleeves up and building companies alongside the founders and their teams.” 14. Beringea Focus and industry: The team at Beringea backs both B2B and B2C businesses. Funding stage: Primarily focused on Series A and Series B companies As put by the team at Beringea, “When looking at businesses, we primarily look for a good business with a good busienss model. We aren’t in the unicorn hunting business, but rather look for sound investments that will generate sound returns. We back both B2B and B2C businesses.” The team at Beringea invests in companies in both the US and UK, with slightly different offers for each location: 15. RTP Global Focus and industry: The team at RTP focuses on B2B and B2C Technology. According to their website, this includes "AI, B2B SaaS, DevOps, fintech, e-commerce and retail, health, tech, climate, and transport." Funding stage: RTP Global invests in companies ranging from seed to Series B. Learn more about RTP Global and check out their Visible Connect Profile below: 16. Kinetic Investments Focus and industry: The team at Kinetic Investments focuses on AI, Crypto, Ecommerce, Marketplace, Media, SaaS. Funding stage: Pre-Seed, Seed. "We predominantly invest in AI-driven B2C solutions for traditional business models within the digital landscape, i.e. SaaS, eCommerce, marketplaces, and AIaaS." 17. Concept Ventures About: Concept is the UKs dedicated pre-seed fund with a deep focus on people and entrepreneurial founding triats. They lead rounds of up to $2.5m, and work closely with teams through the first 12-18 months of their journeys - helping to lay the best foundations for the scaling to come. Focus and industry: Concept Ventures is a generalist, pre-seed fund in London dedicated to first-cheque investing in Europe. Funding stage: Concept only does initial cheques, but reserves capital for follow-on. Connect with Investors in London With Visible At Visible, we oftentimes 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. Related Resource: A Quick Overview on VC Fund Structure 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 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.

In an era where the effects of climate change are being felt more acutely every day, the need for bold, innovative solutions has never been greater. Climate tech startups are at the forefront of this revolution, creating technologies that address some of the world’s most pressing environmental challenges. These leading climate startups are not only pushing the boundaries of sustainable innovation but also reshaping industries by offering practical, scalable solutions to reduce carbon footprints and foster environmental resilience. From carbon capture technology to renewable energy storage and sustainable agriculture, these companies are addressing critical issues head-on. This article highlights 15 innovative climate tech companies that are making significant strides in combating climate change. Whether they are developing groundbreaking technologies for cleaner energy or devising new ways to sequester carbon, these startups represent the future of green innovation. Related Resource: Leveraging Innovation and Sustainability: A Guide for Clean Tech and Climate Tech Founders Emerging Climate Tech Trends Impacting Startups in 2024 As climate tech evolves, several trends are directly shaping the trajectory of climate tech companies and their ability to address environmental challenges. These trends reflect not just advancements in technology but also the shifting demands within the industry, influencing how startups scale, secure funding, and innovate. Below are the key trends influencing climate tech companies in 2024. Carbon Capture and Sequestration Technologies Carbon capture and sequestration (CCS) is rapidly becoming a core focus for many climate tech startups, particularly those aiming to reduce industrial carbon footprints. Startups working on direct air capture (DAC) technologies are gaining significant traction as industries and governments seek scalable solutions to meet global emissions reduction goals. As funding for CCS increases, companies within this space are seeing more opportunities for partnerships with heavy industries like oil and gas, cement, and steel. However, the cost of these technologies remains a challenge, pushing climate tech companies to innovate in ways that make CCS more affordable and efficient for widespread adoption. Long-Duration Energy Storage The transition to renewable energy is pushing climate tech companies to develop long-duration energy storage solutions that go beyond traditional battery technology. Energy storage startups are now at the forefront of enabling a renewable energy grid that can handle fluctuations in solar and wind energy. This trend is driving significant investment into companies creating vanadium redox flow batteries, iron-air batteries, and other next-gen storage solutions. For these startups, the ability to secure contracts with energy utilities and prove the scalability of their technology will be key to future success. The demand for reliable energy storage is expected to grow exponentially as more countries mandate higher percentages of renewable energy in their grids. Sustainable Agriculture and Food Tech Climate tech companies focused on sustainable agriculture are seeing rising interest from both investors and governments as the agriculture sector faces mounting pressure to reduce emissions. Startups developing technologies like vertical farming, precision agriculture, and agroforestry are helping traditional farms and food producers become more resilient to climate risks. For example, companies offering precision agriculture solutions can optimize water usage and reduce chemical inputs, making farming more sustainable. This trend is particularly relevant for climate tech startups targeting regions prone to droughts and extreme weather, as their solutions offer tangible ways to mitigate the effects of climate change on food production. AI-Driven Environmental Insights The integration of AI into climate tech is transforming how companies gather and leverage environmental data, offering them a competitive edge in developing smarter, more targeted solutions. Startups providing AI-driven platforms that analyze climate risks, predict environmental shifts, and optimize resource use are seeing increased demand from sectors like renewable energy, real estate, and agriculture. For climate tech companies, this trend offers a unique opportunity to position themselves as data-driven innovators, capable of helping businesses and governments adapt to changing environmental conditions. Companies specializing in geospatial AI are especially well-positioned to attract funding as they provide essential insights for industries looking to mitigate environmental risks. Key Challenges Facing Climate Tech Startups While the climate tech sector is thriving, climate tech startups face several significant challenges that can hinder growth and scalability. From securing adequate funding to navigating complex regulatory landscapes, these barriers are unique to companies striving to create sustainable solutions. Below are some of the climate startup challenges that founders need to consider as they work toward building impactful, scalable businesses. High Research and Development (R&D) Costs One of the primary barriers for climate tech companies is the high cost of research and development. Unlike many software startups that can iterate quickly and cost-effectively, climate tech solutions often require significant investment in hardware, materials, and testing facilities. Whether developing new carbon capture technologies or refining energy storage systems, climate startups need extensive capital to move from concept to commercialization. This financial hurdle can slow down progress, particularly for startups without access to substantial early-stage funding or grant support. Navigating Regulatory Challenges Regulatory hurdles are another critical challenge for climate tech startups. Governments and regulatory bodies are increasingly enacting policies aimed at reducing carbon emissions, but the path to compliance can be complex. Startups must navigate a patchwork of regulations, often varying by region and industry. For example, renewable energy companies may face permitting delays, while those in carbon capture or waste management might contend with strict environmental standards. This regulatory uncertainty can deter investors and slow down the deployment of new technologies, making it a significant barrier to success. Scaling Across Sectors Climate tech solutions often require cross-sector partnerships to scale effectively. A company developing energy storage technology, for example, may need to partner with both energy utilities and hardware manufacturers to bring its product to market. Likewise, startups focusing on sustainable agriculture might need collaborations with large-scale farming operations or governments to deploy their technologies at scale. Establishing these partnerships can be difficult for early-stage startups, especially those without a proven track record or established industry relationships. The need for coordination across sectors and industries is a major challenge that climate startups must overcome to ensure long-term success. Related resource: Top 10 VCs Fueling Innovation in Transportation Securing Sufficient Funding While investor interest in climate tech is growing, many climate startups still struggle to secure sufficient funding, particularly during the early stages. Venture capital firms often look for quick returns, but many climate tech solutions require long timelines before reaching commercialization. Startups in this space may also face competition from other sectors for investor attention. The need to demonstrate both environmental and financial impact adds another layer of complexity when raising capital. As a result, climate tech startups often need to explore alternative funding sources such as government grants, impact investors, and green bonds to bridge the gap. 15 Climate Tech Startups to Watch in 2024 1. CarbonCapture CarbonCapture stands out in the climate tech sector with its innovative approach to direct air capture (DAC) technology. The company's systems, which use molecular sieves and renewable energy sources, are designed for adaptability. These machines not only remove CO2 from the atmosphere but also capture clean water distilled from the air, a dual functionality that enhances both environmental and practical value. The potential impact of this technology is substantial, offering a scalable and efficient solution to reduce atmospheric CO2 levels. This approach is particularly promising in the fight against global warming and climate change. Year founded: 2019 Location: Pasadena, California Funding amount/type: The company has raised a total of $35 million over three funding rounds. Funding series: The most recent, a Series A round completed in September 2023. Major investors: Climate Pledge Fund, Ethos Family Office, Rio Tinto, Idealab Studio, Idealab X, and Marc Benioff’s TIME Ventures. 2. Astraea Astraea is a significant player in the climate tech sector, particularly with its innovative use of data analytics for environmental insights. The company has developed an AI platform for geospatial data, which includes products like EarthAI Site and EarthAI Enterprise. These tools offer vital insights using imagery, analytics, and dashboards, catering to a variety of industries such as real estate, renewable energy, conservation finance, and agriculture. Astraea's EarthAI platform is particularly notable for its ability to aid in understanding climate patterns and their impacts, leveraging AI and geospatial data to provide actionable insights​​. Year Founded: 2016 Location: Charlottesville, Virginia, USA​​ Funding Amount/Type: Astraea has raised a total of $16.5 million over four funding rounds​​. In a recent development, the company raised $6.5 million in Series A funding​​. Funding Series: The latest funding, completed on July 21, 2022, was a Series A round​​. Major Investors: The Series A funding was co-led by Aligned Climate Capital and Carbon Drawdown Collective, with other participants including CAV Angels, Tydall Investment Partners, and the University of Virginia Seed Fund​​. Astraea's role in climate tech is particularly exciting due to its innovative use of AI and satellite data to provide critical environmental insights. This approach is essential for addressing complex climate challenges, enabling better decision-making and strategy formulation in various sectors. The support and funding received from notable investors reflect confidence in Astraea's potential to make a meaningful impact in the field of climate technology. 3. CellCube CellCube, known for its innovative energy storage solutions, is making significant strides in the field of climate tech with its focus on vanadium redox flow batteries (VRFBs). As a leader in sustainable, future-proof, and durable energy storage infrastructure, CellCube has emerged as one of the first and largest developers, manufacturers, and sellers of VRFBs globally. Their modular CellCube batteries are designed to store large electricity capacities efficiently for 4 to 24 hours, meeting the highest safety standards and boasting a lifecycle of 20 to 30 years. This technology is crucial for enabling the storage of energy from intermittent renewable sources like solar and wind, thus facilitating their integration into the energy grid and enhancing the sustainability of energy systems​​​​. CellCube, initially known as Enerox, has evolved over the last ten years from a specialized product developer to a leading provider of comprehensive energy storage solutions. With more than 140 systems installed worldwide, they have established themselves as a key player in the industry​​​​. Year Founded: Not explicitly stated, but with 20 years of research and development, it suggests a founding date around 2002-2003​​. Location: Denver, Colorado, USA​​. Funding Amount/Type: The company arranged a non-brokered private placement financing for gross proceeds of CDN $10 million​​. Major Investors: Bushveld Minerals increased its investment in CellCube to 27.6%, as part of its energy storage business strategy​​​​. CellCube's significance in the climate tech field is highlighted by its role in enhancing renewable energy integration. Their VRFBs provide a reliable and scalable solution for energy storage, addressing one of the most significant challenges in the shift towards renewable energy sources. By enabling more efficient storage and use of renewable energy, CellCube contributes significantly to reducing reliance on fossil fuels and combating climate change. Their progress and the growing investor interest underscore the critical role of energy storage technologies in achieving a sustainable future. 4. Jackery Jackery, a leader in the field of portable solar power solutions, was founded in 2012 in California, USA, by a former Apple battery engineer. The company is recognized for its innovative approach in developing portable solar power generators, solar panels, and other related products. Jackery's mission is to provide green energy solutions that are accessible to everyone, everywhere, particularly focusing on outdoor and emergency use scenarios. Their products, known for their efficiency and accessibility, cater to the needs of those requiring mobile power sources, whether off-grid or during power outages​​​​. Year Founded: 2012 Location: Fremont, California, USA​​ Funding information isn’t given for Jackery Jackery's innovation in portable solar power solutions is particularly exciting for the field of climate tech due to its contribution to sustainable energy accessibility. By providing efficient, portable solar generators and panels, Jackery plays a crucial role in enhancing the adoption of renewable energy sources. This is especially important in remote or disaster-prone areas where traditional power sources are unavailable or unreliable. Jackery's commitment to developing green energy solutions aligns with global efforts to reduce carbon emissions and mitigate the impacts of climate change. Their growth and the success of their products in the market underscore the increasing demand for portable and sustainable energy solutions. 5. CarbonCure CarbonCure, a pioneer in carbon sequestration within the concrete industry, has garnered significant attention for its innovative approach to reducing carbon footprints. Founded in 2011 by Robert Niven and headquartered in Halifax, Nova Scotia, CarbonCure's technology revolves around the injection of captured carbon dioxide into concrete, where it is permanently stored. This process not only utilizes CO2 but also enhances the strength of the concrete, presenting a dual benefit​​. The implications of CarbonCure's technology for the construction industry are profound. As concrete is one of the most widely used materials in construction, its production is also one of the largest sources of CO2 emissions globally. By integrating CarbonCure's technology, the construction industry can significantly reduce its carbon footprint, contributing to the global efforts against climate change. This technology offers a practical and scalable solution for carbon sequestration, aligning with the industry's growing focus on sustainability. Year Founded: 2011 Location: Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada Funding Amount/Type: CarbonCure Technologies has raised a total of $97.36 million over 12 funding rounds, with the latest being a Series F round for $80 million on July 11, 2023​​​​​​. Major Investors: The company's investors include Sustainable Development Technology Canada, Innovacorp, GreenSoil Investments, Pangaea Ventures, Breakthrough Energy Ventures, Microsoft Climate Innovation Fund, BDC Capital, 2150, Mitsubishi Corporation, Carbon Direct, Taronga Ventures, and Amazon's Climate Pledge Fund​​. CarbonCure's technology is particularly exciting in the climate tech field due to its practical application in a widespread and traditionally high-emission industry. The ability to reduce the carbon footprint of concrete production and use while improving the material's quality represents a significant advancement in green construction practices. The company's successful funding rounds and the backing of major investors underscore the industry's recognition of the importance of sustainable solutions like CarbonCure's, indicating a promising future for this technology in global efforts to combat climate change. 6. Form Energy Form Energy, a Massachusetts-based technology company founded in 2017, is revolutionizing the field of climate tech with its advancements in long-duration energy storage systems. These systems are designed to enable a reliable and fully renewable electric grid year-round, addressing one of the major challenges in the transition to renewable energy. Form Energy's technology is crucial for maintaining grid stability and integrating renewable energy sources, as it allows for the storage and release of energy over extended periods, thus balancing supply and demand even when renewable sources are intermittent​​​​. Year Founded: 2017 Location: Boston, Massachusetts, US Funding Amount/Type: Form Energy has raised a significant amount of funding, with a $450 million Series E financing round announced in October 2022​​. This adds to their total funding, which had previously exceeded $350 million, reaching a valuation of $1.2 billion in mid-2021​​. Funding Series: The latest funding round was a Series E round​​. Major Investors: The Series E round was led by TPG’s global impact investing platform, TPG Rise, and included major investors such as GIC, Canada Pension Plan Investment Board (CPP Investments), ArcelorMittal, Bill Gates’ Breakthrough Energy Ventures, and others​​​​. Form Energy's long-duration energy storage technology is particularly exciting in the climate tech sector for its potential to transform how energy grids operate. By allowing for the storage of energy for days, rather than hours, this technology enables a more seamless integration of renewable energy sources like solar and wind, which are often variable in nature. This capability is crucial for reducing reliance on fossil fuels and achieving a more sustainable and resilient energy infrastructure. The company's focus on developing cost-effective and scalable energy storage solutions aligns with the growing global need for innovations that can support a fully renewable energy grid. The significant investment and support from major investors underscore the industry's recognition of the importance of long-duration energy storage and Form Energy's role in driving forward the transition to a cleaner, more sustainable energy future. 7. Klima Klima, a mobile application developed by Climate Labs GmbH, is revolutionizing the field of climate tech with its unique approach to personal carbon offsetting. Founded in 2019 by serial entrepreneurs Markus Gilles, Andreas Pursian-Ehrlich, and Jonas Brandau, Klima is headquartered in Berlin, Germany. The app's mission is to turn carbon neutrality into a mass movement, unleashing the power of individual action at scale. Klima allows users to measure, reduce, and offset their carbon footprint directly through the app, empowering individuals to contribute actively to climate change mitigation efforts​​. Year Founded: 2019 Location: Berlin, Germany Funding Amount/Type: Klima has raised a total of €15.8 million over three funding rounds, with the latest funding being raised on April 21, 2022, from a Series A round​​. The total funding amount is also reported as $18 million in another source, with a Series A round of $11 million raised on April 1, 2022​​. Funding Series: The latest funding round was a Series A round​​. Major Investors: Klima's investors include Christian Reber (co-founder and CEO of Pitch), Jens Begemann, Niklas Jansen (co-founder and managing director of Blinkist), e.ventures, HV Holtzbrinck Ventures, 468 Capital, HV Capital, Keen Venture Partners, Headline, and Blue Impact Ventures​​​​. Klima’s approach to climate change mitigation is particularly exciting in the field of climate tech because it emphasizes the impact of individual actions. By enabling users to track and offset their carbon footprint through everyday activities, Klima is making climate action accessible and actionable for the broader public. This approach not only raises awareness about personal environmental impacts but also provides a tangible way for individuals to contribute to global carbon reduction efforts. The startup's success in raising significant funding and attracting major investors reflects the growing interest in solutions that empower individuals to participate in climate action. Klima's innovative use of technology to facilitate personal carbon offsetting marks a significant step forward in engaging the public in climate change mitigation and underscores the potential for technology to play a transformative role in addressing environmental challenges. 8. Polarium Polarium, founded in 2014, is a Swedish company that has established itself as a key player in the lithium battery technology sector. The company focuses on providing smart lithium batteries designed to address power backup challenges in various sectors, including telecom, commercial, and industrial. Polarium's mission is to empower a sustainable world with innovative solutions for energy storage and energy optimization built on lithium-ion technology​​​​. Year Founded: 2014 Location: Sweden Funding Amount/Type: Polarium has raised a total of $273.9 million over 7 funding rounds​​. Another source reports the total funding as $250.19 million over 8 rounds​​. Funding Series: The latest funding was a Venture - Series Unknown round raised on September 4, 2023​​. Major Investors: The Swedish pension company Alecta, Formica Capital, Absolute Unlisted (part of the investment manager Coeli), AMF, Vargas, Roosgruppen, and Beijer Invest are among the key investors in Polarium​​. Polarium's innovations in lithium battery technology are significant for various reasons. First, these batteries offer a sustainable and efficient solution for energy storage and management, vital in sectors ranging from telecommunications to industrial applications. Second, Polarium's technology plays a critical role in the integration and optimization of renewable energy sources, contributing to the transition towards more sustainable energy systems. The startup is particularly exciting in the field of climate tech due to its focus on lithium-ion technology, which is crucial for the development of more efficient and sustainable energy storage solutions. This technology is essential for the scalability and effectiveness of renewable energy systems, as it allows for more efficient storage and distribution of energy generated from renewable sources. Polarium's success in raising significant funding and attracting major investors highlights the growing interest and demand for advanced energy storage solutions. Their contribution to the development of smart lithium battery technology positions them as a key innovator in the climate tech sector, driving forward the transition to a more sustainable and renewable energy future. 9. Infarm Infarm, a Berlin-based startup founded in 2013, is at the forefront of urban and vertical farming technologies. Their approach focuses on distributing "modular farms" to urban locations, promoting sustainable and local food production. Infarm's technology enables the growth of crops in a controlled, indoor environment, utilizing less space and resources compared to traditional farming methods. This innovative approach contributes to reducing the carbon footprint of food production and transportation by enabling local cultivation in urban settings​​​​. Year Founded: 2013 Location: Berlin, Germany Funding Amount/Type: Infarm has raised over $600 million in total funding. A significant part of this, $200 million, was raised in a Series D round led by the Qatar Investment Authority (QIA)​​​​. Funding Series: The latest funding round was a Series D round​​. Major Investors: The Qatar Investment Authority (QIA) is a notable investor, among others​​. Infarm’s urban farming and vertical farming technologies are particularly exciting in the climate tech field for several reasons. Firstly, their systems require significantly less water and land than conventional agriculture, making them a sustainable alternative for food production. Secondly, by localizing food production, they reduce the need for long-distance transportation, further decreasing the environmental impact. Lastly, the ability to control growing conditions leads to less waste and higher quality produce. The startup's innovative approach to farming addresses crucial environmental challenges, such as land use, water scarcity, and the carbon footprint of the agricultural sector. Infarm's success in attracting significant funding and major investors underscores the growing importance of sustainable food production solutions in the fight against climate change. Their technology represents a significant step forward in creating more sustainable, efficient, and localized food systems, making them a key player in the climate tech sector. 10. Northvolt Northvolt, a startup based in Stockholm, Sweden, was founded in 2015 and is spearheading innovations in sustainable battery production for electric vehicles. Their focus is on creating batteries with low-carbon manufacturing processes, contributing significantly to the field of climate tech. Year Founded: 2015 Location: Stockholm, Sweden Funding Amount/Type: Northvolt has secured investments totaling over $1 billion, including significant contributions from BMW Group, Volkswagen Group, Goldman Sachs, and Folksam. Funding Series: Major funding rounds include a $1.6 billion loan from a consortium and a $1.2 billion fundraising effort in 2023. Major Investors: Investors include BMW Group, Volkswagen Group, Goldman Sachs, and Folksam. Northvolt's role in sustainable battery production and commitment to low-carbon processes make it an exciting startup in the climate tech sector. Their innovative approach addresses critical challenges in the automotive industry, reducing the environmental impact of electric vehicle batteries. The significant funding and support from major investors underline the importance of Northvolt's mission in the global transition towards sustainable energy solutions. Their expansion into North America with a new battery plant in Canada further solidifies their position as a leader in the field. 11. Propagate Propagate, established in 2017, is revolutionizing the agricultural sector with its unique ecosystem that blends software, development, and financing. This innovative platform simplifies the process for farms to shift to agroforestry. By offering a comprehensive suite of services including agronomic insights, technical assistance, and financing options, Propagate ensures that farms can seamlessly integrate fruit, nut, and timber trees into their existing animal or crop farming systems. This approach effectively minimizes risks and supports a smoother transition. Year Founded: 2017 Location: Denver, CO Funding Amount/Type: Funding Series: Series A with a total of $11.5 million raised. Major Investors: The Nest, Agfunder, TELUS Pollinator Fund for Good, The Grantham Foundation, Techstars and Elemental Propagate's role in the climate tech field is significant, considering the growing need for sustainable agricultural practices. By focusing on agroforestry, they provide a viable solution to the challenges of food security, land degradation, and climate change, positioning themselves as a key player in the industry. The core of Propagate's mission is to facilitate the adoption of regenerative agriculture practices, particularly agroforestry. This method involves incorporating permanent crops into farming, leading to enhanced profitability for farms. More importantly, it plays a crucial role in climate stewardship. By adopting these practices, farms not only boost their economic viability but also contribute significantly to climate solutions, showcasing Propagate's pivotal role in promoting sustainable and environmentally friendly farming methods. 12. BeZero BeZero, founded in 2020 by Matthias Herbert and Tobias Frech in London, UK, is revolutionizing the carbon market with its carbon credit rating system. They've raised over $70 million, with a notable $50 million in a Series B round led by Quantum Energy Partners, and have attracted investments from EDF Group, Hitachi Ventures, and Intercontinental Exchange, among others​ Year Founded: 2020 Location: London, England, United Kingdom Funding Amount/Type: BeZero Carbon has raised more than $70 million to date. In a significant funding round, the company secured $50 million in a Series B round, marking it as one of the biggest raises in the UK climate tech sector for the year. Funding Series: The latest funding was a Series B round. Major Investors: The Series B funding round was led by US-based Quantum Energy Partners, with strategic investments from EDF Group through EDF Pulse Ventures, Hitachi Ventures, and Intercontinental Exchange (ICE). Other investors include Molten Ventures, Norrsken VC, Illuminate Financial, Qima, and Contrarian Ventures. BeZero aims to enhance transparency and efficiency in the Voluntary Carbon Market, crucial for achieving Net Zero targets. Their approach, supported by a team of experts, is significant in the climate tech sector, addressing the need for reliable information in the growing market, valued at approximately €50 billion by 2030​. 13. ChargerHelp! ChargerHelp!, founded in January 2020 by Kameale C. Terry and Evette Ellis in Los Angeles, California, is a dynamic startup in the electric vehicle (EV) industry. The company specializes in operations, maintenance, and workforce development for EV charging infrastructure. Year Founded: January 2020 Location: Los Angeles, California, United States Funding Amount/Type: ChargerHelp! has raised $17.5 million in Series A financing. This funding round was led by Blue Bear Capital, with significant investments from Aligned Climate Capital, Exelon Corporation, and other investors like Energy Impact Partners and non sibi ventures. Funding Series: The most recent funding was a Series A round. Major Investors: Major investors include Blue Bear Capital, Aligned Climate Capital, Exelon Corporation, Energy Impact Partners, and non sibi ventures. ChargerHelp! is not directly related to BeZero’s carbon credit rating system. However, in the broader context of climate tech, ChargerHelp! is contributing significantly by ensuring the reliability and efficiency of EV charging stations. Their focus is on improving the operational functionality of these stations, which is essential for the growing number of EV users and is pivotal in the transition to sustainable transportation. By addressing the technical and operational challenges of EV infrastructure, ChargerHelp! is helping to accelerate the adoption of electric vehicles, thereby reducing carbon emissions and advancing climate goals​​​​​​​​​​​​​​. 14. Sylvera Sylvera, established in 2020 by Samuel Gill and Dr. Allister Furey in London, UK, is a trailblazer in the climate tech industry. It specializes in providing a carbon offset intelligence platform, enhancing transparency and insights in the carbon market. Year Founded: 2020 Location: London, UK Funding Amount/Type: Sylvera has raised a total of $39.5 million. This includes a $32 million Series A round, led by Index Ventures and Insight Partners, with participation from Salesforce Ventures, LocalGlobe, and other angel investors. Funding Series: The latest funding was a Series A round. Major Investors: Key investors include Index Ventures, Insight Partners, Salesforce Ventures, LocalGlobe, and several angel investors. Sylvera's platform stands out in the climate tech field for its robust approach to analyzing carbon offset projects using machine learning and diverse data sources like satellite imagery. This enhances accountability and credibility in carbon offsetting, addressing the challenges of asymmetric information and transparency. Their contribution is vital in a market projected to be worth $100 billion by 2030, making Sylvera an essential player in achieving net-zero targets through improved carbon market practices​​​​​​​​​​​​​​. 15. ZeroAvia ZeroAvia, founded in 2017 by Valery Miftakhov, is a U.S.-based company focused on developing hydrogen-fueled aviation technology. They are at the forefront of reducing aviation's carbon footprint, which is pivotal for the climate tech field. Year Founded: 2017 Location: United States Funding Amount/Type: ZeroAvia has raised significant funding over the years, including $21.4 million in Series A financing in 2020, $24.3 million in a second round of Series A in 2021, $35 million in Series B financing also in 2021, and a substantial round in 2023 with Airbus as a lead investor. Funding Series: The company has completed Series A and B funding rounds. Major Investors: Notable investors include Breakthrough Energy Ventures, Ecosystem Integrity Fund, Horizons Ventures, Royal Dutch Shell, Amazon's Climate Pledge Fund, British Airways, United Airlines Ventures, Alaska Air Group, Airbus, and Neom Investment Fund. ZeroAvia's work in hydrogen-fueled aviation technology is transforming the industry. By developing powertrains for aircrafts that are zero-emission, they address a significant source of global carbon emissions. This breakthrough technology is not only crucial for the aviation industry's transition to sustainable practices but also represents a major advancement in the broader effort to combat climate change. The potential impact of ZeroAvia's technology in reducing aviation's carbon footprint makes them a particularly exciting and important player in the climate tech field​​​​​​​​​​. 10 Venture Capital Firms Investing in Climate Tech Startups Securing funding is a crucial step for any climate tech startup aiming to scale its operations and bring innovative solutions to market. With growing investor interest in sustainable technologies, more venture capital firms are focusing on climate tech companies that address critical environmental challenges. For startups, finding the right investors can make all the difference in gaining not just financial support but also strategic guidance and industry connections. Below is a list of 10 of the most active venture capital firms currently investing in climate tech, helping startups secure the resources they need to accelerate growth. Related resource: Guide to CleanTech and Climate Tech in 2024 + Top VCs Investing 1. Breakthrough Energy Ventures Backed by Bill Gates, Breakthrough Energy Ventures is one of the most influential players in climate tech, investing in early-stage companies focused on decarbonization. Their focus areas include energy storage, food and agriculture, and transportation. Location: Kirkland, Washington Investment Range: Seed to Series B 2. Lowercarbon Capital Lowercarbon Capital is a venture capital firm focused exclusively on startups that are reducing carbon emissions. They invest in a wide range of sectors including carbon capture, energy storage, and clean energy technologies. Location: San Francisco, California Investment Range: Seed to Growth 3. Energy Impact Partners (EIP) EIP partners with utilities and large energy consumers to invest in companies leading the transition to a clean energy future. Their portfolio includes startups working on grid modernization, electrification, and energy efficiency. Location: New York, New York Investment Range: Series A and beyond 4. Congruent Ventures Congruent Ventures is a leading VC firm supporting early-stage companies at the intersection of sustainability and technology. They focus on areas like clean energy, transportation, and resource efficiency. Location: San Francisco, California Investment Range: Seed to Series B 5. Fifth Wall Fifth Wall is a prominent investor in climate tech startups focused on sustainable real estate and infrastructure. They invest in companies addressing the decarbonization of the built environment, including energy efficiency, electrification, and carbon sequestration. Location: Los Angeles, California Investment Range: Seed to Series C 6. Prelude Ventures Prelude Ventures invests in early-stage climate tech startups working across various sectors, including energy, agriculture, and transportation. They have a long-term investment horizon and prioritize companies with breakthrough technologies. Location: San Francisco, California Investment Range: Seed to Series B 7. Chrysalix Venture Capital Chrysalix focuses on climate tech startups developing technologies for resource efficiency and industrial innovation. They work with companies that are bringing advanced materials, clean energy, and digitalization technologies to market. Location: Vancouver, Canada Investment Range: Series A to Growth 8. Obvious Ventures Obvious Ventures invests in startups that are building solutions for a healthier planet. They focus on climate tech sectors like clean energy, circular economy, and sustainable food systems.Location: San Francisco, CaliforniaInvestment Range: Seed to Series C, and Growth 9. Elemental Excelerator Elemental Excelerator is a global climate tech accelerator that invests in startups addressing energy, water, agriculture, and circular economy challenges. Their unique model combines investment with hands-on support to help companies scale. Location: Honolulu, Hawaii Investment Range: Seed to Series A 10. Schematic Ventures Schematic Ventures is a seed-stage venture capital firm investing in supply chain, logistics, and sustainability. Their climate tech investments focus on decarbonizing industrial processes and logistics through technology innovation. Location: San Francisco, California Investment Range: Seed Stage Find an Investor for Climate Tech with Visible Visible helps founders connect with investors using our connect investor database, find VCs specifically investing in Climate Tech here. Related resource: 10+ Founder Friendly Venture Capital Firms Investing in Startups Related resource: 11 Venture Capital Podcasts You Need to Check Out For Climate Tech startups, securing the right investors is critical as it goes beyond mere funding. These investors bring specialized expertise and strategic insights specific to the Climate 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 capital in Orlando has never been more exciting—or more competitive. As the city’s tech and innovation scene continues to surge, founders are discovering a wealth of venture capital firms, accelerators, and networking opportunities. In this guide, you’ll find the most active Orlando-based investors, accelerators, incubators, and the key events and founder groups that can open doors to funding, mentorship, and lasting connections. Top Orlando VCs LEAD Sports About: leAD Sports & Health Tech Partners sources, funds, and drives growth of early-stage sports & health tech startups globally. leAD works with groundbreaking solutions across the verticals of fan engagement, connected athletes, and health & well-being. Sweetspot check size: $ 750K Starter Studio About: We are Central Florida’s only 501(c)3 nonprofit organization focused on accelerating tech and tech-enabled startups. We support founders through the early-stages of a startup, from validating their idea, developing an MVP or Prototype, building the infrastructure of a sustainable business, through first customer / first revenue, to preparing to meet with investors for pre-seed funding. We provide three world-class accelerator programs that offer tech founders the opportunity to learn the skills, competencies and business disciplines that help them address and mitigate the top 20 reasons 2 out of 3 tech startups fail in their first five years. The programs also provide founders with highly skilled coaches and subject matter experts, as well as personal introductions and connections into the broader tech ecosystem. We prepare pre-seed-ready starters to attract outside funding while also investing in eligible pre-seed-stage accelerator graduates through our own evergreen fund. StarterStudio is supported by donors and local governments as a stimulus to economic development and high-wage jobs. Blackwood Holdings Group About: Blackwood Holdings Group LLC is a multinational venture capital Firm with deep managerial and technical expertise capable of accelerating companies to market leadership. Blackwood, sponsors management buy-outs of privately owned businesses and subsidiaries or divisions of public companies with revenues between $5 million and $50 million. We seek investments in companies with solid fundamentals and provide financial transaction expertise which empowers management. Penta Mezzanine Fund About: Penta Mezzanine Fund is a private investment firm providing $2 to $15 million customized growth capital solutions to profitable, lower-middle-market companies nationwide. We look to invest our funds in established companies operated by experienced and proven management teams with a history of building enterprise value. Penta Mezzanine Fund was created by former industry executives and experienced investors who place a high value on their relationships with management teams. Boxer Capital About: Boxer Capital Management is a full life cycle investment firm, committed to fundamental, research-based investing in specialized and precision medicine companies across private and public markets. Thesis: Innovation-focused investing in biotechnology companies that aim to drastically improve medicine. Orlando Health Ventures About: Orlando Health Ventures is advancing healthcare innovation by strategically investing in early stage companies and technologies that are transforming and disrupting the healthcare industry. Through a collaborative effort with our clinicians and leaders, Orlando Health Ventures sources, evaluates, and invests in innovative companies that demonstrate potential for a strong return on investment, high growth opportunity and that align with the mission of Orlando Health. APC Holdings About: APCH leads in alternative investments, specializing in private equity, private credit, infrastructure, and real estate. Our strategy integrates innovative financial approaches with a strong commitment to social impact, particularly empowering Minority Business Enterprises. Through strategic partnerships and demand-driven investments, we strive for strong returns while promoting sustainable growth and inclusivity in communities. Top Accelerators and Incubators in Orlando Orlando is home to a diverse range of accelerators and incubators, each offering unique programs, funding, and mentorship: StarterStudio: Offers multiple accelerator tracks (Idea, Build, Seed) and provides funding, mentorship, and education for tech startups. UCF Business Incubation Program: One of the largest university-affiliated incubators in the Southeast, supporting startups with office space, mentorship, and access to university resources. VentureScaleUp: Focuses on high-growth, scalable startups, providing mentorship, workshops, and investor connections. GuideWell Innovation: Specializes in healthtech, offering an 8-week accelerator with access to healthcare industry leaders and resources. Burnout Game Ventures: Supports game development startups with funding, mentorship, and publishing support. Goldstein Accelerator: Provides capital and mentorship for technology startups, with a focus on economic impact. Rally: The Social Enterprise Accelerator: Supports social impact startups with a 16-week program, mentorship, and access to funding. National Entrepreneur Center: Offers business support, training, and resources for entrepreneurs at all stages. Prospera: Focused on Hispanic entrepreneurs, providing business assistance, training, and access to capital. SBDC Central Florida: Offers free business consulting, training, and resources for small businesses and startups. For a full list of 27+ accelerators and incubators in Orlando, see Starter Story’s 2025 Guide. Key Events and Founder Groups in Orlando Orlando’s startup ecosystem is vibrant and collaborative, offering founders a wealth of opportunities to connect, learn, and grow. Whether you’re seeking funding, mentorship, or peer support, the city’s events, accelerators, and founder groups are essential resources for any entrepreneur looking to scale a business in Central Florida. Orlando Magic Venture Challenge: A high-profile pitch competition and showcase, the Orlando Magic Venture Challenge brings together early-stage startups, investors, and corporate partners. Winners receive funding, mentorship, and access to the Magic’s extensive business network. This event is a must for founders in sports, health, and entertainment tech. StarterStudio Demo Days: StarterStudio, one of Orlando’s leading accelerators, hosts regular Demo Days where founders pitch to investors, mentors, and the broader community. These events are ideal for networking and gaining exposure to local VCs and angel investors. UCF Business Incubation Program Showcases: The University of Central Florida’s incubator program regularly features pitch events and showcases, connecting founders with investors, advisors, and potential partners. Orlando WEB3 Tech and Beer: A community of Web3 tech and data enthusiasts that are passionate about driving change and challenging the status quo through innovation. Orlando Devs: A large community of software developers and tech professionals, offering meetups, hackathons, and online forums. 1 Million Cups Orlando: A weekly event where founders present their startups to a supportive audience and receive feedback and advice. Synapse Orlando: A major annual innovation summit featuring panels, workshops, and networking with Florida’s top tech leaders. Orlando Startup Weekend: A 54-hour event where founders, developers, and designers team up to launch new ventures. The Pride Chamber: Orlando’s LGBTQ+ chamber of commerce, supporting LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs with networking, advocacy, and business resources. NAWBO Orlando: The local chapter of the National Association of Women Business Owners, providing support, advocacy, and networking for women entrepreneurs. Resource: For a comprehensive list of national and global startup events, see RocketDevs’ 56 Must-Attend 2025 Startup Events. Connect With Investors in Orlando 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 Orlando'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.

About Airtree Ventures Airtree is a Sydney-based venture capital firm backing founders based in Australia and New Zealand building the iconic companies of tomorrow. The firm was founded in 2014 and is now deploying out of its 4th fund with $1.3 billion in assets under management. Their portfolio includes over 105+ portfolio companies and 250+ founders who have helped create over 17,000 jobs. Airtree’s portfolio includes the region’s breakout technology companies, such as Canva, Go1, Employment Hero, Pet Circle, Immutable, and Linktree. For this case study, we spoke to Dan Lombard who is the Data Lead at Airtree Ventures. Related article: Airtree Ventures already returned its first fund thanks to Canva while maintaining the majority of its stake Fragmented Systems and Processes Prior to Visible Prior to the integration of Visible, Airtree relied heavily on a fragmented system of spreadsheets to manage their portfolio of 105+ companies. Each quarter, four employees were tasked with managing the relationships with the points of contact at 15 to 20 portfolio companies through manual outreach and communications. This reliance on spreadsheets resulted in inefficiencies and potential data loss, as spreadsheets are prone to break when modified. Challenges With Data Accuracy and Scaling Manual Outreach to a Growing Portfolio Before Visible, 80% of Airtree’s portfolio monitoring problem was having clean data and scaling outreach to their portfolio companies. They faced two primary challenges with their former system: Operational Efficiency: Four team members spent significant time manually collecting data from over 100 companies every quarter. The Airtree team members were sending one-off email communications to each company and manually keeping track of who needed to be followed up with at each company which diverted resources from other critical projects they could be working on. Data Integrity and Scalability: Frequent changes to the data in spreadsheets resulted in errors in the sheets and data loss, which caused frustration as there was no way of understanding which changes were made to the sheet and when. This process made it difficult to scale portfolio monitoring operations as Airtree grew. Why Airtree Chose Visible as their Portfolio Monitoring Platform Airtree chose Visible for its robust, scalable, and user-friendly platform. Key factors influencing their choice included: Ease of Use and Customization: Visible's platform offered unparalleled customization and ease of use. Support and Development: Visible’s team actively listened to feedback, offered best practices, and continuously invested in their product, ensuring a partnership that catered to Airtree’s evolving needs. Automation and Integration: Visible excelled in automating portfolio monitoring and offered a frictionless experience for founders. Airtree leveraged the Visible API to seamlessly integrate data into their existing data warehouse system. Airtree’s historical data collection process, previously led by four Airtree team members, is now a streamlined process led only by Dan, who leverages Visible Requests to collect data from their portfolio of 105+ companies. Visible Requests empowers Dan to send customized link-based data requests to each company, automate the email reminder process, and easily keep track of where companies are in the reporting process. View an example Visible Request below. Onboarded to Visible within 24 Hours Visible provided Airtree with an efficient and supported onboarding. When asked about Airtree's onboarding with Visible Dan Lombard shared the following: Visible stood out by enabling a swift and seamless transition that was operational in less than 24 hours, a stark contrast to other providers who estimated a quarter for full implementation. This rapid integration was facilitated by a comprehensive onboarding template provided by Visible. Visible API & Airtree’s Data Infrastructure With the implementation of Visible, Airtree wanted to take a more sophisticated approach to the way they handle their portfolio data with the goal of driving more valuable insights for their team. The approach needed to be automated, integrate with other data sources, and have a singular view accessible for the whole team. This was not possible when their data lived in disparate systems, files, and spreadsheets. Dan Lombard has led the improvement of Airtree's data infrastructure. Now, data sources like Visible and Affinity are piped into Snowflake via recurring AWS Lambda jobs. Airtree leverages the Visible API daily. Dan mentioned that while Airtree collects data quarterly, a daily sync of the data is crucial because Airtree is always onboarding new companies, communicating with their founders, and uploading historical data. “The Visible API gives us this level of daily fidelity and only takes the AWS Lambda job 5 minutes to populate an entire data architecture.” - Dan Lombard, Data Lead at Airtree Ventures Once the data is in their database, Snowflake handles the ETL and entity matching. Airtree then has Streamlit sit on top of Snowflake to query data, provision access, and build out new insights. Advice for Other VC Firms Building Out Their Data Infrastructure Don’t overcomplicate things to start. It is easy to get caught up in the bells and whistles. Dan recommends a bias towards simplicity. Start small and use it as a stepping stone as you build things out. Conclusion Airtree’s adoption of Visible transformed their portfolio management by automating key processes and centralizing data, thus enabling more strategic decision-making and efficient operations. The case of Airtree is a testament to how the right technological partnerships can profoundly impact business efficiency and data management.

Maryland isn’t just the home of blue crabs and the Chesapeake Bay- it’s also a great place to launch and scale a startup. With billions in venture capital flowing through the state, a deep bench of tech talent, and direct access to federal agencies and world-class research institutions, Maryland founders are uniquely positioned to turn bold ideas into thriving businesses. But with so many funding options, accelerators, and networking events, where should you start? This guide will help you cut through the noise. You’ll discover Maryland’s top venture capital firms, insider tips for landing non-dilutive government grants, and the best events and accelerators to grow your network. Top VCs in Maryland New Markets Venture Partners About: New Markets Venture Partners is an early and growth stage venture capital firm that invests in and helps build disruptive education, information technology and business services companies. We are one of the leading education technology-focused venture firms in the U.S. Each of our partners has many decades of investment and education experience. We maintain proprietary relationships with states, districts, universities and other centers of innovation that allow us to provide exceptional value to our portfolio companies. We help our portfolio companies succeed by adding value before, during, and after the investment process. TDF Ventures About: TDF Ventures is a venture capital firm that targets seed and Series A investments in technology companies. Bonsal Capital About: Bonsal Capital is a private investment company investing in technology and technology enabled services in education, healthcare and cyber security solutions. Thesis: Bonsal Capital is a mission-driven partnership, and supporting education has been a core driver since our founding in 1999. With decades of experience in education as investors, practitioners, and volunteers, our principals have authentically grown a partnership that seeks founders and leaders who want to make a positive impact with a product and/or service, and who keep prospective scale and sustainability at the forefront. We support the growth of companies focused on tech-enabled services in education, and we have invested in and partnered with more than 20 such companies over the past two decades, providing human and financial capital, as well as other resources, that have made a positive impact on tens of millions of end users. We believe that, by fostering education, we can make the world a better place and feel good about our place in it. Sterling Venture Partners About: Sterling Partners is an investment management platform. We invest and manage across strategies and asset classes. We invest in companies in various stages of growth and across many industries, taking majority, minority, preferred equity, and even debt positions. We also invest in teams who bring their own experience and expertise and provide them with financial, strategic, and operational support. The people at Sterling believe in ideas and ideals, in people and partnerships that drive long-term success. TCP Venture Capital About: TCP Venture Capital is a Baltimore, Maryland-based early-stage technology focused venture capital firm. We partner with entrepreneurs to build great businesses. The Propel Baltimore Fund makes investments in early-stage technology companies willing to locate in Baltimore. The Fund addresses the critical need for more early-stage capital in Baltimore City, encourages more entrepreneurial activity in the City, creates more high-paying jobs, and helps to realize Baltimore City’s full potential as a destination for growing businesses. Conscious Venture Lab About: Conscious Venture Lab (CVL) is an early stage business accelerator with the goal of developing companies and leaders who embrace capitalism as a force for good in society. We work to help extraordinary entrepreneurs in their goal to build companies with societal purpose at their core; to give them all the tools and support they need to create engaged happy employees, loyal and joyful customers, deeply authentic partnerships, caring and safe communities and all manner of wealth for all their stakeholders. Thesis: Conscious Venture Lab is an immersive 4-month, curriculum and mentor driven accelerator, We build companies focused on the power of purpose. Camden Partners About: Founded in 1995, Camden Partners is a growth equity firm that helps the management teams of enterprise software and technology-enabled companies scale their businesses. Camden has invested in 85 companies across six growth-equity funds and is known for providing creative and flexible growth capital. By focusing on the same strategy for over 25 years, the firm’s partners leverage deep domain expertise and a network of operating executives to help management teams grow revenue and cash flow. With initial equity checks between $5 million and $15 million, Camden is a preferred partner for owner-operators who are dilution sensitive. Savano Capital Partners Savano Capital Partners is a late stage venture fund investing in technology-driven businesses. About: We focus on investment opportunities in high-growth companies within the software, communications, e-commerce, technology-enabled services, healthcare and clean tech/alternative energy sectors. We partner with leading companies by providing liquidity to individual shareholders, such as former executives, angel investors and founders. The fund was founded by life-long venture capitalists and entrepreneurs who aim to work collaboratively with company management, venture investors and individual shareholders. Early Light Ventures About: The Early Light Ventures Fund is designed from the ground up to deliver incredible outcomes for the best founders in B2B SAAS. ABS Capital About: Since 1990, ABS Capital Partners has established a strong track record investing in later-stage growth companies in the business services, health care, media & communications, and software sectors. Opportunities and challenges change when companies enter the high growth phase. As a recognized leader in later-stage investing, they understand this point in a company's lifecycle. Thesis: ABS Capital provides growth equity capital to B2B software and tech-enabled services businesses with strong technology and data underpinnings looking to scale with the right partners. Building businesses has been our passion for more than 30 years. Over that time, we have invested more than $2.5 billion in approximately 130 companies across eight funds. We bring our investing, operational, infrastructure, technology, and business development skills to amplify the success of growing businesses with data-driven business strategies, market research and analytics, and rolling up our sleeves to support talented management teams. Boulder Ventures About: Boulder Ventures was formed in 1995 to manage venture capital partnerships. They seek to realize superior returns from early-stage equity investment and active partnership with exceptional entrepreneurs to build market-leading technology companies. Boulder Ventures identifies exceptional entrepreneurs building market-leading technology companies and provides the funding, contacts and experience needed to succeed in today's highly competitive environment. Tapping Into Government Contracts and Non-Dilutive Funding Maryland is a national leader in winning federal research grants and government contracts, thanks to its proximity to Washington, D.C., a dense cluster of federal agencies, and a robust support ecosystem for startups. Here’s how founders can leverage these advantages: SBIR/STTR Grants The federal Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs provide non-dilutive funding (i.e., you don’t give up equity) to startups developing innovative technologies. Maryland amplifies these opportunities with state and local matching grants, technical assistance, and proposal labs. TEDCO SBIR/STTR Proposal Lab: TEDCO, Maryland’s leading innovation agency, offers a comprehensive SBIR/STTR Proposal Lab that helps founders write, review, and win federal grants. The lab has helped Maryland startups secure over $28 million in SBIR/STTR funding from agencies like NSF, NIH, NASA, and the Air Force. The program is especially supportive of women-owned, disadvantaged, and rural businesses. Montgomery County SBIR/STTR Matching Grant Program: If your startup is in Montgomery County and working in biotech, medicine, or life sciences, you may be eligible for a local matching grant—up to $25,000 for Phase I and $50,000 for Phase II awards, plus a “Phase 0” grant to help with application costs. Maryland State Matching Grants: The state budget includes $1.3 million for SBIR/STTR matching grants and $500,000 for technical assistance in 2025, helping bridge the funding gap between federal grant phases and commercialization. Maryland APEX Accelerator: Formerly known as PTAC, the Maryland APEX Accelerator provides free counseling, training, and bid-matching services to help startups compete for federal, state, and local contracts—including SBIR/STTR opportunities. OST Global Solutions SBIR/STTR Lab: In partnership with TEDCO and SBDC, OST runs a proposal lab that has helped Maryland companies win up to $305,000 in Phase I non-dilutive funding. Key Steps to Access SBIR/STTR and Government Contracts: Register your business in SAM.gov and other required federal databases. Identify relevant agencies (NSF, NIH, DoD, etc.) and open solicitations that match your technology. Leverage Maryland’s proposal labs and technical assistance to strengthen your application. Apply for state and local matching grants to maximize your non-dilutive funding. Use bid-matching and counseling services (like Maryland APEX Accelerator) to find and compete for government contracts. Tips for Startups in Health Tech, Cybersecurity, and Defense to Win Government Contracts 1. Understand the Procurement Landscape: Maryland’s proximity to federal agencies (NIH, FDA, DoD, NSA, NIST) gives startups a unique edge. Health tech, cybersecurity, and defense are priority sectors for both SBIR/STTR and direct government contracts. 2. Build Relationships and Network: Attend local government contracting events, SBIR/STTR workshops, and industry days. Maryland APEX Accelerator and TEDCO regularly host training and matchmaking events. 3. Get Certified and Registered: Register as a small business, women-owned, minority-owned, or veteran-owned business if eligible—these certifications can open set-aside contract opportunities. 4. Focus on Compliance and Security: For cybersecurity and defense, ensure your company meets federal security standards (such as NIST 800-171 or CMMC for DoD contracts). 5. Leverage Local Support: Use Maryland’s free counseling, proposal review, and bid-matching services to improve your proposals and find the right opportunities. 6. Start Small, Scale Up: Begin with smaller contracts or Phase I SBIR/STTR awards to build a track record, then pursue larger Phase II/III awards or direct procurement. 7. Highlight Maryland’s Ecosystem in Your Proposals: Federal reviewers value proximity to agencies, access to top research universities, and Maryland’s innovation infrastructure—emphasize these strengths in your applications. Additional Non-Dilutive Funding and Support Programs in Maryland TEDCO Seed Funds and Tech Commercialization Grants: Early-stage funding for tech startups. Maryland Industrial Partnerships (MIPS): Grants for university-industry R&D collaborations. Maryland Entrepreneur Hub: Centralized resource for all state and local funding programs. Maryland Small Business Development Financing Authority (MSBDFA): Financing for minority- and women-owned businesses. Networking and Community: Key Events and Resources for Maryland Founders Top Startup Events, Accelerators, and Meetups in Maryland Startup Grind Maryland: Startup Grind Maryland is one of the state’s most active entrepreneurial communities, hosting monthly events, fireside chats, and workshops that connect founders, investors, and mentors. Their annual Accelerator Demo Day, in partnership with BWTech and FounderTrac, is a must-attend for startups looking to pitch to investors and join a global network. Maryland Entrepreneur Hub Events: The Maryland Entrepreneur Hub curates a comprehensive calendar of local startup events, pitch competitions, workshops, and meetups across the state. This is a go-to resource for discovering both in-person and virtual opportunities to connect with the Maryland startup ecosystem. Accelerate Investor Conference (Arlington, VA): While technically in Virginia, this annual conference (November 5-6, 2025) is a major regional event for Maryland founders, attracting VCs, angel investors, and corporate partners from the entire DC-Maryland-Virginia (DMV) area. Local Meetups and Pitch Nights: Regular meetups, such as those organized by Startup Grind, TEDCO, and local coworking spaces, offer founders the chance to network informally, share experiences, and find collaborators. Many of these events are listed on the Maryland Entrepreneur Hub and Eventbrite. TEDCO’s Entrepreneur Expo: TEDCO, Maryland’s leading innovation agency, hosts an annual Entrepreneur Expo that brings together hundreds of founders, investors, and ecosystem partners for a day of networking, panels, and pitch competitions. Maryland APEX Accelerator Workshops: For founders interested in government contracting, the Maryland APEX Accelerator (formerly PTAC) offers free workshops and matchmaking events to help startups connect with procurement officers and other small businesses. How to Leverage These Events and Resources for Fundraising and Growth Build Investor Relationships Early: Attend pitch nights, demo days, and investor panels not just to pitch, but to start building relationships with VCs and angels. Investors often fund founders they know and trust, so regular presence at these events increases your visibility and credibility. Refine Your Pitch and Get Feedback: Use pitch competitions and accelerator demo days to practice and refine your pitch. The feedback from judges and peers is invaluable for improving your fundraising materials and approach. Expand Your Network: Meetups and workshops are ideal for finding co-founders, advisors, and early hires. Don’t just focus on investors—building a strong support network is key to long-term growth. Stay on Top of Trends and Opportunities: Conferences and expos feature panels on the latest industry trends, regulatory changes, and funding opportunities. Attending these sessions can help you spot new markets and adapt your strategy. Access Non-Dilutive Funding and Support: Many events, especially those run by TEDCO and Maryland APEX Accelerator, offer information on grants, government contracts, and other non-dilutive funding sources. Take advantage of these resources to diversify your funding strategy. Follow Up and Nurture Connections: After each event, promptly follow up with new contacts on LinkedIn or via email. Personalized follow-ups can turn a brief meeting into a lasting partnership or investment opportunity. Join Accelerator and Incubator Programs: Accelerators like the Maryland Startup Accelerator and sector-specific programs in Baltimore provide structured mentorship, access to investors, and a community of peers—all of which can accelerate your fundraising and growth. Connect With Investors in Maryland 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 Maryland'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.

Visible supports hundreds of investors around the world to streamline their portfolio monitoring. One of the most common questions we receive is — what metrics should I be collecting from my portfolio companies? Everyone from Emerging Managers writing their first checks to established VC firms ask this question because they want to make sure they're monitoring their portfolio companies in the most effective way possible. The Standard Metrics Value-Add Investors Should be Monitoring It’s important to know which metrics are the best to collect from portfolio companies so that investors can extract the maximum amount of insight from the least number of metrics. This streamlined approach is easiest for founders and allows investors to get what they need to provide better support to their companies, inform future investment decisions, and have good records in place for LP reporting or fundraising. Below we outline the six most common metrics investors collect from portfolio companies. 1) Revenue Definition: Money generated from normal business operations for the reporting period; also known as ‘net sales’. We recommend excluding ‘other revenue’ from secondary activities and excluding cash from fundraising. Revenue tells you how a company’s sales are performing. This metric is a key indicator for how a business is doing. It can be analyzed to understand if new marketing strategies are working, how a change in pricing might affect the demand for a good or service, and the pace of growth in a market. By asking for revenue from just ‘normal business operations’ you’re excluding money a company could also be making from secondary activities that are non-integral to their business. This helps keep the revenue data more precise, allows you to compare the metric more accurately across the portfolio, and will allow you to use it more accurately in other metric formulas such as Net Income. Visible helps over 400+ VCs streamline the way they collect data from companies with Requests. Check out a Request example below. 2) Cash Balance Definition: The amount of cash a company has in the bank at the end of a reporting period. Cash Balance is an important indicator of ‘life expectancy’. This metric is essential to track because it tells you about the financial stability and risk level of the company. There’s no bluffing with this Cash Balance metric. A company either has a healthy amount of cash in the bank at the end of its reporting or they don’t. Cash balance also gives you an idea of how soon a company will need to kick off its next round of financing. 3) Monthly Net Burn Definition: The rate at which a company uses money taking income into account. The monthly burn rate will be positive for companies that are not yet profitable and negative for companies that are considered profitable. Net burn is usually reported as monthly and calculated by subtracting a company’s ending cash balance from its starting cash balance and dividing that by the number of months for the period. We recommend collecting this metric from companies on a quarterly basis but still asking for the monthly rate — this helps rule out any one-off variability. Monthly Net Burn = (Starting cash balance – ending cash balance) / months Monthly Net Burn is an indicator of operational efficiency. This metric becomes even more relevant during market downturns when the focus shifts from growth at all costs to growth with operational efficiency. This is a good metric to benchmark and compare across all companies in your portfolio. You can also use this metric to calculate a key metric, Cash Runway. Related resource: Burn Rate: What It Is and How to Calculate It Related resource: How to Reduce Burn Rate: 8 Cost-Saving Strategies for Startups 4) Cash Runway Definition: Cash runway is the number of months a business can survive before it runs out of cash. It can be calculated as: Runway = Cash Balance / Monthly Net Burn Cash runway tells you when a company will run out of cash. This metric is essential because it determines when a company needs to kick off their next fundraising process, usually, it’s when they have 6-8 months of runway left. If you see one of your companies hit a cash runway of six months or less, you should be reaching out to see if they need support or guidance on their fundraising efforts. While Runway is definitely considered a key metric, you don’t need to ask your companies for it since it can be calculated easily with other data you should already have on hand (Cash Balance & Monthly Net Burn Rate). 5) Net Income Definition: Net income is a company’s total earnings (or profit) after all expenses have been subtracted. It is calculated by taking a company’s revenue and subtracting all expenses, including operational expenses, interest expenses, income taxes, and depreciation and amortization. Net Income = Revenue – Total Expenses Net Income is an indicator of profitability. If net income is positive, meaning revenue is greater than a company’s total expenses, it is considered profitable. This is a metric that startups should have readily available since it’s the ‘bottom line’ of an Income Statement, making it very easy to report. This metric can also be used in a formula to calculate Net Profit Margin, total expenses, and cash runway. 6) Total Headcount This is the total number of full-time equivalent employees excluding contractors. Contractors are excluded because of the variability of the nature of contract work — a contractor may only work a few hours a month or they could work 20 hours per week. This variability will cause back-and-forth clarification between you and your companies which wastes time. This metric gives you insight into company growth and operational changes. This metric is important to track because it’s a reflection of decisions made by the leadership team. If there’s an increase in headcount, the leadership is investing in future growth, on the other side, if there’s a major decrease in total headcount it could be because the leadership team has decided to reduce burn by letting people go or employees are churning. All are post-signs of operational changes worth paying attention to. Check out an Example Request in Visible. Suggested Qualitative Questions to Ask Your Companies While metrics are the best way to aggregate and compare insights across your portfolio, you may also be wondering which qualitative questions you should ask portfolio companies as well. Qualitative prompts can be a concise and valuable way for startups to share more narrative updates on company performance with their investors. Below we outline the two most common qualitative questions investors ask portfolio companies as well as suggested descriptions. 1) Recent Updates & Wins Description: Please use bullet points and share updates related to Sales, Product, Team, and Fundraising. This will be used for internal reporting and may also be shared with our Limited Partners. We suggest asking companies for bullet points on these four categories because it’s a focused way for investors to understand the narrative context behind a company’s metrics. With your companies’ permission, this narrative update can also serve as the foundation for your tear sheets for your LP reporting and your internal reporting. 2) Asks Description: How can we best support you this quarter? You can make your reporting processes more valuable for your portfolio companies by asking your companies if there are specific ways you can provide support to them in the next quarter. Once you have responses from your portfolio companies, you can take action on their requests and you’ll be able to extract support themes to inform the way you provide scalable portfolio support. Monitor Your Portfolio Companies Seamlessly With Visible It’s important to know which are the most important metrics to collect to ensure your portfolio data collection processes are streamlined and valuable both for you and your companies. In this article, we highlighted Revenue, Net Income, Cash Balance, Runway, Net Burn Rate, and Total Headcount as the top metrics to collect from all your portfolio companies. With Visible, its also easy to ask for any custom metric and assign it just to specific companies. Investors of all stages are using Visible to streamline their portfolio monitoring and reporting processes. Book some time with our team to learn how Visible can automate your portfolio monitoring processes. Visible for Investors is a founder-friendly portfolio monitoring and reporting platform used by over 400+ VCs.