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Fundraising
Top VCs in Kansas City Actively Investing in Startups
For startup founders in Kansas City, securing the right funding can be the key to turning a great idea into a thriving business. While coastal tech hubs often dominate the conversation around venture capital, Kansas City is quietly becoming a powerhouse for startup growth, with a strong network of investors eager to support innovative companies. Whether you’re building in FinTech, AgTech, HealthTech, SaaS, or the Animal Health Corridor, Kansas City offers a range of funding opportunities designed to help founders scale. The city’s startup ecosystem is strengthened by accelerators, incubators, and networking events that connect entrepreneurs with the right investors and resources to succeed. In this guide, we’ll highlight the top venture capital (VC) firms actively investing in Kansas City startups, along with key insights into local funding trends, networking opportunities, and essential resources for growing your business. Top VCs in Kansas City Five Elms Capital About: Five Elms Capital is a leading growth equity firm investing in bootstrapped B2B SaaS and technology companies outside of Silicon Valley. Sweetspot check size: $ 8M Traction metrics requirements: We invest $5-75 million in companies with $2-20 million in revenues. Thesis: Five Elms Capital is a global growth equity firm that invests in fast-growing B2B software businesses that users love. Five Elms provides capital and resources to help companies accelerate growth and further cement their role as industry leaders. Since firm inception in 2007, Five Elms has focused exclusively on software investing, building an unmatched network and deep domain expertise. Today with $700+ million AUM and a global team of over 50 investment professionals, Five Elms has invested in more than 40 software platforms globally. Sprint Accelerator About: Sprint Accelerator powered by Techstars, bringing together the future of mobile health. Thesis: The Sprint Accelerator, powered by Techstars, is a three-month, immersive, mentor-driven startup accelerator for ten companies that will be based in Kansas City. The focus is to help startups build the future of mobile health that changes the world one patient or consumer at a time. Whether enterprise, big data, or mobile, the future of mobile health begins with you and your team. The application of blockchain technology can help the healthcare sector. It helps in the safe storage and access of patient records. Cryptocurrencies and NFTs are based on blockchain technology. NFT trading is helping several traders to make a profit. Flyover Capital About: We are a team of technology entrepreneurs with operational experience. We lean on our own entrepreneurial journeys to inform our investment approach and our partnerships with portfolio companies and their founding teams – aiming to help them accelerate their timeline to success. Sweetspot check size: $ 1.25M Traction metrics requirements: Revenue: 100K-1.5M in ARR Revenue Generating B2B Focus Located Outside of CA, MA, NY Thesis: Partnering with the next generation of B2B technology success stories outside of the traditional tech hubs. Firebolt Ventures About: Firebolt Ventures is venture capital firm focused on all things software (enterprise b2b application/infrastructure layers, fintech, consumer). Fulcrum Global Capital About: Fulcrum Global Capital invests in disruptive companies that address the challenges facing global food systems as a result of explosive population growth and evolving demographics and markets. Thesis: Fulcrum Global Capital invests in companies disrupting agriculture & animal health. KCRise About: KCRise Fund is a venture capital firm focused on investing in early-stage technology companies with a strategic connection to the Kansas City region. Thesis: We invest primarily in pre-Seed, Seed, and Series A rounds. We are industry-agnostic investors with 48 portfolio companies in a variety of verticals with a particular focus on: Supply Chain/Logistics, Automotive, GovTech, FinTech, Benefits/HR and Digital Health. Prolog About: Prolog backs companies that help all of us enjoy healthy lives in a healthy world Nueterra Capital About: Nueterra Capital invests in early and growth-stage companies that are focused on changing the status quo. We equip innovative minds with the capital, resources, and expertise to catapult their growth, create wealth for our investors, and help drive transformation across a range of industries. Firebrand Ventures About: Firebrand Ventures combine a vast network and deep experience with startup hustle to invest in exceptional early stage software startups. iiM About: Innovation in Motion (iiM) is an early-stage investment firm that employs a disciplined approach to identifying, funding, and curating early-stage companies. We partner with companies that are making innovative changes in the agriculture, animal health, and human health sectors so we can make a difference in the world at large. Why Kansas Is an Emerging Startup Hub Kansas is rapidly gaining recognition as a center for startups, thanks to its dynamic growth in sectors like AgTech, HealthTech, Manufacturing, and SaaS. Cities such as Kansas City, Wichita, and Overland Park are at the forefront of this development, offering a combination of economic incentives and funding programs that make the state an attractive destination for entrepreneurs. AgTech and Animal Health Innovation The state's rich agricultural heritage has naturally led to advancements in AgTech and animal health. Initiatives like Plug and Play Topeka's accelerator programs are instrumental in fostering innovation in these fields. Their recent nine-month program features startups focusing on areas such as finance and insurance, AI on the farm, biostimulants, and IoT and sensing. This initiative has attracted companies from eight different countries and various U.S. states, underscoring Kansas's growing influence in AgTech. HealthTech and Manufacturing Growth Kansas's central location and skilled workforce have made it a hub for HealthTech and Manufacturing startups. The state's emphasis on innovation in healthcare and its strong manufacturing base provides a solid foundation for startups aiming to make significant impacts in these industries. Economic Incentives and Funding Programs Kansas City offers a range of funding programs and incentives designed to help startups grow, attract investment, and scale their operations. Whether you're seeking early-stage funding, tax credits, or grant opportunities, there are several resources available to support your business. Kansas City-Specific Incentives LaunchKC provides funding and resources to help high-growth tech startups establish themselves in Downtown Kansas City. The program offers grants, mentorship, and networking opportunities to fuel startup success. Digital Sandbox KC awards up to $20,000 in proof-of-concept funding to help early-stage startups accelerate their innovations and bring products to market. KCInvestEd connects local investors with promising startups, fostering capital flow within the region. Statewide & Regional Incentives Available to KC Startups The Kansas Angel Investor Tax Credit (KAITC) Program offers investors up to a 50% tax credit, encouraging investment in innovative startups. NetWork Kansas connects entrepreneurs with over 500 statewide partners, providing funding and business development resources. The Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program helps businesses secure financing for expansion, particularly in non-metro areas. Networking and Fundraising Events for Kansas Startups Participating in local events can significantly enhance your fundraising efforts by connecting you with investors, mentors, and fellow entrepreneurs. Notable events in Kansas include: Wichita Startup Week Scheduled for September 30 to October 4, Wichita Startup Week offers a series of panel discussions, sessions, and workshops designed to transform business ideas into reality. The event covers topics such as software, marketing, cybersecurity, and accounting, providing valuable insights for startups, small businesses, nonprofits, and entrepreneurs. Notably, Groover Labs offers free coworking during the week, fostering collaboration among participants. Global Entrepreneurship Week Kansas City (GEWKC) Taking place from November 17 to 21, 2025, GEWKC is part of a global movement celebrating entrepreneurship. The event features expert-led sessions aimed at helping entrepreneurs grow their knowledge and skills, networking opportunities with fellow entrepreneurs, investors, and industry leaders, and engaging activities and workshops. It's an excellent opportunity to connect and learn within Kansas City's entrepreneurial ecosystem. 1 Million Cups Kansas City 1 Million Cups is a weekly gathering of entrepreneurs and innovators that takes place in multiple locations throughout the country, including Kansas City. Each week, two local entrepreneurs give brief presentations about their businesses, followed by a Q&A session. Attendees have the opportunity to ask questions, provide feedback, and make connections. It’s a great way to learn about new businesses and meet people who are passionate about entrepreneurship. Pure Pitch Rally Held annually in October, Pure Pitch Rally brings together the Kansas City tech community by providing a platform for tech startups to pitch their ideas. Selected entrepreneurs have the opportunity to present their innovations to a panel of investors, CEOs, and VIPs, competing for funding and resources totaling up to $1 million. The event fosters connections between angel funders and the tech startup ecosystem, making it a significant opportunity for tech entrepreneurs in the region. InvestMidwest Venture Capital Forum InvestMidwest is a premier venture capital conference in the Midwest, connecting innovative startups with investors seeking high-growth opportunities. The event features pitches from selected startups across various sectors, including agriculture, health, and digital technology. It's an excellent platform for startups seeking Series A funding to showcase their innovations to potential investors. LaunchKC Grants Competition LaunchKC is an initiative that invests more than $1 million annually in high-growth startups. Through its grants competition, LaunchKC offers $50,000 in funding, plus access to a host of support services, to innovative, early-stage tech startups willing to relocate to Downtown Kansas City, Missouri. It's an excellent opportunity for startups looking to scale their businesses in a supportive environment. Connect With Investors in Kansas 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 Kansas'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.
founders
Fundraising
Minneapolis Startup Funding: 10 VC Firms Investing in Local Innovation
Minneapolis has rapidly emerged as a vibrant startup hub, significantly enhancing its position in the global startup ecosystem. In 2024, the city advanced five spots in the Global Ecosystem Index, reflecting its growing influence in the entrepreneurial landscape. The tech sector alone contributes approximately $28 billion to the local economy, accounting for nearly 10% of the workforce. This growth is supported by innovative startups such as Flywheel, bolstered by top-tier universities and initiatives like Launch Minnesota. In this guide, we will cover 10 venture capital firms funding Minneapolis startups, key fundraising strategies, and essential networking and local resources. The 10 Top Venture Capital Firms in Minneapolis Bread and Butter Ventures About: Bread and Butter Ventures is an early stage venture capital firm based in Minnesota, the Bread and Butter State, investing globally while leveraging our state and region’s unparalleled access to strong corporate connections, commercial opportunities, and industry expertise for the benefit of our founders. Sweetspot check size: $ 300K Thesis: Investing in amazing founders, focusing on several core sectors of the economy: food/ag tech, health tech and enterprise SaaS Atland Ventures About: Atland Ventures is a student-run venture capital firm that focuses on the field of financial services and venture capital. Sweetspot check size: $ 25K Traction metrics requirements: We will not invest in pre-product. Thesis: We invest in companies solving problems felt by Gen Z. Follow our generation's trends. Arthur Ventures About: Arthur Ventures began with a simple goal in mind–to seed and enable growth in their partner companies. They believe in the power of the growth cycle and the positive effect that well-managed businesses can have in society. Arthur works with companies to help solve crucial problems for customers in areas of information technology, life sciences, and clean technology. Sweetspot check size: $ 5M Thesis: We lead investments in high-growth B2B software companies located in every region across North America and Western Europe (aside from Silicon Valley). Norwest Equity Partners About: Norwest Equity Partners (NEP), a Norwest Capital strategy, champions good businesses with a goal of achieving enduring success. NEP seeks to invest in growing and profitable middle-market companies primarily across the business services, consumer products and services, and industrial growth sectors. We help create opportunities and long-term value by finding and fueling what’s working in successful companies to help build them into industry leaders. TinySeed About: TinySeed is the first startup accelerator in the ‘independent funding’ space – that space between bootstrapping and venture capital. While not strictly RBI, we are designed for SaaS founders who want to maintain control of their companies and who up until last year, would have bootstrapped due to the lack of relevant funding options. We have a simple investment philosophy – we make investments in companies with market traction and a demonstrated ability to drive innovation. Investing is more than a transaction for us – it’s a mutually beneficial relationship. Our initial investment size typically ranges from $500,000 to $5 million, and we’re active in all investment stages – from seed and early stage to growth – of companies operating within North America. Gopher Angels About: Gopher Angels is MN's top angel investing network. Founded in 2012, we've invested over $27M in 85 companies across Minnesota and the Midwest. Thesis: We fund Seed and Series A companies that have a substantial market opportunity, and the team and traction to demonstrate they can achieve it. We’re industry agnostic, and invest in healthcare and health IT, enterprise and SaaS, food and beverage, medical devices, agtech. Vensana Capital About: Vensana Capital is a venture capital and growth equity investment firm dedicated to partnering with entrepreneurs who seek to transform healthcare with breakthrough innovations in medical technology. Thesis: Vensana is actively investing in development and commercial stage companies across the medtech sector, including medical devices, diagnostics and data science, drug delivery, digital health, life science tools, and tech-enabled services. Groove Capital Sweetspot check size: $ 100K Thesis: Groove Capital is where entrepreneurs in Minnesota go to get their first institutional investment. We partner with great teams, who have demonstrated an ability to execute, with some evidence of a defensible advantage, in a market that is compelling. Capita3 About: Capita3 is building a global financing institution for investing in exceptional women leading game-changing companies. In addition to financial investment, Capita3 focuses on developing startup CEOs to maximize their growth and the company's exit potential. We’re leading the next generation of venture capital, and we’ll set a new standard for how venture financed startups grow and exit. Why Minneapolis is a Thriving Startup Ecosystem Minneapolis has solidified its position as a dynamic and thriving startup ecosystem, experiencing significant growth in recent years. The city's tech industry alone contributes approximately $28 billion to the local economy, accounting for nearly 10% of the workforce. Key Industries Attracting Investment Several sectors in Minneapolis are drawing substantial venture capital attention: Healthtech: Ranked 22nd globally, Minneapolis boasts 48 healthtech startups, reflecting its strength in healthcare innovation. Software & Data (SaaS): With 77 startups, the city holds the 46th position worldwide in this sector, underscoring its robust software development landscape. Hardware & IoT: Minneapolis ranks 58th globally, with 7 startups focusing on hardware and Internet of Things technologies. Success Stories of Scaled Startups The city's supportive environment has nurtured several startups that have successfully raised capital and expanded: Sezzle: A fintech company offering interest-free installment plans at online stores, Sezzle reported $56 million in Q2 revenue. Branch: A fintech company providing digital wallet solutions to help employees manage their finances. Niron Magnetics: Launched in 2014, Niron Magnetics received $17.5 million from the U.S. Department of Energy to scale up prototyping of its sustainable permanent magnets and has raised more than $100 million in total funding. How to Fundraise Successfully in Minneapolis Securing venture capital in Minneapolis involves leveraging the city's vibrant startup ecosystem and engaging with local resources tailored to support founders. Here's how to navigate the fundraising landscape effectively: Engage with Local Startup Events and Meetups Participating in Minneapolis's dynamic startup community can significantly enhance your fundraising efforts. Key events and groups include: Twin Cities Startup Week: An annual event that brings together entrepreneurs, investors, and industry leaders through workshops, pitch competitions, and networking sessions. Minnebar: One of the nation's largest and longest-running technology unconferences, offering a platform for knowledge sharing and networking among tech enthusiasts and entrepreneurs. Hackers and Founders Minneapolis: A meetup uniting the tech community in Minneapolis, drawing an equal split of hackers and founders to explore partnerships and build relationships. Leverage Local Resources and Support Programs Minneapolis offers various programs and organizations designed to assist startups: Launch Minnesota: A statewide initiative providing grants, tax credits, and educational opportunities to innovative startups. BETA MN: A nonprofit organization offering founders from top local startups the resources and relationships required to scale their businesses. University of Minnesota's Venture Center: Provides services to help establish new companies, working with researchers, entrepreneurs, investors, and advisors. Additional Considerations for Minneapolis Founders Understand Local Investment Trends: Research the specific industries and types of startups that Minneapolis investors are currently focusing on. Aligning your business model with these trends can increase your attractiveness to local VCs. Build Relationships with Local Mentors: Engage with experienced entrepreneurs and business leaders in the Minneapolis area who can provide guidance, introductions, and insights into the local funding landscape. Explore Regional Funding Opportunities: In addition to local VCs, consider regional angel investor networks and crowdfunding platforms that are active in the Minneapolis startup scene. Connect With Investors in Minneapolis 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 Minneapolis'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.
founders
Fundraising
Top VC Firms in Austin: A Founder's Guide to Fundraising 2025
Austin’s venture capital landscape has evolved into something extraordinary. No longer just an alternative to Silicon Valley, the city has firmly established itself as a powerhouse for startups and investors alike. In 2024 alone, Austin startups raised approximately $2.2 billion in venture funding, cementing its reputation as a major innovation hub. What sets Austin apart is its dynamic mix of homegrown funds and coastal investors, each contributing to the city’s growing ecosystem. With VC dollars flowing into sectors like AI, fintech, health tech, and sustainability, Austin offers founders both opportunity and competition. But beyond the capital, the city’s appeal lies in its business-friendly environment, deep talent pool, and culture of collaboration. For founders, navigating Austin’s VC landscape requires more than just a great idea—it demands strategy, connections, and an understanding of what makes this market unique. This guide will walk you through the top venture capital firms fueling Austin’s innovation and offer insights to help you secure funding in 2025. Top 10 VCs in Austin Next Coast Ventures About: Next Coast Ventures is an Austin-based venture capital firm founded by entrepreneurs, for entrepreneurs in ‘Next Coast’ markets Sweetspot check size: $ 5M Traction metrics requirements: Varies depending on stage of investment Thesis: Focused on capital efficient business located in Next Coast markets (underserved US-based markets outside of SF, Boston, NYC) 7BC Venture Capital About: 7BC Venture Capital is a venture fund focused on powering the digital economy through AI, FinTech, and software technologies. Sweetspot check size: $ 2M Traction metrics requirements: Min revenues of $100k MRR or your previous startup was venture-backed and made a min 5x cash on cash return for your previous Seed VCs. Thesis: Powering the digital economy through AI, FinTech, and software technologies. Our mission is to leverage the power of technology, capital, and our global network to back founders disrupting industries and solving problems through a more connected and automated global digital economy. Silverton Partners About: Silverton Partners is an early-stage venture capital firm that invests across software, tech enabled services, and CPG brands. NEXT VENTURES About: NEXT VENTŪRES is a venture capital firm that invests in the sports, fitness, nutrition, and wellness markets. Sweetspot check size: $ 1.50M Traction metrics requirements: Austin, TX, SF Thesis: NEXT VENTŪRES is a new venture capital firm designed to maximize growth opportunities in the exploding sports, fitness, nutrition and wellness markets. With established expertise and deep connections in these markets as well as proven financial track records, the NEXT VENTŪRES team is well positioned to create significant value for their investors and their portfolio companies. Space.VC About: SPACE.VC is a seed stage Venture Capital fund investing at the intersection of space, software, climate, deep tech, and beyond. We believe Space is a generational opportunity to use technology to make life on Earth more connected, intelligent, and viable. We are Founders supporting Founders - through customer and partnership introductions, executive recruiting, and everything else our Founders are faced with. Palm Venture Studios Sweetspot check size: $ 1.50M Traction metrics requirements: We primarily invest in companies that have product in-market and generating revenue. Thesis: We collaborate with founders and investors to revitalize promising early-stage startups that have not yet reached their potential. We can deploy capital discreetly and within days—then incubate teams in our network of studios for hands-on support. LiveOak Venture Partners About: LiveOak Venture Partners is a venture capital firm making early-stage investments in technology and technology-driven services. Sweetspot check size: $ 2M True Wealth Ventures About: We see value in the impact of women. True Wealth Ventures invests in smart female entrepreneurs, from health innovators to sustainable solution pioneers. Women-led companies have proven they deliver higher returns. It’s time to invest in new perspectives. Sweetspot check size: $ 750K Traction metrics requirements: Proof of product/solution efficacy (can be a prototype) // Proof of health or environmental outcomes Thesis: Women-led companies improving either human health or environmental health Seaside Ventures Sweetspot check size: $ 150K Thesis: We believe that society is deteriorating on the individual level due to declines in physical and mental health. We're interested in products and services that help people extract the fullest potential out of their lives by being as mentally and physically healthy as possible, enabling everyone to maximize their happiness, energy, productivity, creativity, etc. TPG Capital About: TPG Capital is a global multi-strategy asset manager headquartered in California that invests in private equity, credit, real estate, and hedge fund strategies. Thesis: Our focus on sectors is at the core of our investment strategy. Our investment teams are principally organized around sectors—which means that investors who focus on diverse products and strategies across the firm work together to build deep insight and relationship networks in our key sectors. Sharing ideas and intellectual capital across the firm gives us distinctive insight, and this cross-platform leverage enables us to bring the right capital solutions to compelling opportunities. Austin's Startup Ecosystem in 2025 Austin's dynamic startup ecosystem in 2025 is characterized by robust funding growth, a diverse range of thriving industry sectors, and strategic advantages that make it an attractive destination for entrepreneurs and investors. Funding Volume and Deal Flow Austin's venture capital landscape has experienced notable fluctuations in recent years. In 2023, startups in the city raised over $3.3 billion in venture capital investments. However, in the fourth quarter of 2024, Austin startups secured $804.5 million in venture capital, marking an almost 29% decrease from the same quarter in 2023. Despite this quarterly decline, the annual total for 2024 remained robust, with startups raising approximately $4.5 billion across 487 deals, reflecting a 7% increase in deal count from 2023. Comparison with Major Tech Hubs While Austin's total venture capital investment is smaller compared to major tech hubs like San Francisco and New York, the city has demonstrated resilience and growth. In 2024, Austin was ranked as the 27th global startup ecosystem. This ranking underscores Austin's increasing prominence in the national tech landscape. Key Industry Sectors and Trends Enterprise Software Much of Austin's tech industry is dedicated to enterprise solutions, focusing on SaaS platforms and business process automation. Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning The city has seen a surge in AI and ML startups, developing applications ranging from predictive analytics to natural language processing. Fintech Austin's fintech sector is expanding, with companies innovating in digital payments, blockchain technologies, and financial services platforms. Health Tech Health tech is a growing field in Austin, with startups focusing on telemedicine, health data analytics, and medical devices. Clean Energy and Sustainability Reflecting broader environmental trends, Austin hosts several startups dedicated to renewable energy solutions, sustainable agriculture, and eco-friendly technologies. Major Tech Relocations Austin has attracted several major corporations in recent years, bolstering its tech ecosystem: Tesla: Established a significant presence with its Gigafactory, contributing to job creation and industry growth. Oracle: Relocated its headquarters to Austin, enhancing the city's profile as a tech hub. Apple: Expanded its operations with a new campus, further solidifying Austin's status in the tech industry. PEAK6: Announced the relocation of its global headquarters to Austin in January, 2025. These moves have increased employment opportunities and attracted a network of suppliers, service providers, and supporting businesses, thereby enriching the local startup ecosystem. Why Austin Stands Out as a Startup Hub Talent Pool Dynamics Technical Talent Austin boasts a growing tech workforce supported by institutions like the University of Texas at Austin, which graduates many tech professionals annually. Specialized Expertise The city is developing strengths in semiconductor design, AI and machine learning, enterprise software, and emerging technologies like blockchain. Cost of Living Advantages Austin offers a more affordable cost of living compared to traditional tech hubs: Housing Costs: Median home prices and rental rates in Austin are generally lower than those in cities like San Francisco and New York. Commercial Space: The cost of commercial real estate in Austin is more competitive, making it attractive for startups and expanding companies. Tax Advantages No State Income Tax: Texas imposes neither corporate nor personal income taxes, allowing businesses and individuals to retain more of their earnings. Sales Tax Exemptions: The state offers exemptions on sales tax for manufacturing machinery, equipment, and R&D-related materials, fostering innovation and reducing operational costs. Incentive Programs: Texas provides various incentives, such as the Texas Enterprise Zone Program, which offers state sales and use tax refunds to encourage private investment and job creation in economically distressed areas. Business Environment Capital Factory: Beyond its accelerator program, it offers mentorship, coworking spaces, and access to a vast network of investors and entrepreneurs. Techstars Austin: Provides mentorship-driven accelerator programs to help startups succeed. Austin Technology Incubator: Focuses on deep technology startups, offering resources and guidance to foster growth. Angel Investor Networks: Austin's investment community is active and supportive, with networks of investors focusing on aspiring startups and entrepreneurs. Coworking Spaces: The city boasts a variety of coworking environments designed to foster collaboration and innovation. Firmspace: Offers private, high-end office spaces tailored for professionals. ATX Factory: Combines workspaces with amenities like nap nooks and meditation areas to enhance productivity. Quality of Life Factors These elements make Austin an attractive destination for tech professionals seeking a supportive community and a balanced lifestyle. Growing Tech Communities- Austin's tech scene is continually expanding, supported by a variety of events and organizations that bring together professionals from diverse sectors. Notable events include: Austin Tech Week: A five-day celebration uniting entrepreneurs, tech leaders, and enthusiasts to connect, learn, and enhance business impact. Austin AI Week: Scheduled for February 25–27, 2025, this event offers interactive AI educational training, where innovation meets opportunity. Civo Navigate Local Austin 2025: On May 14, 2025, this one-day event will showcase the latest cloud-native trends and expert insights. Active Meetup Culture- The city's active meetup culture provides numerous opportunities for professionals to engage, share knowledge, and collaborate. Events such as Women in Tech Austin - OutGeekWomen, offer platforms for mid- to senior-level tech professionals to connect and explore career opportunities. Strong Networking Opportunities- Austin hosts a variety of conferences and festivals that facilitate networking among tech professionals: SXSW Conference & Festivals: SXSW offers a convergence of tech, film, and music industries, providing ample networking opportunities. Austin Forum on Technology & Society: The forum will present insights into emerging and disruptive technologies expected to have significant impact in 2025 and beyond. Family-Friendly Environment- Austin is renowned for its family-friendly atmosphere, offering a range of activities and amenities: Educational Attractions: The city features numerous parks and kid-focused museums, providing educational and recreational opportunities for children. Outdoor Recreation: With its many parks and Lady Bird Lake, Austin offers endless outdoor adventures for families. Connect With Investors in Austin 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 Austin'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.
founders
Fundraising
Top VCs in Florida: The Best Venture Capital Firms Fueling Startups in the Sunshine State
Florida has solidified its position as a burgeoning hub for startups, attracting entrepreneurs and investors alike. In the first half of 2024, Florida-based companies secured over $2.1 billion across 332 deals, indicating a robust and active venture capital landscape. This article aims to provide founders with a comprehensive guide to the top 10 venture capital firms actively investing in Florida's startups, offering valuable insights to aid in your fundraising journey. Why Florida Has Become a Startup Hotspot Florida's transformation into a thriving startup ecosystem can be attributed to several key factors: Business-Friendly Policies Florida's favorable tax environment, notably the absence of state income tax, makes it an attractive destination for entrepreneurs. This policy not only enhances personal income but also allows businesses to reinvest more capital into growth and innovation. Additionally, the state's regulatory framework is designed to be business-friendly, reducing bureaucratic hurdles for startups. For instance, the Florida Small Business Development Center Network offers resources and support to help new businesses navigate regulatory requirements efficiently. Growing Venture Capital Scene Cities like Miami, Tampa, and Orlando have witnessed a surge in venture capital activity. Miami, in particular, climbed seven places to rank 16th in the 2024 Global Startup Ecosystem Report, reflecting its enhanced global standing. Tampa Bay's tech ecosystem has also expanded, with significant investments fostering companies across technology, healthcare, and public safety sectors. Influx of Tech Talent The migration of tech professionals from high-tax states like California and New York to Florida has infused the local startup scene with fresh talent and ideas. This trend accelerated during the pandemic, as remote work allowed professionals to relocate without compromising career opportunities. The state's quality of life, combined with its economic advantages, continues to draw skilled individuals seeking a conducive environment for innovation. Enhanced Quality of Life and Remote Work Trends Florida's warm climate, affordable cost of living, and diverse cultural offerings contribute to an appealing lifestyle for entrepreneurs and employees alike. The rise of remote work has further enabled individuals to choose locations based on lifestyle preferences without sacrificing professional aspirations. This shift has positioned Florida as an ideal locale for those seeking a balance between work and personal life. Government and Institutional Support The state government actively supports small businesses and startups through various initiatives. In January 2025, FloridaCommerce announced an additional $167 million available for small businesses through the State Small Business Credit Initiative 2.0 (SSBCI). Since January 2023, Florida has provided more than $202 million in loans and venture capital investments to 149 small businesses, stimulating over $769 million in private capital and creating or retaining nearly 4,967 jobs for Floridians. These combined factors create a fertile environment for startups, making Florida a compelling destination for founders and investors aiming to capitalize on the state's dynamic and supportive ecosystem. Top 15 Venture Capital Firms in Florida Florida's venture capital landscape has expanded significantly, with numerous firms actively investing in the state's burgeoning startup ecosystem. Here are ten notable venture capital firms fueling innovation across Florida: Florida Funders About: Florida Funders is a hybrid of a venture capital fund and accredited investor crowdfunding platform. Sweetspot check size: $ 500K Traction metrics requirements: $250K ARR to $2M ARR is our sweet spot. Thesis: Early Stage Tech (Seed to Series A). Technology focused, but industry agnostic with primary interest in SaaS B2B business, AI, Cybsecurity, Healthtech, Fintech, Marketplaces Fuel Venture Capital About: Fuel Venture Capital is committed to propelling groundbreaking ideas into world-changing companies and democratizing access to the creative economy to shape the future of society. The firm's "founder focused, investor driven" approach is led by a core team with more than 80 years of combined experience in investment banking, wealth management, executive leadership and entrepreneurship. The fund boasts a portfolio of more than 33 companies based around the globe across numerous sectors, bringing positive impact to virtually all corners of our modern economy. Calm Company Fund Sweetspot check size: $ 250K Traction metrics requirements: Post-product, post-revenue Thesis: As a general rule we invest in companies after they have launched and have some paying customers, though within that we can invest quite early. We invest using a financing structure that we created called the Shared Earnings Agreement. This allow us to back founders who want to build sustainable profit-focused businesses without the pressure of having to continually raise capital or sell. We bring more than just a check and have a big focus on Mentorship & Community. Krillion Ventures About: Krillion Ventures is a venture capital fund that provides Seed and Series A stage funding to tech-enabled companies based in Miami, New York City and San Francisco. We provide up to $1M in investment capital per round to outstanding entrepreneurial teams. And then we back these companies with support in strategy, marketing and additional capital raising. Ocean Azul Partners About: We are an early stage venture capital firm passionate about helping entrepreneurs bring innovative technology solutions to market. We’re operators who are determined to use our successes and lessons learned to provide significant value to the teams with which we work. We are proud to support entrepreneurs building unique solutions that will shape the futures of their industries. TheVentureCity About: Funding mission-driven entrepreneurs worldwide Sweetspot check size: $ 2M Traction metrics requirements: None. Thesis: We’re looking for mission-driven founders with global mindsets that are building software-enabled companies with potential to scale globally venVelo About: venVelo is a venture fund and business accelerator focused on early-stage opportunities. venVelo was formally launched in 2012 and quickly established itself as one of the most active venture funds in central Florida. In addition to its investments, venVelo board members have been frequent speakers, panelists, and venture competition judges around the state. venVelo also has donated money to a variety of firms working to develop the central Florida entrepreneurial ecosystem. LAB Ventures About: LAB Ventures is an early-stage PropTech investor based out of The LAB Miami, Miami's original coworking community and events space located in the Wynwood Art District. Our team of entrepreneurs is well versed in scaling early-stage ventures, and found that we best support startups building technology solutions for the real estate and construction industries. Through our rolling fund, we invest with industry insiders with whom we can match our portfolio companies for mutual benefit. In tangent, our venture studio provides more intensive support; having built companies like Expetitle, beycome, and Lumi.house. Miami Angels About: Founded in 2013, Miami Angels is one of Florida's largest, longest-running, and most active angel networks. We are industry agnostic, focusing primarily on post-product, post-revenue, early-stage technology companies. Forefront Venture Partners Sweetspot check size: $ 500K Traction metrics requirements: L Post-revenue companies only. Minimum $20k monthly revenue. Thesis: https://www.forefrontvp.com/thesis CEAS Investments Sweetspot check size: $ 250K Traction metrics requirements: No requirements for metrics. Thesis: Investing in enterprise software businesses at the early stages (pre-seed/seed). We are investing off of a family office's balance sheet. We typically invest between $150k - $1.5m as a first check into a company and have the ability to meaningfully follow-on and lead later rounds. Conscience About: Conscience VC invests into early-stage, science-led consumer companies. Sweetspot check size: $ 200K 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 Phyto Psyche About: Phyto Partners is a venture capital fund that invests in businesses operating in and around the burgeoning Cannabis industry. The fund offers accredited investors a professionally managed vehicle to get involved in this rapidly growing market. Sweetspot check size: $ 500K Thesis: Investing in the neuro-wellness megatrend. Animo Ventures About: Animo Ventures is a seed fund investing across the US. Traction metrics requirements: Looking at companies from pre-product to 100K+ in MRR. Florida’s Emerging Startup Hubs Florida's startup ecosystem is thriving, with several cities leading the charge in innovation and entrepreneurship. Here's a look at the top hubs driving this growth: Miami: Fintech, Crypto, Real Estate Tech Miami has rapidly ascended as a global startup powerhouse. In 2024, the city climbed seven spots to rank 16th in the Global Startup Ecosystem Report, reflecting its enhanced global standing. This growth is fueled by a surge in venture capital investments and a supportive environment for startups. The city's strategic location also provides a gateway to Latin American markets, further bolstering its appeal to entrepreneurs. Tampa: Cybersecurity, SaaS, Health Tech Tampa Bay's tech ecosystem has expanded significantly, with substantial investments fostering companies across technology, healthcare, and public safety sectors. The city's commitment to building a stronger tech ecosystem is evident through organizations like Tampa Bay WaVE, which focuses on helping launch tech startups. This supportive infrastructure has attracted a diverse range of innovations, making Tampa a hotbed for tech entrepreneurship. Orlando: Aerospace, Simulation Tech, Biotech Orlando, traditionally known for its tourism industry, is emerging as a significant player in the tech startup scene. The city is home to a growing number of technology-based startups, particularly in the downtown area. Companies like Digital Brands, SharpSpring, and Feathr have established themselves in Orlando, contributing to its reputation as a hub for innovation. The presence of research institutions and a skilled workforce further supports the city's burgeoning startup ecosystem. Fort Lauderdale & Palm Beach: Health Tech, Logistics, Connections to Latin American Markets Fort Lauderdale and Palm Beach are leveraging their strategic locations to foster growth in health tech and logistics. The Research Park at Florida Atlantic University in Boca Raton hosts numerous technology companies and research-based organizations, supporting the development of innovative solutions in these sectors. Additionally, the region's proximity to Latin America positions it as a crucial hub for businesses aiming to expand into international markets. How to Attract Florida-Based Investors Securing investment from Florida-based venture capitalists requires strategic engagement and a compelling business proposition. Here are key approaches to consider: 1. Leverage Local Startup Events & Conferences Attending prominent industry events provides invaluable networking opportunities with potential investors: eMerge Americas (Miami): Scheduled for March 27-28, 2025, at the Miami Beach Convention Center, this conference brings together over 20,000 attendees, including entrepreneurs, investors, and tech leaders. Engaging in such events can enhance your visibility within the investment community. Synapse Summit (Tampa): Set for March 25, 2025, at Raymond James Stadium, this summit convenes over 2,000 industry leaders, investors, and innovators. Participating can facilitate connections with investors interested in Florida's startup ecosystem. 2. Join Accelerators & Incubators Enrolling in reputable programs can provide mentorship, resources, and investor connections: Techstars Miami: This accelerator offers a 13-week program for early-stage startups, providing mentorship and access to a vast network of investors. Participation can significantly enhance your startup's growth trajectory. Embarc Collective (Tampa): As Florida's fastest-growing startup hub, Embarc Collective supports early-stage tech companies through customized coaching and a collaborative workspace, helping startups scale effectively. 1909 (West Palm Beach): This nonprofit accelerator and coworking space focuses on supporting entrepreneurs and startups in South Florida, offering programs that foster innovation and business development. 3. Demonstrate Strong Market Fit and Traction Florida investors often prioritize startups with validated business models and measurable progress: Market Validation: Show evidence of product-market fit through customer feedback, sales data, or pilot programs. Revenue Generation: Highlight consistent revenue streams or a clear path to profitability, as many investors in the region favor companies with proven financial performance. Scalability: Present a strategic plan illustrating how your business can expand and capture a significant market share, showcasing growth potential. Connect With Investors in Florida 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 Florida'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.
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Top Venture Capital Firms in Philadelphia: A Guide for Startup Founders
Philadelphia has rapidly grown into a thriving hub for startups, earning a spot among the world’s top 25 startup ecosystems in 2024. Connecting with the right venture capital (VC) firms is crucial for founders seeking funding in Philadelphia. In the fourth quarter of 2024 alone, the region attracted $1 billion in VC investments, indicating a robust funding landscape. In this article, we will highlight the top 10 VC firms actively investing in Philadelphia startups. Additionally, we will provide insights into the local fundraising landscape, highlight the city's appeal as a startup hub, share success stories, and discuss challenges and opportunities. Philadelphia's vibrant startup ecosystem is supported by a diverse array of venture capital firms that provide essential funding and strategic guidance to emerging companies. Below is a curated list of the top 15 venture capital firms in Philadelphia, highlighting their investment focuses and notable portfolio companies. Top 10 Philadelphia VCs Investing in Startups Dreamit Ventures About: Dreamit is a venture fund and growth-focused accelerator for Urbantech, Securetech, and Healthtech startups Sweetspot check size: $ 1M Traction metrics requirements: Seek healthtech and securetech companies with early commercial traction and proven product market fit that are focused on scaling. Thesis: Dreamit Ventures is a fund and growth program focused on startups with revenue or pilots that are ready to scale. BioAdvance About: BioAdvance provides funding to startup life sciences companies in Southeastern Pennsylvania through its Greenhouse Fund. They invest in therapeutics, devices, diagnostics and platform technologies focused on human health. Since its first investments in 2003, BioAdvance has become one of the nation's leading investors providing pre-seed and seed-stage funding. To date they have committed $19.6 million to 29 seed-stage companies and 15 pre-seed investments. Osage Venture Partners About: Osage Venture Partners is a venture capital fund specializing in early stage, B2B software companies on the East Coast. MissionOG About: MissionOG partners with high-growth businesses that have proven models in segments where we have had success as operators and investors, including financial services and payments, data platforms, and software. To help accelerate our partner companies, we invest financial capital and leverage a broad network of industry experts. Headquartered in Philadelphia, MissionOG is led by a team that has effectively built and scaled companies through their various stages of growth to successful acquisitions. Thesis: We partner with high-growth B2B companies that are driving the digitization of the economy. We are thematic investors in key market segments where we have deep operational knowledge, including fintech, data, and software. We seek to invest $5 million to $10 million with significant follow-on capital where necessary. SeventySix Capital About: SeventySix Capital is at the epicenter of sports & tech, investing in smart and nice entrepreneurs who are building game changing startups. Sweetspot check size: $ 1M Thesis: Investing in and building the tech companies that are bringing streaming, augmented/virtual reality, NFTs, blockchain, Web 3.0 and the Metaverse to the sports industry Robin Hood Ventures About: Robin Hood Ventures is a group of angel investors, focused on early-stage, high-growth companies in the Greater Philadelphia region. We help entrepreneurs build great companies, providing capital, mentoring, expertise and connections to help companies reach their potential. Robin Hood generally invests $250k to $1 million, and collaborates with angels, institutions and VCs in our network. We invest as a single entity in businesses we know and understand, in a way that gets deals done. Since 1999, we have invested in over 45 companies in industries including software, medical devices, biotech, internet and financial technology. Rittenhouse Ventures About: Rittenhouse Ventures is an emerging growth venture fund focused on innovative software solutions that power enterprises in healthcare, life sciences, financial services, human resources, and general business services. With a unique combination of right-sized investments, deep expertise, and a proven track record, we optimize capital and growth strategies for entrepreneurs. Based in Philadelphia and investing across the Mid-Atlantic region, we build long-term partnerships with entrepreneurs, leveraging our extensive local network to our portfolio's advantage. EnerTech Capital About: EnerTech Capital specializes in startups, early, mid, later, to expansion stage investments, and growth capital. EnerTech Capital About: BioAdvance provides funding to startup life sciences companies in Southeastern Pennsylvania through its Greenhouse Fund. They invest in therapeutics, devices, diagnostics and platform technologies focused on human health. Since its first investments in 2003, BioAdvance has become one of the nation's leading investors providing pre-seed and seed-stage funding. To date they have committed $19.6 million to 29 seed-stage companies and 15 pre-seed investments. BioAdvance About: BioAdvance provides funding to startup life sciences companies in Southeastern Pennsylvania through its Greenhouse Fund. They invest in therapeutics, devices, diagnostics and platform technologies focused on human health. Since its first investments in 2003, BioAdvance has become one of the nation's leading investors providing pre-seed and seed-stage funding. To date they have committed $19.6 million to 29 seed-stage companies and 15 pre-seed investments. Fundraising in Philadelphia: Insights, Trends, and Tips Philadelphia's startup ecosystem has demonstrated remarkable resilience and growth, solidifying its position as a burgeoning hub for innovation and entrepreneurship. In 2024, the city was ranked as the 25th global startup ecosystem, moving up two spots from the previous year. Overview of the Local Funding Landscape Philadelphia’s venture capital scene has been buzzing with activity, reflecting a maturing startup ecosystem that continues to attract significant investment. In 2024 Philadelphia-based startups raised $3.29 billion across 440 deals, a notable increase from $2.42 billion across 500 deals in 2023. While the number of deals declined slightly, the overall investment amount grew—signaling a shift in investor strategy. Rather than spreading capital across many smaller bets, investors are prioritizing fewer high-potential companies with strong growth prospects. This trend aligns with broader market patterns, where VC firms are becoming more selective, focusing their resources on startups with proven traction, strong teams, and scalable business models. Common Trends in Startup Funding Several key trends have emerged in Philadelphia's startup funding scene: Life Sciences Lead the Way: Philadelphia continues to be a powerhouse in life sciences, with biotech and pharmaceutical startups dominating the funding landscape. In 2023, six of the top ten venture deals in the city went to companies in these sectors, highlighting strong investor confidence in health innovation. Beyond life sciences, enterprise technology and B2C (business-to-consumer) startups have also gained traction, reflecting a well-balanced and diverse ecosystem. Early-Stage Funding Remains Strong Despite economic fluctuations, early-stage funding in Philadelphia has held steady. In 2023, 151 early-stage deals were recorded—only a slight 3.2% dip from the previous year. This resilience at the seed and pre-seed levels shows that investors remain committed to backing emerging startups, ensuring a strong innovation pipeline in the city. Investors Prioritizing Quality Over Quantity Philadelphia investors are becoming more selective, prioritizing high-growth startups with scalable business models over spreading capital across numerous small bets.Rather than spreading capital across numerous small bets, venture firms are now focusing on startups with high growth potential and clear scalability. This shift toward fewer, higher-value deals signals a maturing market where investors seek companies with strong teams, validated business models, and long-term sustainability. Tips for Navigating the Fundraising Process in Philadelphia For founders aiming to secure funding in Philadelphia, consider the following strategies: Leverage Local Resources: Engage with local incubators and accelerators, such as Ben Franklin Technology Partners and the University City Science Center, which offer funding, mentorship, and networking opportunities. Highlight Sector Strengths: If your startup operates within the life sciences, AI, big data, analytics, or advanced manufacturing sectors, emphasize how your venture aligns with Philadelphia's recognized industry strengths. Attend Local Startup and Investor Events: Establish connections with local investors and participate in community events to increase visibility and credibility within the ecosystem. Philly Tech Week – A week-long series of events, panels, and networking opportunities that attract investors and startup leaders from across the region. PACT Capital Conference – One of the largest venture capital conferences in the Mid-Atlantic, where startups can pitch to investors and connect with funding sources. Founder Factory by Philly Startup Leaders – An event for early-stage entrepreneurs looking to learn from seasoned founders and meet investors. Success Stories from Philadelphia Startups: Notable Achievements and Milestones Philadelphia's startup ecosystem has fostered numerous success stories, exemplifying the city's capacity to nurture and scale innovative ventures. Here are three notable startups that have achieved significant milestones: 1. GoPuff Overview: Founded in 2013 by Drexel University students Yakir Gola and Rafael Ilishayev, GoPuff began as an on-demand hookah delivery service and evolved into a digital delivery platform for convenience items. Funding Milestones: 2016: Raised $8.25 million in Series A funding. 2019: Secured $750 million from SoftBank, with an additional $250 million commitment. 2021: Achieved a valuation of $15 billion after a funding round. 2. Bazaarvoice Overview: Bazaarvoice was founded in 2012, they are a visual marketing platform that enables brands to leverage user-generated content across social media channels. Funding Milestones: 2013: Raised $3 million in Series A funding. 2014: Secured an additional $8.6 million in Series B funding. 3. NeuroFlow Overview: Founded in 2017 by Christopher Molaro and Adam Pardes, NeuroFlow is a digital health company focused on improving mental health care through data-driven solutions. The company’s platform helps healthcare providers integrate behavioral health into primary care, leveraging AI-powered analytics to support patient well-being. Funding Milestones: 2018: Raised $1.25 million in seed funding. 2020: Secured $7.5 million in Series A funding to expand its behavioral health integration platform. 2022: Closed a $25 million Series B round to enhance AI capabilities and scale partnerships with healthcare systems. Challenges and Opportunities for Startups in Philadelphia Philadelphia's startup ecosystem presents a unique blend of challenges and opportunities for entrepreneurs. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for navigating and thriving in this environment. Challenges: Smaller Funding Ecosystem Compared to Major Hubs: Philadelphia’s venture capital scene is expanding, but it remains smaller than major hubs like New York or San Francisco. As a result, startups may need to look beyond the city for larger funding rounds. Limited Access to Certain Types of Investors: Startups, particularly those in later stages of development, may find it challenging to connect with investors specializing in large-scale funding rounds within the local market. This necessitates seeking investment opportunities beyond the regional boundaries. Opportunities: Growing Interest from National Venture Capitalists: Philadelphia is increasingly catching the attention of national VC firms, drawn by its lower operating costs, strong talent pipeline, and emerging industries. The city's strategic location, coupled with a lower cost of living and operating expenses, makes it an appealing destination for investors looking to diversify their portfolios. Emerging Industries and Untapped Markets: Philadelphia is witnessing growth in sectors such as healthcare technology, biotechnology, and information technology. The presence of renowned research institutions and universities provides a fertile ground for innovation, offering startups the opportunity to pioneer solutions in these emerging fields. Connect With Investors in Philadelphia 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 Philadelphia'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.
founders
Fundraising
The Ultimate Guide to Raising Venture Capital in Charlotte
Charlotte, North Carolina, has rapidly evolved into a vibrant hub for startups, particularly in the fintech sector. In 2024, the city was ranked among the top 10 global ecosystems for financial technology startups in regions with populations under 3 million.This recognition underscores Charlotte's dynamic environment for innovation and entrepreneurship. This guide will walk you through the top venture capital firms actively investing in Charlotte-based startups, along with essential resources and strategies for successful fundraising in the region. Top Venture Capital Firms in Charlotte 1. Frontier Growth About: Frontier Capital specializes in growth equity investments in software and tech-enabled services companies. Thesis: We partner with domain experts who are disrupting late-adopter industries with modern vertical SaaS solutions that customers love. We are people-first investors, passionate about supporting vertical SaaS companies through their growth journey. 2. Falfurrias Management 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. 3. 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. 4. 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. 5. 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. 6. Carousel Capital About: Carousel Capital is a private investment firm that focuses on investing in companies located in the Southeastern United States. The firm has an extensive track record of partnering with management teams to build leading companies with national and global presence within its three targeted growth sectors: business services; consumer products and services; and healthcare services. Carousel's investor base is comprised of institutional investors and, since the firm's inception, a group of more than one hundred current and former corporate Chief Executive Officers. These executives assist the firm in sourcing opportunities, as well as providing sector insight and strategic support. 7. 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. 8. 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. 9. 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. 10. 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. The Charlotte Startup Ecosystem Charlotte's transformation into a startup hub is fueled by its robust financial infrastructure, talent pipeline, and quality of life. The city is home to over 50,000 tech workers and secured $1.2 billion in startup funding in 2024, reflecting its dynamic ecosystem. Key Industries and Sectors Fintech: Charlotte ranks among the top 10 global ecosystems for fintech startups in regions with populations under 3 million. Healthcare Technology: With major healthcare systems like Novant Health, the city fosters healthtech startups focusing on patient care and medical devices. Enterprise Software: B2B software companies, especially those serving financial services and healthcare sectors, thrive in Charlotte's business-friendly environment. Networking Opportunities and Resources LaunchCLT: Connects founders and mentors to catalyze a sustainable entrepreneurial ecosystem in the greater Charlotte region. RevTech Labs: Provides accelerators for fintech, healthtech, and insurtech startups, offering funding, mentorship, and visibility. Ventureprise Launch: An accelerator program offering funding and support for sector-agnostic startups. Notable Startups and Success Stories in Charlotte Charlotte's growing startup ecosystem has produced a number of high-profile success stories across various industries, including fintech, healthtech, and e-commerce. These companies have secured significant funding, achieved major milestones, and contributed to the city's reputation as an emerging startup hub. Here are some of the most notable startups that have made an impact in Charlotte: AvidXchange Industry: Fintech About: Founded in 2000, AvidXchange is one of Charlotte’s biggest startup success stories. The company provides automated accounts payable and payment automation solutions for mid-market businesses. Success Milestones: AvidXchange went public in 2021, reaching a valuation of over $2 billion. It remains one of the largest fintech employers in Charlotte. Carewell Industry: E-commerce, Healthtech About: Carewell is a family-owned e-commerce platform that specializes in home health products for caregivers. The company provides personalized customer support and resources to help caregivers manage their loved ones' needs. Success Milestones: Carewell raised $25 million in Series B funding in 2022 and was named one of the fastest-growing startups in the Southeast. Stratifyd Industry: Artificial Intelligence, Analytics About: Stratifyd uses AI and machine learning to analyze unstructured data for enterprises, providing insights into customer feedback, market trends, and operational efficiencies. Success Milestones: The company has raised over $50 million in funding from investors, including Charlotte-based Frontier Capital. Red Ventures Industry: Digital Media, Marketing About: Red Ventures is a digital marketing and media company that owns and operates several well-known brands, including CNET, Bankrate, and The Points Guy. Success Milestones: The company has grown into a billion-dollar business with over 3,000 employees worldwide. MapAnything (Acquired by Salesforce) Industry: SaaS, Location Intelligence About: The acquisition of MapAnything by Salesforce put Charlotte on the map for SaaS and enterprise software startups. MapAnything developed location-based software for sales and service teams, integrating with Salesforce to optimize routing, sales territory mapping, and customer engagement. Success Milestones: The company was acquired by Salesforce in 2019 for an undisclosed sum, making it one of Charlotte’s biggest startup exits. Ekos Industry: SaaS, Craft Beverage Tech About: Ekos provides business management software for craft beverage producers, including breweries, cideries, and wineries, helping them streamline inventory, production, and sales. Success Milestones: The company has raised over $20 million in funding and serves thousands of craft beverage businesses worldwide. Connect With Investors in Charlotte 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 Charlotte'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.
founders
Fundraising
Top 15 Venture Capital Firms in Houston Fueling Startup Growth
Houston, long known as the energy capital of the world, is rapidly emerging as a vibrant startup ecosystem that's attracting ambitious founders and venture capital investment. While the city's entrepreneurial roots run deep in energy and healthcare, a new wave of innovation is transforming Houston into a diverse technological hub that spans industries from cleantech to digital transformation. In 2024, Houston's startup scene reached several significant milestones, with local startups raising over $1.2 billion in venture funding. This growth reflects the city's unique advantages: a lower cost of living compared to coastal tech hubs, access to major corporate headquarters, world-class research institutions, and a deep talent pool enriched by technical expertise from the energy and medical sectors. For founders navigating Houston's funding landscape, understanding the local venture capital ecosystem is crucial. This comprehensive guide maps out the city's most active and influential venture capital firms, while providing actionable insights for fundraising success in the Houston market. Whether you're launching a seed-stage startup or scaling a growth-stage company, you'll find the resources and connections needed to advance your fundraising journey. Top 15 Venture Capital Firms in Houston 1. Mercury Fund About: Mercury is an early-stage venture capital firm partnering with entrepreneurs to drive innovation across Middle America. Mercury’s investment themes target B2B SaaS and B2B2C marketplace platforms enabling the digital transformation of markets, industries, and customer relationships. With $750M under management, Mercury has created over $9 billion of value with an operationally focused investment strategy helping startups achieve rapid, sustainable growth. Mercury is headquartered in Houston with offices in Austin, Texas and Ann Arbor, Michigan. 2. Chevron Technology Ventures About: Chevron’s Core Venture Fund invests in technologies that have the potential to add efficiencies to Chevron’s core business in the areas of operational enhancement, digitalization and lower-carbon operations. Chevron’s first Core Venture Fund was launched in 1999. Now in our seventh fund, we have invested in more than 100 companies with more than 150 other investors. Thesis: CTV engages a range of startup companies, investors, incubators and accelerators to access technology that can be used across Chevron now and in the future to enable us to operate more efficiently, to lower the carbon intensity of our operations and launch viable new businesses. 3. The Artemis Fund About: The Artemis Fund seeds tech innovators modernizing wealth. Sweetspot check size: $ 1.50M Thesis: Investing in female founders in fin-tech, care-tech, and e-commerce enablement. 4. Goose Capital About: Goose Capital is an investment firm comprised of former Fortune 500 executives, industry leaders, and serial entrepreneurs. We invest in breakthrough technologies and innovative founders. 5. Houston Ventures About: Houston Ventures focuses on technology opportunities that solve operational problems in the energy and power industries. These technologies often are used in other industries to drive incremental revenue or deliver cost reductions, but have not made the transition to the energy and power sectors. 6. Texas Atlantic Capital About: TAC invests in Europe and the USA. We invest in all stages (seed, early and growth) of companies with exceptional teams and scalable business models. Our investment sizes go from $500,000 for seed stage to $30 million for growth stage. We like opportunities in deep tech, e-commerce, media, and software domains. 7. Golden Section About: Golden Section exists to journey together with B2B software founders to achieve meaningful exits through flourishing communities, effective partnership, and a commitment to balance. 8. Seed Round Capital Sweetspot check size: $ 100K Traction metrics requirements: Product in market with $5k MMR or $100k ARR in revenue. Thesis: Product in market with $5k MMR or $100k ARR in revenue. $10M or less Valuation. 9. Quantum Energy Partners About: Founded in 1998, Quantum Capital Group is a leading provider of private equity, credit, and venture capital to the global energy and energy transition industry, having managed together with its affiliates more than $28 billion in capital commitments since inception. Quantum pursues a disciplined yet creative approach to investing across the entire energy value chain, including: oil and gas, energy infrastructure, renewable power, decarbonization, and energy & sustainability technologies. We strive to add value to the entrepreneurs with whom we partner through strategic, technical, operational and digital support. 10. Knightsgate Ventures About: Knightsgate Ventures is an early-stage venture capital firm that invests in mission-driven startups to build a future that is sustainable, equitable, inclusive, and diverse. Thesis: We invest early in ideas and people that are looking to create positive change through tech innovation We are sector agnostic investors and we partner with the best startups across sectors. All products and services we invest in are bringing innovative ideas to their industries making the world a place we want to live in while creating significant financial and social value. 11. SpaceFund About: SpaceFund is a Venture Capital firm focused on supporting and investing in the growth of the space economy. Our team has the extensive industry experience and a strategic investment approach. By backing innovative ventures and leveraging our portfolio, we aim to drive the development of the space industry and generate solid returns for our investors. Our focus is on building a sustainable future for space exploration and improving people's lives on Earth and beyond. If you are interested in supporting the space industry's growth and exploring potential investment opportunities, we welcome the opportunity to speak with you. 12. HX Venture Fund About: HX Venture Fund is a venture capital fund of funds that creates a multiplier effect by linking the transformational power of world-class corporations, technology innovation, and high-growth startups with proven venture investment talent, company-building expertise, and capital. 13. Amnis Ventures About: Amnis Ventures is a broad range investment firm focused on innovative technologies in many fields of use that deliver sustainable results. Investments have included energy-related specialty chemicals, innovative hardware technologies in renewable energy, novel democratised block-chain based financial services platform and sustainable real estate development. 14. Texas HALO Fund About: Texas HALO Fund is an investment company specializing in diverse, early stage businesses with promising growth prospects and exceptional management teams. Our investment approach identifies compelling businesses from multiple sources without regard to industry or geographic location. Quite simply, we seek the best opportunities, locally, regionally and nationally, in order to generate the highest returns for our investors with the lowest possible risk. Each fund invests in multiple companies in a variety of industries in order to construct a diversified portfolio. Our process involves rigorous due diligence and extensive interaction with management prior to making a capital commitment and then active on-going oversight, often through board positions or board observation rights. Texas HALO Fund was created to give investors access to the high return potential of early-stage investments while addressing the unique challenges that confront investors attempting to create a diversified portfolio, such as quality deal flow, due diligence expertise, and limited capital to spread among the many investments needed in a diversified portfolio. 15. Texas Ventures About: Texas Ventures is a private equity and venture capital firm with expertise in structured finance, capital markets and technology. Thesis: Our investment approach is to identify emerging trends and opportunities prior to recognition by the broader marketplace, and to take a proactive approach in working with entrepreneurs and managers who have the desire, talent and determination to build world-class companies. Houston's Startup Ecosystem Overview Houston's transformation into a technology hub builds upon its traditional strengths while embracing new opportunities. The ecosystem benefits from several key advantages that make it an increasingly attractive destination for founders: Industry Leadership and Innovation Houston's startup ecosystem leverages its established leadership in key sectors: Energy and Cleantech: The city's energy expertise is driving innovation in renewable energy, carbon capture, and sustainable technologies Healthcare and Life Sciences: The Texas Medical Center, the world's largest medical complex, spawns numerous healthtech and biotech startups Space Technology: NASA's Johnson Space Center anchors a growing space technology sector Industrial Technology: Digital transformation of traditional industries creates opportunities for B2B software and IoT solutions Infrastructure and Support Houston's startup ecosystem is built on a foundation of world-class infrastructure and support systems that give founders the resources they need to succeed. At the heart of this is a network of innovation districts, accelerators, and research institutions working together to drive technological advancement. The Ion, Houston's flagship innovation hub, has transformed a historic Midtown building into a 266,000-square-foot entrepreneurial hub. In addition to modern office space, The Ion hosts numerous startup development programs, corporate innovation initiatives, and networking events that help founders and investors connect. The surrounding Innovation District has attracted major technology companies and startups, creating a density of talent and opportunities. Houston's accelerator programs offer founders structured pathways to growth. MassChallenge Texas provides equity-free funding and mentorship to early-stage startups focusing on energy, healthcare, and space technologies. The Texas Medical Center's TMCx program gives healthcare startups access to the world's largest medical complex and member institutions. Greentown Labs, North America's largest climate tech startup incubator, chose Houston for its second location, offering specialized resources for clean energy entrepreneurs. The city's academic institutions play a vital role in fueling innovation. Rice University's Liu Idea Lab for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (Lilie) offers entrepreneurship education and startup support, while its Rice Alliance for Technology and Entrepreneurship has helped launch over 2,000 startups that have raised more than $8.1 billion in funding. The University of Houston's Technology Bridge provides lab space and commercialization support for deep-tech startups, particularly in energy and advanced materials. Texas Southern University also contributes to the talent pipeline through specialized technology and entrepreneurship programs. Organizations like Houston Exponential act as ecosystem connectors, while specialized facilities like the East End Maker Hub provide prototyping and manufacturing resources for hardware startups. Competitive Advantages Houston offers founders unique advantages that directly impact startup growth and sustainability. The cost advantage is significant. Office space and operating costs are 45% lower than in San Francisco, and the median home price is approximately one-third of Bay Area levels. This translates to a longer runway for startups and a better quality of life for team members. There is also no state income tax, further strengthening the financial equation for companies and employees. The intersection of energy, healthcare, and technology sectors creates a workforce that understands complex industries and regulatory environments. The city's international community adds global perspective and connections. The proximity to Fortune 500 headquarters provides opportunities for B2B startups. Over 20 major corporations have offices in Houston, with active startup partnership programs. Companies like Shell, Memorial Hermann Health, and HPE regularly engage with local startups through pilot programs and strategic partnerships. Connect With Investors in Houston 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 Houston'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.
investors
Reporting
Your Guide to Portfolio Reporting in Visible
As a venture capital investor, you know that clear, actionable portfolio insights can mean the difference between informed decisions and missed opportunities. That’s why we created Our Guide to Portfolio Reports in Visible — a comprehensive resource to help you streamline how you visualize, analyze, and communicate insights about your portfolio companies. In this guide, you’ll discover: Common metrics that top VC firms track, such as Revenue, Cash Balance, and Runway. Segmentation strategies that enable deeper analysis by Fund, Market, or Partner. How to use Visible Portfolio Reports to consolidate portfolio data into one view. Examples of portfolio reports showcasing real-world insights from leading firms. Join 590+ venture capital funds already using Visible to uncover insights, fill reporting gaps, and make data-driven decisions faster. Are you ready to take your portfolio reporting to the next level? Download the guide below:
founders
Fundraising
Top 15 Venture Capital Firms Funding Startups in San Diego
San Diego has rapidly emerged as a dynamic hub for startups, blending innovation with a high quality of life. Known for its thriving biotech and health tech industries, the city is also gaining recognition for cleantech, SaaS, and other forward-looking sectors. With its proximity to world-class research institutions like UC San Diego and Scripps Research, as well as a growing network of accelerators and incubators, San Diego provides fertile ground for startups to launch and scale. In this article, we will highlight the top 10 VCs investing in startups in San Diego and provide insights into the local startup ecosystem and fundraising landscape. The Startup Ecosystem in San Diego San Diego's startup ecosystem is a vibrant and supportive environment for entrepreneurs, offering a wealth of resources, accelerators, and incubators designed to foster innovation and growth. These organizations are just a few that contribute to a great support system for startups in the region: EvoNexus: As Southern California's leading startup technology incubator, EvoNexus provides entrepreneurs with mentorship, access to capital, and strategic partnerships to help transform ideas into viable companies. Connect: A premier innovation company accelerator in San Diego, Connect offers programs like Springboard, which provides startups with mentoring and access to a network of industry experts to accelerate their growth. Startup San Diego: A nonprofit organization serving as the gateway to the local startup ecosystem, Startup San Diego connects founders and talent to resources, networks, and support institutions, fostering a cohesive entrepreneurial community. BioLabs San Diego: A co-working space tailored for life science startups, offering shared lab space and equipment to support biotech entrepreneurs in their early stages. Hera Hub: A female-focused co-working space and business accelerator providing a collaborative environment for women entrepreneurs to grow their businesses. Benefits of Running a Startup in San Diego Operating a startup in San Diego offers several advantages: Talent Pool: The presence of leading research institutions like the University of California, San Diego (UCSD), and a strong military community provide a steady stream of skilled professionals in fields such as biotechnology, engineering, and information technology. Proximity to Research Institutions: Institutions like UCSD and the Salk Institute drive innovation and provide opportunities for collaboration, particularly in sectors like biotech and life sciences. Quality of Life: San Diego's favorable climate, beautiful beaches, and vibrant cultural scene make it an attractive location for talent, aiding in recruitment and retention for startups. Fundraising in San Diego Securing funding is a pivotal step for startups aiming to scale their operations. San Diego offers a unique fundraising landscape, with a variety of resources and events tailored to support entrepreneurs. Tips for Fundraising in San Diego Engage with Local Angel Investors: San Diego has a robust network of angel investors who provide critical early-stage funding. Organizations like Tech Coast Angels and the San Diego Angel Conference are prominent in this space. Tech Coast Angels, for instance, is one of the largest and most active angel groups in the US, offering funding and mentorship to startups across various industries. Participate in Pitch Competitions: Events such as the San Diego Angel Conference offer startups the opportunity to pitch to a network of over 200 angel investors. Winners receive investments of $200,000 or more. These competitions provide not only funding opportunities but also valuable exposure and feedback. Leverage Crowdfunding Platforms: For startups with consumer-facing products, crowdfunding can effectively raise capital while validating market demand. San Diego-based companies have found success on platforms like Kickstarter and Indiegogo. For example, OSSIC, a tech company developing headphones with 3D audio technology, raised over $2.6 million on Kickstarter, with almost 10,000 backers supporting the firm.  Network Strategically: Building relationships within the local startup ecosystem is crucial. Attend industry meetups, startup events, and networking opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals and potential investors. San Diego hosts many events geared towards entrepreneurs and investors, such as the annual Startup Week, which features workshops, panels, and networking opportunities. Networking and Local Startup Events San Diego's vibrant startup community offers numerous events that facilitate networking and learning: San Diego Startup Week: An annual premier conference that brings together entrepreneurs, investors, mentors, executives, and talent to connect, educate, and inspire the San Diego innovation ecosystem. The event is jam-packed with seminars, workshops, panel discussions, special events, and networking sessions aimed to foster an inclusive and collaborative community. March Mingle: San Diego’s largest annual startup and tech networking event, bringing together technologists from various local tech user groups to socialize and share ideas. Established in 2004, March Mingle is a platform for San Diego’s leading technologists to gather and socialize. Startup San Diego Events: Regular events such as 1st Mondays and specialized workshops provide platforms for entrepreneurs to connect, learn, and grow within the local startup ecosystem. Startup San Diego is a California 501(c)(3) nonprofit serving the San Diego Startup Ecosystem, guiding and connecting local founders and talent to the right resources, networks, and support institutions. San Diego Entrepreneurs Exchange (SDEE) Events: SDEE hosts a number of truly fantastic events, ranging from monthly happy hours to expert-led workshops and networking events, providing opportunities for entrepreneurial innovators to connect and learn. Comparing San Diego’s Investment Landscape While San Diego's startup ecosystem is rapidly growing, it differs from larger hubs like Silicon Valley and Los Angeles in several ways: Scale of Investment: Silicon Valley attracts more venture capital due to its established reputation and dense concentration of tech companies. However, San Diego is gaining traction, particularly in sectors like biotechnology, health tech, and clean energy, attracting significant venture capital and driving innovation across multiple sectors. Community and Accessibility: San Diego's startup community is known for its collaborative and supportive nature. It often provides more accessible networking opportunities than the competitive environments of larger hubs. Events like San Diego Startup Week and organizations like Startup San Diego significantly foster this community spirit. Cost of Operations: Operating a startup in San Diego can be more cost-effective than in Silicon Valley or Los Angeles, with lower living costs and operational expenses, making it an attractive option for early-stage startups. Top 15 Venture Capitalists in San Diego Tech Coast Angels About: Tech Coast Angels is the largest angel investor group in the United States, possessing more than 300 members in five networks in Los Angeles, Orange County, San Diego, Central Coast, and the Inland Empire. Its members provide funding and guidance to more early-stage, high-growth companies in Southern California than any other investment group. Sweetspot check size: $ 500K Traction metrics requirements: Yes. Usually investing after product market fit or defensible IP. Thesis: SoCal focused innovation companies Correlation Ventures About: Correlation Ventures is a new breed of venture capital firm, leveraging world-class analytics to offer entrepreneurs and other venture capitalists a dramatically better option when they are seeking additional capital to complete a financing round. Thesis: We provide fast and reliable access to venture capital so teams can spend less time fundraising and more time building their businesses. Qualcomm Ventures About: Qualcomm Ventures is the venture capital arm of Qualcomm Incorporated and is based in San Diego, California with several satellite offices located throughout world. Founded in 2000, Qualcomm Ventures is a corporate venture capital fund with over 150 active portfolio companies and more than 20 exits over a billion dollars, including 99 Taxis, Cruise Automation, Fitbit, Invensense, NQ Mobile, Waze and more. As a global investor, Qualcomm Ventures helps connect entrepreneurs to the resources, relationships and deep industry expertise they need to succeed in the mobile technology ecosystem. Thesis: The group is focused on early to late-stage investments in the mobile/wireless sector, with strong interests in 5G, IoT, Connected Automotive, AI, Consumer, enterprise, and cloud. Section 32 About: S32 is a venture capital firm investing at the frontiers of technology. Founded by Bill Maris, the team has vast experience building iconic companies. Our goal is to accelerate the discovery, development, and distribution of revolutionary technologies that improve the human condition. We invest across the entirety of technology. This includes artificial intelligence, enterprise software, cybersecurity, fintech, quantum computing, computational biology, and biotechnology. Offices in San DIego, San Francisco, and New York. Harpoon About: Harpoon Ventures is an early-stage venture capital firm with a deep commitment to supporting the next generation of groundbreaking technology. With $300 million in assets under management, we invest in a wide range of transformative ventures, including those in AI, deep tech, cyber security, and enterprise infrastructure. TVC Capital About: TVC Capital is an operator-led growth equity firm focused on investments in and acquisitions of software companies. We target a wide spectrum of software sectors and industry verticals that are poised for growth and consolidation. We invest growth equity in minority interests as well as provide capital for recapitalizations and buyouts. Thesis: TVC Capital seeks investment opportunities with US software companies generating $2.5 million plus in annual revenue. We typically invest in such companies that are at or tracking towards profitability, meet a mission-critical need of their customer base, and are in need of capital to accelerate their growth. We also welcome the opportunity to begin a dialogue with growth-oriented software companies that are below our revenue threshold, but are at an inflection point in their development and are poised for future growth. Forward Ventures About: Forward Ventures, founded in 1990, has a team of investment professionals with extensive experience in entrepreneurship, venture capital, biological sciences, operations, and corporate management. The most recent fund focuses on biopharmaceutical products in early clinical development. We maximize returns through capital efficiency in our portfolio companies. We use our financial, technical and business resources to support founders and management. On a number of occasions, we have seeded companies from scratch, building strong teams to pursue compelling opportunities. Spark Growth Ventures About: Spark Growth Ventures is a community driven, early & mid stage, vertical-agnostic, technology venture capital firm. Our mission is to support gritty and exceptional founders in their missions by bringing forth the combined value of our strong community. We are fortunate to have a global network of entrepreneurs, C-level relationships, subject matter experts, world-class talent, institutional investors, high net worth individuals and family offices, many of who are investors in our platform. Our team has several decades of global experience in venture capital, entrepreneurship, innovation, executive & board management, functional leadership and advisory work. Sweetspot check size: $ 1.50M Traction metrics requirements Post PMF with min. $1M in SaaS ARR or $4-5M in non SaaS annualized run rate. High capital efficiency and scalability metrics Thesis: Capital efficient and scalable business model rooted in tech enabled products and services solving real and large problems. Mission oriented and gritty founders are a must. Longley Capital About: We invest in meaningful companies at the forefront of emerging technologies. Focusing on underserved markets, we champion management teams with visionary ideas and nurture our investments with the quantitative and qualitative disciplines necessary to accelerate enterprise value and mitigate portfolio risk. We implement business fundamentals and control early in a company’s lifecycle in order to ensure success in later stages. Radical Growth About: We discover world-class entrepreneurs and emerging technologies changing food and agriculture. Many of our founders took part in the Radicle Challenge, our pitch competition. By bringing our expertise and network, we help entrepreneurs and large corporations positively impact the future of food.  Thesis: The Acceleration Fund solves some of the most pressing issues facing the earth today by reducing the time to bring the latest Ag technologies to market. The fund is focused on tackling global farming problems by investing and accelerating companies in the areas of Digital Ag, Biologicals, New Farm Systems and Seed Technology. Crescent Ridge About: Crescent Ridge invests in early-stage companies on a mission to build a better world. We want to back entrepreneurs solving deep problems that affect Health/People/Planet. We bring the rigor of institutional capital with the trust and closeness of family and friends. Versant Ventures About: Versant Ventures is a leading healthcare investment firm committed to helping exceptional entrepreneurs build the next generation of great companies. The firm’s emphasis is on biotechnology companies that are discovering and developing novel therapeutics. With $2.4 billion under management and offices in the US, Canada and Europe, Versant has built a team with deep investment, operating and clinical expertise that enables a hands-on approach to company building. Since the firm’s founding in 1999, more than 70 Versant companies have achieved successful acquisitions or IPOs. Founders First Capital Partners About: National lender serving BIPOC, veteran, LGBTQ+, & women-owned businesses, as well as businesses in LMI zones & those committed to diverse hiring practices. Helping accelerate business growth through our Revenue-Based Funding products & Advisory Services. Together, we can create more jobs, increase your revenues and bottom line, and provide more growth capital to help your business. We’re backed by the nation’s top philanthropic organizations, so that we can fund you with the right capital. Thesis: We help companies grow and scale through strategic advisory and revenue-based investment. Lolita Taub About: Lolita Taub is the Chief of Staff and interim Head of Sales at Catalyte, and a 2x TEDx speaker, with a venture capital and enterprise tech background. She is also Scout at Indie.VC, an investor at NextGen Venture Partners, an LP at Operator Collective and Portfolia’s Enterprise Fund; and a former VC at Backstage Capital and K Fund. Lolita holds over a decade of enterprise B2B software, hardware, and services sales experience at IBM, Cisco Systems and in Silicon Valley. She has a BA from the University of Southern California and an MBA from the IE Business School. Lolita has been recognized for her work on Forbes, Inc.com, The Huffington Post and Entrepreneur.com among other publications. Sweetspot check size: $ 20K FusionX Ventures About: FusionX Ventures is a Southern California-based venture capital firm that invests in promising, early stage startups in technology, industrial and medical/life science sectors. Connect With Investors in San Diego 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 Diego 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.
founders
Fundraising
Key Venture Capital Firms Powering Denver's Thriving Startup Scene
Denver has solidified its position as a rising hub for startup innovation and venture capital activity. Known for its dynamic entrepreneurial culture, diverse industry strengths, and access to a growing pool of skilled talent, the city has attracted both emerging startups and established investment firms. From technology and SaaS to clean energy and life sciences, Denver's thriving ecosystem offers opportunities for founders seeking capital to scale their businesses. In this article, we will explore the top venture capital firms actively investing in Denver, highlight the key industries driving innovation in the region, and showcase some of the most successful startups that have secured significant funding. Whether you're an early-stage founder or an investor exploring Denver's ecosystem, this guide will help you navigate the city's vibrant fundraising landscape. Top Venture Capital Firms in Denver Denver is home to a diverse range of venture capital firms actively investing in startups across multiple industries. Here's a list of some of the most prominent VCs in the region: 1. Stout Street Capital About: Stout Street Capital is a seed-stage fund that seeks to invest in early-stage companies focused on improving efficiency and generating bottom-line value in large established sectors in the market. Stout Street’s Value Fund-II is currently focused on post-revenue, seed-to-series-A investments in companies valued at less than $10 million. Stout Street’s Value Fund-I has invested in 36 companies by the end of 2018 and Stout Street Value Fund-II is projected to invest in 50 companies with an average initial investment of 100k by 2020. We usually reserve 500k-$1M in follow on investment for our portfolio companies. 2. SpringTime Ventures About: SpringTime Ventures seeds high-growth startups in healthcare, fintech & insurtech, and logistics & supply chain. We look for founders with domain expertise, forging a path with a truly transformative technology. We only invest in software-based businesses in the USA. We bring a people-focused approach, work quickly, and reach conviction independently. 3. Green Lion Partners About: Green Lion Partners is a Denver, CO based business strategy firm focused on early stage development in the regulated cannabis industry. Sweetspot check size: $ 3.30M Thesis: Empowering business through innovative professional practices 4. Konvoy Ventures About: Konvoy Ventures is a venture capital fund dedicated to esports & video gaming Sweetspot check size: $ 1.50M Thesis: We invest in the infrastructure technology, tools, and platforms of tomorrow’s video gaming industry. 5. LabStart About: LabStart is building accessible pathways for underrepresented entrepreneurs to bring climate technologies from lab-to-market. A trove of valuable, scalable climate technologies continues to sit dormant - untapped and hidden behind research institution walls. To unlock these ready-innovations in a way that generates equitable market opportunities for underserved communities, we match market-ready tech with talented entrepreneurs selected from the front lines of climate change. We are a team of entrepreneurs, national lab researchers, commercialization consultants, investors, and programmatic experts. We fund full-time entrepreneur-minded fellows to discover, build, and launch startups based on technologies developed in premier research laboratories. 6. KEY Investment Partners About: KEY Investment Partners is a venture capital firm focused on providing capital to early-stage cannabis companies. Sweetspot check size: $ 1M Traction metrics requirements: Over 1,000,000 annualized revenues 7. Blackhorn Ventures About: Blackhorn Ventures is an early stage venture firm that invests in capital-efficient companies redefining resource use, enabling the decarbonization of the toughest to transition sectors in our economy (Transportation, the Built Environment, Supply Chain, and Energy). Thesis: Blackhorn Ventures invests in world-class founders building digital infrastructure to redefine industrial resource efficiency. 8. Bigfoot Capital About: Debt capital for growing SaaS companies to expand their footprint. Traction metrics requirements: ARR of $500K+. At least 12 months of customer history, generally 20+ enterprise customers or 200+ SMB customers. Rational burn profile, up to 50% of revenue at close, scaling down. Capital need of up to $1.5M over next 12 months Thesis: We make fast, data-driven credit decisions for these types of businesses and show Founders how the math/ROI works. We’re currently evaluating about 20 companies a month and issuing term sheets to 25% of them; those that fit our investment criteria. We’re also regularly following-on for existing portfolio companies. 9. Colorado Impact Fund About: The Colorado Impact Fund (CIF) is a Denver-based venture capital firm investing in Colorado companies with high-growth, scalable business models and a commitment to make their community better. CIF was created to support a growing entrepreneurial and impact ecosystem throughout the state of Colorado. CIF manages approximately $80 million of private capital with the Colorado Impact Fund I and the Colorado Impact Bridge Fund. 10. UpSlope About: Formerly Galvanize Ventures, Upslope Ventures is an early stage venture capital fund that invests in startups across the country. We believe exceptional teams can originate from any location. We provide more than capital and introductions. By leveraging our network we aim to empower entrepreneurs with the resources they need to have their best chance at success - even if we don’t invest. Thesis: We invest in all catagories, some of which are: SaaS, Hardware/IOT, Mobile, AI, Consumer, E-Commerce, Content, FinTech, Aerospace, Marketplace, AdTech, Robotics, Medical Device, Virtual Reality, and Data Science. Key Industries Thriving in Denver A diverse range of thriving industries characterizes Denver's economy, each contributing significantly to the region's growth and innovation. Technology & SaaS Denver has established itself as a prominent hub for technology and SaaS companies. The city's favorable business environment and skilled workforce have attracted numerous tech startups and established firms. The IT-Software sector in Metro Denver is experiencing a surge, driven by a growing remote workforce and high quality of life. Clean Energy & Sustainability Colorado's abundant natural resources make it an ideal location for energy innovation and research. The state serves as a laboratory for advancements in renewable energy, strongly emphasizing sustainability. Metro Denver's energy and natural resources industry is robust, supporting a significant workforce and contributing to the region's economic vitality. Life Sciences & Biotech Denver's bioscience industry thrives on collaboration and entrepreneurial spirit, fostering innovation in healthcare and biotechnology. The region's commitment to health and wellness is evident, with Colorado consistently ranking as one of the healthiest states in the U.S. This focus has led to a dynamic healthcare and wellness industry in Metro Denver. Aerospace & Defense Colorado boasts the nation's second-largest aerospace economy, with a high concentration of major space contractors and suppliers. The state's strategic location and educated talent pool have made it a leader in aerospace employment. Colorado's aerospace ecosystem is the global leader, ranking #1 per capita in aerospace employment, with over 2,000 aerospace businesses directly employing over 55,000 individuals. Notable Denver Startups That Secured Funding Denver's startup ecosystem has witnessed remarkable success stories, with several companies securing substantial funding from prominent venture capital firms. Here are some notable examples: Guild Education A leading education platform that partners with employers to offer debt-free degrees to workers, Guild Education achieved unicorn status in 2019. The company has attracted investments from firms such as Bessemer Venture Partners, GV (formerly Google Ventures), and ICONIQ Capital. Ibotta A cashback rewards app that provides users with real cash back on everyday purchases, Ibotta has secured significant venture backing, including a $85 million Series D funding round in 2017 led by Koch Disruptive Technologies. Outrider An autonomous truck startup specializing in automating yard operations for logistics hubs, Outrider secured $62 million in Series D funding in October 2024. The round was led by Koch Disruptive Technologies and New Enterprise Associates, bringing its total funds raised to over $250 million. AMP Robotics A company that develops AI-powered robotics systems for recycling facilities, AMP Robotics raised $91 million in a Series C funding round in 2021, with investments from XN, Valor Equity Partners, and GV. Soona A Denver-based photo and video studio startup, Soona raised $10.2 million in a Series A funding round in 2021, led by Union Square Ventures, to enhance its real-time content creation services for e-commerce clients. Connect With Investors in Denver 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 Denver 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.
founders
Fundraising
Meet the Top VCs Investing in Seattle’s Thriving Startup Ecosystem
Seattle has become a vibrant hub for startups, driven by a combination of technological innovation, top-tier talent, and a supportive investment landscape. The city is home to global tech giants such as Amazon and Microsoft, which have helped establish a strong foundation for technology-driven entrepreneurship. Beyond the major corporations, Seattle boasts a highly educated workforce, with talent frequently emerging from the University of Washington and other prestigious institutions. The city also benefits from a supportive infrastructure that includes startup accelerators like Techstars Seattle and coworking spaces such as The Cloud Room and The Pioneer Collective. Emerging innovation hubs in neighborhoods like South Lake Union and Pioneer Square have become focal points for the startup community, hosting a diverse mix of startups, venture capital firms, and creative workspaces. With these combined elements, Seattle continues to solidify its reputation as an ideal location for founders seeking to raise capital and build transformative companies. This guide will explore the key elements of Seattle's startup landscape, from active VCs and strategic fundraising insights to overcoming challenges and leveraging regional advantages for success. Top 10 Active VCs in Seattle Madrona Venture Group About: Madrona Venture Group has been investing in early-stage technology companies in the Pacific Northwest since 1995. Thesis: Early Stage through the long run Pioneer Square Labs About: A seed and pre-seed venture capital fund based in Seattle, Washington. Thesis: Investing in market-defining companies at Pre-Seed, Seed, and Series A Flying Fish Partners About: We are an early-stage venture firm based in Seattle investing in high-potential AI and ML technology companies across the U.S. and Canada. We believe artificial intelligence and machine learning will disrupt every industry and are looking for the next generation of leaders in every field who are building companies with machine learning at the heart of their strategy. Frazier Healthcare Partners About: Since 1991, Frazier Healthcare Partners leverages the experience of its team of investment professionals, Center of Excellence, Senior Advisors and Executives in Residence to identify broader industry trends, develop specific investment theses, and then partner with accomplished industry executives to identify, acquire, and optimize businesses across healthcare. Within its Growth Buyout strategy, Frazier has invested over $2.7 billion in 44 portfolio companies across 10 investment vehicles. Frazier’s core values are based in integrity, performance, perseverance, transparency, empowerment, and social impact, and all six values drive how Frazier operates as a firm. Keeler Investments About: We invest between $100,000 -250,000 into Founder, Pre-Seed and Seed rounds, with substantial reserve for follow on. We like to play a supportive and engaged role to help a company early in its life, with a particular focus on connecting our portfolio company's to leading later stage investors up and down the West Coast. Our primary focus is on software and services, both Enterprise and Consumer. That said, we have invested in non-software opportunities when the team and market present a compelling opportunity. We have recently begun investing in companies at the forefront of the "Environmental Economy" who are bringing new, sustainable and compelling solutions to the table. Voyager Capital About: Voyager Capital is a leading Pacific Northwest venture firm providing entrepreneurs with the resources, experience and connections to build successful technology companies. Voyager leads first venture round investments in software, analytics and cloud infrastructure startups, deploying the firm's domain expertise, go-to-market and team building resources help build market leaders. The firm has offices in Seattle, Washington and Portland, Oregon."​ Thesis: With a focus on investing in the modern economy through AI-driven business solutions, software-driven hardware, sustainable agriculture, and supply chain in the Pacific Northwest and Western Canada, we create a relationship with you early in your company’s lifecycle. We’re entrepreneur centric — so when we invest in your business, we invest in you. Our team is available, responsive and committed to you when and where you need it — from your very first venture round. The result is fast-tracked time to revenue with less capital. Tola Capital About: Tola Capital is a venture capital firm that invests globally in enterprise software companies across multiple stages. Thesis: We look for software companies with essential products for enterprise customers, a solid existing customer base, a strong competitive position, and great talent and culture. Tola Capital invests predominantly in early stage enterprise software companies. Ignition Partners About: Ignition Partners, a dedicated early-stage enterprise software venture capital firm, invests based on decades of operating experience and enterprise relationships. We have lived through the transitions from mainframe to mini to PC to cloud. We are the only firm operating with significant footprints in both Seattle and Silicon Valley, and our network has a global reach. Maveron About: Maveron funds seed and Series A companies that empower consumers to live on their terms. Based in SF and Seattle and invest coast-to-coast. Thesis: Maveron funds seed and Series A companies that empower consumers to live on their terms. Based in SF and Seattle and invest coast-to-coast. Founders’ Co-op About: Founders' Co-op is a seed-stage investment fund based in the Pacific Northwest. Thesis: We are proud supporters of the unique innovation ecosystem that thrives across the entire region and are on a mission to power and enable founders with that pioneer mentality. Seattle’s Fundraising Landscape Seattle’s fundraising landscape is dynamic and rich with opportunities, making it an attractive destination for early-stage startups seeking capital. The city's blend of established tech giants, a growing network of venture capital firms, and a culture of innovation create a supportive environment for entrepreneurs. Building Local Relationships Networking is a cornerstone of Seattle’s startup community. Founders can benefit from engaging in local events such as New Tech Seattle, TechCon 365, and more, which can be found on GeekWire. Accelerators like Techstars Seattle and the WTIA Founder Cohort Fund also provide structured opportunities to build relationships and gain valuable insights. Leverage Regional Expertise Many investors in Seattle focus on industries where the region excels, such as enterprise SaaS, e-commerce, AI, and clean energy. Startups aligning their pitches with these sectors can increase their chances of securing investment. Leveraging Seattle’s tech-driven identity can be a key differentiator for founders seeking funding. Understand Seattle's VC Landscape Seattle's VC ecosystem is heavily oriented towards early-stage investments, with firms like Madrona and Flying Fish Partners frequently backing local startups. However, many Seattle-based VCs also have strong connections to larger Silicon Valley firms, allowing startups to tap into broader networks for later-stage funding when scaling. Advantages for Fundraising and Running a Successful Startup in Seattle Talent Availability for Fundraising and Execution Seattle benefits from a deep pool of experienced founders and advisors, many of whom hail from leading companies like Amazon, Microsoft, and Zillow. These seasoned professionals often mentor and invest in local startups, offering valuable guidance and connections. The University of Washington also contributes significantly, providing a steady stream of tech-savvy talent and access to cutting-edge research, which is a key selling point for VCs. Strategic Focus Areas for Investors Seattle VCs often specialize in tech-heavy sectors such as SaaS, cloud computing, and machine learning, creating targeted funding opportunities for startups in these areas. Investors are also increasingly interested in sustainability, clean energy, and biotech, aligning with global market trends. Many funds emphasize mission-driven and socially responsible investments, reflecting the city’s progressive ethos. Cost-Effective Compared to Other Major Hubs While Seattle isn’t the cheapest city for startups, it remains more cost-effective than hubs like Silicon Valley. Lower operational costs allow founders to stretch funding further while maintaining high-quality operations. Seattle investors also tend to favor capital-efficient businesses with lean operations, aligning with the city’s pragmatic approach to entrepreneurship. Challenges Seattle Startups Might Face and How to Overcome Them Competition for Talent Seattle’s booming tech sector, anchored by giants like Amazon and Microsoft, creates intense competition for top talent. Startups can address this challenge by offering unique perks such as flexible work environments, equity opportunities, and a focus on mission-driven work that appeals to younger professionals. Engaging with university programs and internship pipelines, especially from the University of Washington, can also help startups attract emerging talent. Limited Late-Stage Funding While Seattle is strong in early-stage funding, later-stage capital can be harder to secure locally. Founders seeking growth-stage funding may need to build connections with Silicon Valley or East Coast investors. Attending national investor conferences, participating in cross-regional pitch events, and leveraging introductions from local early-stage investors can help bridge this gap. Navigating a Smaller Investment Pool While Seattle offers high-quality investors, the overall investment pool is smaller than larger hubs like New York or the Bay Area. To mitigate this, founders should focus on developing strong relationships with local investors and actively seek co-investment opportunities with out-of-state firms to diversify their funding sources. Connect With Investors in Seattle 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 Seattle 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.
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Fundraising
Top Venture Capital Firms in California Funding Startups
California is home to one of the most dynamic startup ecosystems in the world, attracting a diverse range of venture capital firms that support innovation across industries such as technology, healthcare, climate tech, and entertainment. From the global tech hub of Silicon Valley to the creative energy of Los Angeles and the biotech strength of San Diego, the state's VC landscape offers founders unparalleled access to capital, mentorship, and resources. In this article, we’ll highlight some of California's top venture capital firms. Top Venture Capitalists in California Silicon Valley 1. Khosla Ventures About: At KV, we fundamentally like large problems that are amenable to technology solutions. We seek out unfair advantages: proprietary and protected technological advances, business model innovations, unique approaches to markets, different partnerships, and teams who are passionate about a vision. Notable Investments: Square, DoorDash, Impossible Foods. 2. Redpoint Ventures About: Redpoint Ventures partners with visionary founders to create new markets or redefine existing ones at the seed, early and growth stages. Notable Investments: Netflix, Stripe, Snowflake. 3. Sapphire Ventures About: Sapphire Ventures is a venture capital firm that focuses on helping technology companies. Entrepreneurs build successful and lasting internet companies. We invest in all stages, all sectors in Asia, US and Israel. Notable Investments: LinkedIn, Box, Square. 4. Social Capital About: Social Capital’s mission is to build the future. We do this by identifying emerging technology trends, partnering with entrepreneurs that are trying to solve some of the world's hardest problems and help them build substantial commercial and economic outcomes. Our returns have placed us among the top technology investors in the world and act as a signal that we have generally been on the right track. Notable Investments: Slack, Box, Yammer. 5. Lightspeed Venture Partners About: Lightspeed Venture Partners is a multi-stage venture capital firm focused on accelerating disruptive innovations and trends in the Enterprise, Consumer, Health, and Fintech sectors. Notable Investments: Snapchat, Nest, Grubhub. 6. Benchmark Capital About: Benchmark Capital is focused on one, and only one, mission: to help talented entrepreneurs build great technology companies. That's what drives them and everything they do - from how they organize their firm to their investment strategy. Their investments range in size from as little as $100,000 to as much as $10 or $15 million. Typically, they invest $3 to $5 million initially and expect to invest $5 to $15 million over the life of a company. Notable Investments: eBay, Twitter, Uber, Instagram. 7. Greylock Partners About: This venture capital firm invests in all stages, exclusively in consumer and enterprise software companies. It led the Series B round for both Facebook and Linkedin. Notable Investments: LinkedIn, Airbnb, Dropbox. 8. Accel About: 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. Notable Investments: Facebook, Slack, Spotify. 9. GV (formerly Google Ventures) About: The VC arm of Alphabet (Google’s parent) investing in the fields of life science, healthcare, artificial intelligence, robotics, transportation, cyber security, and agriculture. It was the most active CVC in 2017. Notable Investments: Uber, Nest, Medium. 10. Menlo Ventures About: We are investors and company builders—we know what it takes to turn a budding idea into a scalable business. We work with early-stage founders to find product-market fit, develop go-to-market strategies, scale their organizations, and support them as they grow. Notable Investments: Uber, Roku, Siri. 11. Bessemer Venture Partners About: Bessemer Venture Partners is the world's most experienced early-stage venture capital firm. With a portfolio of more than 200 companies, Bessemer helps visionary entrepreneurs lay strong foundations to create companies that matter, and supports them through every stage of their growth. Notable Investments: LinkedIn, Shopify, Yelp. Los Angeles 12. Upfront Ventures About: We invest primary in the US but have a 20-year history of funding companies in Europe. Our managing partners (Yves Sisteron & Mark Suster) are both dual citizens of France & UK respectively. Kevin Zhang funds games companies and looks in Sweden, Finland, UK and beyond. And locally Julien Etaix is based in Paris and open to talking with anybody on the continent. Notable Investments: Ring, TrueCar, Maker Studios. 13. Act One Ventures About: Seed stage fund focused on enterprise software and research from LA Universities. We believe in community, diversity, and Los Angeles. Notable Investments: AuditBoard, Finix, Tapcart, Ordermark, Repeat. 14. LDR Ventures About: LDR is a VC firm based in Los Angeles investing In Female & Minority Founders, Consumer Product, Food, E-Comm, Marketplaces & Legal Tech Thesis: Female led and Los Angeles based, we consult to and invest primarily in female entrepreneurs at the Seed & Series A Stages. Notable Investments: Sweetgreen, Thrive Market, Court Buddy, junzi, LawChamps. 15. TenOneTen Ventures About: TenOneTen Ventures, a Los Angeles-based venture firm, invests in start-ups that apply data and technology to disrupt existing industries. Thesis: TenOneTen Ventures is a Los Angeles-based venture firm that invests in underlying technologies that transform major industries. Notable Investments: Mashgin, Tailscale, Alation, Procore, Scopely 16. Mucker Capital About: MuckerLab is a venture capital firm specializing in incubation, pre-seed, seed, start up, early stage and Series A investments. Thesis: We partner with exceptional entrepreneurs to provide their earliest institutional funding and work with them side-by-side to help launch and scale their new ventures. Notable Investments: Honey, ServiceTitan, Surf Air. San Diego 17. Tech Coast Angels About: Tech Coast Angels is the largest angel investor group in the United States, possessing more than 300 members in five networks in Los Angeles, Orange County, San Diego, Central Coast, and the Inland Empire. Its members provide funding and guidance to more early-stage, high-growth companies in Southern California than any other investment group. Notable Investments: Procore Technologies, Mindbody, Green Dot Corporation, Sandpiper Networks, TrueCar 18. Spark Growth Ventures About: Spark Growth Ventures is a community driven, early & mid stage, vertical-agnostic, technology venture capital firm. Our mission is to support gritty and exceptional founders in their missions by bringing forth the combined value of our strong community. We are fortunate to have a global network of entrepreneurs, C-level relationships, subject matter experts, world-class talent, institutional investors, high net worth individuals and family offices, many of who are investors in our platform. Our team has several decades of global experience in venture capital, entrepreneurship, innovation, executive & board management, functional leadership and advisory work. 19. Ganas Ventures About: Ganas Ventures invests in pre-seed and seed Web 2 and Web 3 community-driven startups in the US and Latin America. Thesis: Ganas Ventures invests in pre-seed and seed Web 2 and Web 3 community-driven startups in the US and Latin America. It's run by solo-GP Lolita Taub. ​​ 20. Lolita Taub About: Lolita Taub is the Chief of Staff and interim Head of Sales at Catalyte, and a 2x TEDx speaker, with a venture capital and enterprise tech background. She is also Scout at Indie.VC, an investor at NextGen Venture Partners, an LP at Operator Collective and Portfolia’s Enterprise Fund; and a former VC at Backstage Capital and K Fund. Lolita holds over a decade of enterprise B2B software, hardware, and services sales experience at IBM, Cisco Systems and in Silicon Valley. 21. Qualcomm Ventures About: Interested in anything wireless, but especially virtual reality, the internet of things, robotics, cloud, and wireless health. Sacramento 22. Impact Venture Capital About: Impact Venture Capital invests in early stage IT startups, with a focus on TMT, Civic Tech, Cyber Security, FinTech, and Data Analytics. Thesis: Early Stage with a focus on AI & AI applied 23. Black Angel Tech Fund About: Black Angel Tech Fund provides startup and early stage capital to companies. Thesis: Investing in next generation innovators. The Current Fundraising Climate in California California remains dominant in the startup ecosystem, attracting substantial venture capital (VC) investments across various sectors. The state's dynamic economy and culture of innovation continue to make it a prime destination for entrepreneurs seeking funding. Fundraising Trends in California In the second quarter of 2024, deal count and total capital raised increased significantly compared to the first quarter. 1,287 funding rounds culminated in $20.9 billion in investments, marking the highest amount of VC cash invested in any quarter over the past year. This uptick suggests a rebound in market activity, indicating that the first quarter may have represented the low point, with expectations for stabilization or further growth in subsequent quarters. Sectors Attracting the Most Investment Several industries in California are currently experiencing significant investor interest: Artificial Intelligence (AI): AI stands at the forefront, with startups in this sector receiving over $24 billion in funding to date. Advancements in generative AI, natural language processing, and machine learning applications are primary drivers of this investment surge. Healthcare and Health Tech: Startups in healthcare secured over $11 billion in the first quarter of 2024, focusing on telemedicine, digital health, and biotechnology. This sector's growth reflects a broader trend towards integrating technology with healthcare services. Biotechnology: Biotech companies continue to attract substantial investments, particularly those involved in research and development of innovative medical treatments and technologies. For instance, Arsenal Bio, a biotech firm, was among the top-funded startups in the third quarter of 2024. Climate Tech: Despite facing fundraising challenges due to high interest rates and delays in federal support, certain climate tech companies have managed to secure funding. However, the sector has seen some companies, like Moxion Power and SunPower, file for bankruptcy, highlighting the volatility and risks associated with this industry. Key Challenges and Opportunities in California's Fundraising Landscape Navigating the fundraising terrain in California presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities for startup founders. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for effectively securing capital and positioning your venture for success. Challenges Cost of Doing Business Expensive Ecosystem: Operating in California entails higher costs, including elevated expenses for rent, salaries, and general overhead. These financial demands can pressure startups to seek larger funding rounds to sustain operations. Intense Competition Among Startups High Volume of Startups: California's vibrant startup scene, particularly in hubs like Silicon Valley and Los Angeles, means founders must differentiate their ventures amidst a crowded and innovative market. High Bar for Entry: Venture capitalists in the state often have access to numerous promising startups, leading to stringent expectations regarding traction, team credentials, and product uniqueness. Focus on Metrics and Proof Points Data-Driven Decisions: Investors prioritize clear evidence of market traction, robust unit economics, and significant growth potential before committing funds. Expectations: Some investors may anticipate rapid growth trajectories or expansive market sizes, posing challenges for early-stage startups still refining their business models. Opportunities Access to World-Class Talent Diverse Workforce: California's status as a global tech hub attracts top-tier talent across various disciplines, including engineering, marketing, and design, providing startups with a rich pool of skilled professionals. Network Effects: The state's dense ecosystem of advisors, mentors, and specialized professionals fosters collaboration and accelerates growth for emerging companies. Proximity to Leading Tech Hubs Silicon Valley: As a global epicenter for innovation, Silicon Valley houses some of the world's most influential venture capitalists and tech companies, offering unparalleled access to resources and funding opportunities. Los Angeles: With a rapidly expanding startup ecosystem, Los Angeles excels in media, entertainment, and consumer technology sectors, providing niche opportunities for startups in these industries. San Diego: Renowned for its biotech and health tech innovations, San Diego offers specialized opportunities for startups in these sectors, supported by a strong network of research institutions and industry experts. Vibrant Startup Ecosystem Innovation Clusters: California boasts numerous accelerators, incubators, and co-working spaces that encourage collaboration and the exchange of ideas, fostering a supportive environment for startups. Networking Opportunities: Regular events such as pitch competitions, conferences, and meetups provide founders with direct access to investors and industry leaders, facilitating valuable connections. Diverse Investor Landscape Broad Spectrum of Investors: The state hosts a wide range of investors, from angel investors to large venture capital firms, enabling startups to find suitable funding partners at various growth stages. Focus on Disruption: California investors often seek bold, transformative ideas, making the region an ideal environment for startups with visionary goals aiming to challenge the status quo. Major Venture Capital Hubs in California California's expansive landscape hosts several prominent venture capital (VC) hubs with distinct characteristics and investment focuses. Understanding these regional nuances can help founders tailor their fundraising strategies effectively. Silicon Valley About: Silicon Valley is synonymous with technological innovation and entrepreneurship. It remains the epicenter of venture capital activity in the US, attracting significant VC investments. Investor Focus: Silicon Valley investors predominantly target technology-driven sectors, including software, hardware, artificial intelligence, and biotechnology. Firms such as Sequoia Capital and Andreessen Horowitz/ a16 are notable players in this region. Los Angeles About: Los Angeles has emerged as a thriving startup ecosystem, excelling in media, entertainment, and consumer technology. The city's diverse cultural landscape and proximity to the entertainment industry provide unique opportunities for startups in these sectors. Investor Focus: VCs in Los Angeles often concentrate on startups at the intersection of technology and entertainment, including digital media, gaming, and content creation platforms. The region also sees investments in e-commerce and health tech. San Diego About: San Diego is renowned for its strong biotechnology and life sciences sectors, supported by a robust network of research institutions and universities. This foundation has cultivated a specialized startup ecosystem focused on health tech and biotech innovations. Investor Focus: Investors in San Diego primarily seek opportunities in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and medical devices, leveraging the region's research capabilities and talent pool. Recent investments have been directed towards companies developing novel therapeutics and healthcare solutions. Sacramento About: As the state capital, Sacramento's startup scene is growing, focusing on sustainability, agriculture technology (AgTech), and government technology (GovTech). The city's proximity to state government agencies offers unique opportunities for startups in regulatory tech and public sector solutions. Investor Focus: VCs in Sacramento often focus on AgTech, clean energy, and GovTech startups, aligning with the region's economic strengths and policy landscape. Investments are geared towards companies addressing environmental challenges and enhancing governmental operations. Regional Differences in Investor Approach Deal Size and Stage: Silicon Valley typically sees larger deal sizes and a higher concentration of late-stage investments, reflecting the maturity of its startup ecosystem. In contrast, regions like Sacramento may have more early-stage funding opportunities, catering to nascent startups. Sector Specialization: While Silicon Valley maintains a broad tech focus, regions like San Diego exhibit deep specialization in biotech and Los Angeles in media and entertainment tech. Founders should align their sector focus with each region's strengths to attract suitable investors. Investment Philosophy: Investor expectations can vary by region. Silicon Valley investors may prioritize rapid scalability and disruptive potential, whereas investors in other regions might focus on sustainable growth and sector-specific innovations. Connect With Investors in California 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 California 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.
founders
Fundraising
Top Venture Capitalists in the United States
The United States has long been a global hub for innovation, driven by a thriving ecosystem of venture capital (VC) firms that empower startups to scale and succeed. From Silicon Valley to New York City, the nation's VCs provide more than just capital- they offer mentorship, strategic support, and vast networks that help founders navigate the complex journey of building world-class companies. This article spotlights some of the most active and influential venture capital firms in the US, each bringing unique philosophies and investment approaches to the table. Whether you're a founder seeking early-stage backing or a growth-stage startup looking for significant capital, understanding the strengths and focus areas of these firms can help you identify the right partners to fuel your entrepreneurial ambitions. Top Active VCs in the United States General Catalyst About: General Catalyst backs exceptional entrepreneurs who are building innovative technology companies and market leading businesses, including Airbnb, BigCommerce, ClassPass, Datalogix, Datto, Demandware, Gusto (fka ZenPayroll), The Honest Company, HubSpot, KAYAK, Oscar, Snap, Stripe, and Warby Parker. The General Catalyst team leverages its broad experience to help founders build extraordinary companies. General Catalyst has offices in Cambridge, MA, Palo Alto, CA and New York City. Sweetspot check size: $ 30M Thesis: General Catalyst is a venture capital firm that makes early-stage and growth equity investments. Andreessen Horowitz/ a16z About: Andreessen Horowitz was established in June 2009 by entrepreneurs and engineers Marc Andreessen and Ben Horowitz, based on their vision for a new, modern VC firm designed to support today's entrepreneurs. Andreessen and Horowitz have a track record of investing in, building and scaling highly successful businesses. Sweetspot check size: $ 25M Thesis: Historically, new models of computing have tended to emerge every 10–15 years: mainframes in the 60s, PCs in the late 70s, the internet in the early 90s, and smartphones in the late 2000s. Each computing model enabled new classes of applications that built on the unique strengths of the platform. For example, smartphones were the first truly personal computers with built-in sensors like GPS and high-resolution cameras. Applications like Instagram, Snapchat, and Uber/Lyft took advantage of these unique capabilities and are now used by billions of people. Tiger Global Management About: Tiger Global is an investment firm focused on public and private companies in the global Internet, software, consumer, and financial technology industries. Sweetspot check size: $ 50M Thesis: Our mission is to generate world-class investment returns over the long term. We aspire to do so in a way that makes our partners and portfolio companies proud, as we build a unique, global investment platform. SOSV About: SOSV is a venture capital firm providing multi-stage investment to develop and scale their founders' big ideas for positive change. Sequoia Capital About: Sequoia is a VC firm focused on energy, financial, enterprise, healthcare, internet, and mobile startups. Sweetspot check size: $ 15M Thesis: We partner early. We’re comfortable with the rough imperfection of a new venture. We help founders from day zero, when the DNA of their businesses first takes shape. Lightspeed Venture Partners About: Lightspeed Venture Partners is a multi-stage venture capital firm focused on accelerating disruptive innovations and trends in the Enterprise, Consumer, Health, and Fintech sectors. Sweetspot check size: $ 30M Thesis: The future isn’t built by dreamers. It’s built today, by doers. Index Ventures About: They are an international venture capital firm based in London, San Francisco and Geneva Sweetspot check size: $ 30M Thesis: 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. Greylock Partners About: This venture capital firm invests in all stages, exclusively in consumer and enterprise software companies. It led the Series B round for both Facebook and Linkedin Sweetspot check size: $ 30M Bessemer Venture Partners About: Bessemer Venture Partners is the world's most experienced early-stage venture capital firm. With a portfolio of more than 200 companies, Bessemer helps visionary entrepreneurs lay strong foundations to create companies that matter, and supports them through every stage of their growth. The firm has backed more than 120 IPOs, including Shopify, Yelp, LinkedIn, Skype, LifeLock, Twilio, SendGrid, DocuSign, Fiverr, Wix, and MindBody. Bessemer's 16 investing partners operate from offices in Silicon Valley, San Francisco, New York City, Boston, Israel, and India. Follow @BessemerVP and learn more at bvp.com. Sweetspot check size: $ 15M Kleiner Perkins About: Kleiner Perkins is a venture capital firm specializing in investing in early-stage, incubation, and growth companies. Sweetspot check size: $ 10M Thesis: To be the first call for founders who want to make history and to partner with them as company builders in pursuit of that goal. Accel About: 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. Sweetspot check size: $ 10M Thesis: We partner with exceptional founders with unique insights, from inception through all phases of growth. Union Square Ventures About: Union Square Ventures is a venture capital firm focused on early-stage, growth-capital, late stage, and startup financing. Thesis: USV backs trusted brands that broaden access to knowledge, capital, and well-being by leveraging networks, platforms, and protocols. Insight Partners About: Insight Partners is a global software investor partnering with high-growth technology, software, and Internet startup and ScaleUp companies that are driving transformative change in their industries. As of June 30, 2023, the firm has over $80B in regulatory assets under management. Insight Partners has invested in more than 800 companies worldwide and has seen over 55 portfolio companies achieve an IPO. Sweetspot check size: $ 50M Thesis: We support companies in good times, as well as challenging ones. Benchmark About: Benchmark Capital is focused on one, and only one, mission: to help talented entrepreneurs build great technology companies. That's what drives them and everything they do - from how they organize their firm to their investment strategy. Their investments range in size from as little as $100,000 to as much as $10 or $15 million. Typically, they invest $3 to $5 million initially and expect to invest $5 to $15 million over the life of a company. Sweetspot check size: $ 10M New Enterprise Associates About: New Enterprise Associates is a global venture capital firm investing in technology and healthcare. Sweetspot check size: $ 25M Options and Considerations for Founders Fundraising in the US The United States offers a diverse range of fundraising options for startups, each suited to different stages of growth, industries, and founder objectives. Understanding these options and the unique aspects of the US fundraising ecosystem can empower founders to make informed decisions and maximize their chances of success. Fundraising Options Venture Capital (VC) Overview: VC firms provide capital in exchange for equity, typically focusing on high-growth startups with the potential for significant returns. When to Consider: Ideal for startups with scalable business models and a proven product-market fit. Key Differences in the US: US VCs are known for their willingness to take risks on early-stage companies compared to many international investors. They also offer extensive support networks, including mentorship and resources. Related resource: Deal Flow: Understanding the Process in Venture Capital Angel Investors Overview: Individual investors who provide early-stage funding, often in exchange for convertible debt or equity. When to Consider: Best for startups in the pre-seed or seed stage looking for smaller funding rounds and strategic guidance. Key Differences in the US: US angel networks are highly organized, offering founders access to syndicates and platforms like AngelList, which streamline fundraising. Related resource: How to Effectively Find + Secure Angel Investors for Your Startup Crowdfunding Overview: Platforms like Kickstarter, Indiegogo, and Wefunder allow startups to raise funds from a broad audience. When to Consider: Suitable for consumer-facing products or startups seeking to validate demand while raising capital. Key Differences in the US: The US has a mature crowdfunding ecosystem, supported by regulations like the JOBS Act, which allows equity crowdfunding. Related resource: Understanding The 4 Types of Crowdfunding Grants and Government Funding Overview: Non-dilutive funding options provided by federal, state, or local governments for specific industries or initiatives. When to Consider: A great choice for startups in sectors like clean energy, healthcare, or technology innovation. Key Differences in the US: Programs like SBIR (Small Business Innovation Research) and STTR (Small Business Technology Transfer) are unique to the US, offering significant financial support without equity dilution. Revenue-Based Financing Overview: Startups receive capital in exchange for a percentage of future revenue until the investment is repaid. When to Consider: Ideal for startups with predictable revenue streams that want to avoid equity dilution. Key Differences in the US: Revenue-based financing is growing in popularity, with firms like Clearco and Pipe leading the way. Family Offices Overview: High-net-worth individuals or families investing directly in startups, often with flexible terms. When to Consider: Best for startups seeking large checks with fewer constraints than traditional VC funding. Key Differences in the US: Family offices in the US are highly active and often open to exploring niche industries or unconventional deals. Corporate Venture Capital (CVC) Overview: Investments from large corporations aiming to gain strategic benefits or insights into emerging markets. When to Consider: Suitable for startups aligned with the strategic interests of the investing corporation. Key Differences in the US: US CVCs, such as Pruven or JLL Spark, are some of the most active globally, often offering deep industry expertise and market access. Related resource: Corporate Venture Capital vs Traditional VCs: Key Differences and Benefits Key Considerations for US Fundraising Market Focus US investors tend to favor startups addressing large domestic or global markets. Founders should be prepared to demonstrate how their solution scales across diverse customer segments. Due Diligence Standards US fundraising often involves rigorous due diligence. Founders should ensure their financials, legal structures, and growth metrics are well-documented and readily available. Networking and Warm Introductions Personal connections carry significant weight in the US fundraising ecosystem. Leveraging networks, attending industry events, and securing warm introductions can substantially increase success rates. Cultural Fit US investors often prioritize founder-investor alignment on vision, values, and long-term goals. Open communication and transparency are crucial for building trust. Connect with Investors in the US 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 and find a filtered list of US 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.
founders
Fundraising
The Top 10 VC Firms for Startups in the Greater New York Area
New York has cemented its position as one of the world's leading hubs for venture capital (VC). While Silicon Valley and Boston are often top-of-mind for startups, New York offers a distinct and thriving ecosystem for founders seeking investment. Its diversity, both in terms of industries and the range of available investors, makes it an ideal place for startups at any stage- whether you're pre-seed or scaling to Series D. Key Sectors for VC Investment in New York Investors in New York typically focus on industries that leverage the city's global influence, deep talent pools, and unique market dynamics. Prominent sectors include: FinTech: As the financial capital of the world, New York is home to numerous FinTech startups and investors looking to disrupt traditional banking, payments, and insurance systems. HealthTech: The region's robust healthcare networks and top-tier research institutions foster innovations in digital health, biotechnology, and patient management. Media and Entertainment: With a strong presence of media conglomerates, New York attracts startups in content creation, streaming platforms, and ad tech. Enterprise SaaS: Serving businesses worldwide, many VC-backed startups in New York develop software solutions for workflow optimization, data analytics, and cybersecurity. E-Commerce and Consumer Tech: With a consumer-driven market, startups in fashion, lifestyle, and food tech find fertile ground here. Advantages of Fundraising in New York Fundraising in New York offers several advantages: Proximity to Corporations and Markets: With Fortune 500 companies, major financial institutions, and a high concentration of global headquarters, startups can easily find strategic partnerships and early customers. Diverse Investment Landscape: New York's VC ecosystem includes a mix of generalist and specialist firms, angel investors, family offices, and accelerators. Founders can find support regardless of their industry or growth stage. Access to Talent: The city's reputation as a melting pot ensures access to a skilled workforce spanning technical, creative, and operational disciplines. A Dynamic Ecosystem: Events, pitch competitions, and startup accelerators provide platforms for networking, mentorship, and exposure to investors. Startup Landscape in the Greater New York Area While New York City often takes center stage in conversations about startups and venture capital, the greater New York area is seeing a surge in activity as emerging tech hubs make their mark. Areas like Long Island, Westchester County, the Hudson Valley, and even parts of New Jersey and Connecticut are becoming increasingly attractive for startups and investors. These regions offer unique advantages that complement the city's fast-paced environment, making the greater New York area a diverse and dynamic ecosystem for innovation. Emerging Tech Hubs to Watch Long Island Known for its proximity to top research institutions like Stony Brook University, Long Island nurtures startups in biotech, renewable energy, and advanced manufacturing. The area also boasts lower operational costs than Manhattan, appealing to early-stage companies. Westchester County With a strong emphasis on HealthTech and MedTech, Westchester benefits from its proximity to healthcare giants and research hospitals. Startups in this region often leverage access to specialized talent and partnerships with major industry players. Hudson Valley Recognized for its growing focus on sustainable agriculture, clean energy, and artisanal food production, the Hudson Valley is attracting mission-driven startups. The region's picturesque setting and collaborative communities draw founders seeking a balance between innovation and lifestyle. Northern New Jersey Cities like Hoboken, Jersey City, and Newark are experiencing a tech boom fueled by their proximity to NYC, affordable office space, and access to talent from nearby universities like Rutgers and NJIT. FinTech, logistics tech, and consumer startups are thriving here. Connecticut’s Gold Coast Towns like Stamford and Greenwich are becoming hubs for FinTech and enterprise software companies. With a high concentration of financial firms and venture funds, startups benefit from capital access and networking opportunities. What Attracts Startups and Investors to These Areas? Cost Efficiency: Compared to Manhattan, the greater New York area offers more affordable office space and living costs. This particularly appeals to bootstrapped startups and early-stage companies aiming to extend their runway. Talent Pools: The presence of top universities and research centers in these regions ensures a steady pipeline of skilled graduates and experienced professionals. Infrastructure and Connectivity: Proximity to New York City provides startups with easy access to the city’s resources, clients, and investors while allowing them to operate in a less competitive, more collaborative environment. The NYC Impact on Regional Startups Proximity to New York City remains critical for startups in the greater New York area. NYC serves as an anchor, offering: Access to Capital: Many venture capital firms headquartered in Manhattan actively scout for investment opportunities in surrounding areas. Networking Opportunities: Regular events, conferences, and accelerators centered in NYC provide startups with a platform to connect with peers, mentors, and investors. Customer Base: The city’s dense population and status as a global business hub offer startups a vast and diverse market to test and scale their products. The Top Ten VCs in the Greater New York Area Armory Square Ventures About: We are a seed and early stage venture capital firm based in Upstate NY and NYC. We focus on opportunities where we can combine our capital with our networks to help talented entrepreneurs build world-class businesses. Traction metrics requirements: No min. revenue requirement, Addressable markets of at least $500M, Full-time technical/product leader and sales/marketing leader, Prototype of product deployed with a small sample size of customers (even if piloting); capital efficient Thesis: We are entrepreneurs ourselves and seek those as passionate as we are about changing the world through new business. Tech Council Ventures About: Tech Council Ventures is a venture fund investing in early and expansion stage companies across all industries in the US Mid-Atlantic region. The fund invests $500K to $3M initially and provides additional support throughout the growth of the business. Tech Council Ventures’ principals all have 20+ years investing and building promising, rapid growth companies. The fund is affiliated with one of the largest and most active technology councils in the US, TechUnited:NJ, providing for its portfolio investments an unmatched network of customer, key team recruits, business partner and service provider connections. Canaan Partners About: Canaan Partners invests more than money in a company—they invest their time, experience, knowledge, connections and team-oriented approach. They place tremendous value on creating working partnerships with entrepreneurs and management teams who have the character and the drive to succeed. Prominent among Canaan's resources is the breadth of operating, managerial and financial experience. Harmony Partners About: Harmony Partners is a highly differentiated venture capital firm that makes expansion stage investments in high growth software, internet and tech-enabled companies. By eliminating the typical deal constraints of traditional growth equity firms around minimum check sizes and ownership percentages, Harmony fills a gap in the market. Founded in New York City in 2010 and investing globally, our team has deployed more than $1 billion in over 100 technology companies over the past 25 years. Primary About: Primary Venture Partners (previously High Peaks) is a seed stage VC firm based in NY, focused on ecommerce and enterprise SaaS. Sweetspot check size: $ 3M Thesis: Unparalleled experience, resources and networks to help New York’s most promising founders build market-defining companies. New York Venture Partners About: New York Venture Partners is a seed stage venture capital firm dedicated to the entrepreneur. Sweetspot check size: $ 25K Thesis: We are all about the entrepreneur's success. The Helm About: The Helm is a New York City-based early-stage venture firm investing in game-changing companies founded by women. By investing in female-founded and underfunded technology-enabled companies, greater social and financial returns can be realized. Thesis: We believe that innovation is not gender-specific, so we do not accept that 97.5 percent of the most valuable capital supporting innovation should go to male founders only. It is imperative that female voices have a role in creating the companies, technologies, and systems that will shape our future. Runway Venture Partners About: Runway Venture Partners is a New York City-based early stage venture capital firm focused on investing in post product-market fit SaaS and software-enabled businesses. Sweetspot check size: $ 750K Traction metrics requirements: $50k MRR Thesis: B2B SaaS Lytical Ventures About: Lytical Ventures is a New York City-based venture firm investing in Corporate Intelligence, comprising cybersecurity, data analytics, and artificial intelligence. Lytical’s professionals have decades of experience in direct investing generally and in Corporate Intelligence specifically. Company Ventures About: Company Ventures is a NYC-based, seed-stage venture firm. We believe deeply in the power of being in good company while building the future. For the better part of a decade, via our various programs and investing activity, we have formed a community of exceptional founders building great companies the right way, providing each the ideal environment in which to build with no strings attached. We invest across industries, but have a focus on digital health, fintech, and enterprise software. If you're interested in working with us, please drop us a line or connect with us on social media. Sweetspot check size: $ 750K 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: Exploring the Top 10 Venture Capital Firms in New York City in 2024 Related resource: 12 New York City Angel Investors to Maximize Your Funding Potential
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Top 10 Growing Tech Hubs Transforming Latin America in 2025
Latin America's tech hubs are leading a wave of transformation, driven by innovation and a surge in global investment. From the fintech powerhouse of São Paulo to Santiago’s strides in clean energy, these cities are shaping the future of technology in the region. For founders seeking to tap into these growing ecosystems, opportunities for funding, talent, and growth are abundant. Discover how these hubs are positioning Latin America as a force in global innovation. Discover VCs investing in LATAM on our Connect investor database. Related resource: 7 Best Venture Capital Firms in Latin America in 2024 1. São Paulo, Brazil São Paulo is the largest and most dynamic tech hub in Brazil, serving as the heart of Latin America's innovation ecosystem. With a massive market, supportive infrastructure, and increasing international investment, São Paulo offers a fertile ground for startups and established tech companies alike. Key Sectors: Fintech: São Paulo is a fintech powerhouse, hosting numerous startups that are revolutionizing digital banking, payments, and financial services. E-commerce: The city's vast consumer base drives the growth of online retail platforms and logistics innovation. Healthtech: Innovations in telemedicine, healthcare access, and medical technology are thriving. Agritech: Advanced agricultural technology solutions help optimize Brazil's significant agricultural output. Notable Startups and Companies: Nubank: One of the world's largest digital banks, Nubank has reshaped financial services with its user-friendly banking solutions. MercadoLibre: The e-commerce giant dominates online retail in Latin America and continues to expand its fintech services. Gympass: A global platform offering corporate wellness solutions, Gympass connects employees to fitness options worldwide. Creditas: A leading digital lending platform providing secured loans and financial solutions to consumers. Top VCs in São Paulo, Brazil: Check out the full list of VCs located in São Paulo, Brazil. 1. Canary Ventures About: Canary provides the first venture capital round, seed or Series A, to tech companies that operate in Brazil. We are an entrepreneur-friendly and well-connected partner that will be by your side, helping in impactful matters, as your startup takes off. 2. Valor Capital Group About: Valor Capital Group is the pioneer cross-border Venture Fund operating at the intersection between innovation & regulation and technology & innovation and bridging the US, Latin American and Global technology markets. 3. Monashees About: The firm serves entrepreneurs starting with their very first movements, supporting their growth through its expansion funds. With a human-values-first approach, monashees helps founders challenge the status quo and improve people’s lives through technology. 4. Redpoint eVentures About: Redpoint eventures, the first Silicon Valley fund on the ground in Brazil, focuses on early-stage internet investments. 5. Bossanova Investimentos About: Bossanova is the most active VC in Latin America ; We invest in startups at the pre-seed stage; B2B or B2B2C companies with scalable and digital business models that are operating and making money. 2. Mexico City, Mexico Mexico City has solidified its status as a leading tech hub in Latin America, often referred to as the "Silicon Valley of Latin America.". Mexico City stands out as a vibrant tech hub strategically positioned for growth in Latin America. Its large population, expanding middle class, and proximity to the U.S. create a thriving ecosystem for innovation. Key Sectors: Fintech: Mexico City is a leading fintech hub, with over 200 startups securing more than $600 million in venture funding, accounting for over 20% of venture funding in the country. E-commerce: The city's vast consumer market has led to the rise of successful e-commerce platforms. Software Development: A growing pool of tech talent supports a robust software development industry. Notable Startups and Companies: Kavak: A used-car marketplace that has become one of Mexico's prominent startups. Clip: A fintech company simplifying digital payments, contributing significantly to financial inclusion. Bitso: A cryptocurrency exchange platform facilitating digital asset transactions in Latin America. Albo: A neobank offering digital banking solutions to Mexican consumers. Top VCs in Mexico City, Mexico: Check out the full list of VCs located in Mexico City. 1. COMETA About: COMETA is a venture capital firm that invests in early-stage technology companies targeting Spanish speaking markets. Thesis: The first fund, VARIV I, which started making investments in 2013, was focused on e-commerce and its enablers, namely, payments and logistics. Over 10 investments were made in those categories expanding the geographic scope from Latin America to Spain. In 2015, the Firm raised a second fund, VARIV II, to capture the emerging opportunities in fintech, marketplaces, and first-generation enterprise businesses founded by local entrepreneurs. Pepe Bolaños, who joined the Firm as Principal in 2014, became Partner in 2017. Throughout the four-year investment period, sixteen companies were added to the firm’s portfolio and the scope broadened to include the US. 2. Jaguar Ventures About: Jaguar Ventures is a venture capital firm that seeks to invest in firms operating in the technology sector. Traction metrics requirements: Companies should have at least US$50k in monthly revenues, growing at more than 10% per month. Thesis: Focused on early stage ventures in Latin America. 3. Hi Ventures About: Hi Ventures invests in Latin American founders and is an early-stage venture capital fund based in Mexico. Thesis: Hi’s investment thesis participates deeply and actively in the Fintech, Future of Commerce, Human Capital and Smart Cities sectors, which are all experiencing a strong acceleration shift at a regional level.Across four portfolios, the fund has invested in 40+ innovative and successful companies led by founders who share our vision to democratize access to services and fix large inefficient industries throughout the region. 4. Smart Impact About: Smart Impact is a launching platform for hardware and circular economy startups that use technology and the internet to create meaningful change. Thesis: At Smart Impact you will discover, develop, experiment, prototype, test and launch your business. 5. Dalus Capital About: Investing in the best entrepreneurs developing scalable solutions for significant problems in LATAM. Sweetspot check size: $ 4M Traction metrics requirements: We are focused on early-stage financing rounds, in startups that have a validated product and client traction. Thesis: Dalus Capital invests in tech companies with scalable solutions to address significant problems in Latin America, in four investment themes: Inclusion (Fintech, Edtech, Healthtech, HRtech), Climate Innovation, Business Productivity (SaaS, etc.) and Digital Consumer (D2C, marketplaces). 3. Buenos Aires Buenos Aires stands as Argentina's premier tech hub, renowned for its rich talent pool, entrepreneurial spirit, and significant investment growth. The city accounts for more than 50% of the country's tech startups, with over 3,000 startups calling Buenos Aires home. Key Sectors: Software Development: Buenos Aires is a major player in the LATAM software development industry, featuring more than 50,000 software developers. Agtech: The city is home to numerous startups and investors focusing on agricultural technology, contributing to the sector's growth in Argentina. Blockchain: Buenos Aires hosts a vibrant blockchain community, with companies like Ripio leading the way in digital finance platforms. Notable Startups and Companies: Mercado Libre: Founded in Buenos Aires, MercadoLibre is the largest e-commerce platform in Latin America, with 668 million visits per month across 18 countries. Ualá: A fintech company based in Buenos Aires, Ualá offers a mobile banking app and has over five million users across Argentina, Mexico, and Colombia. Globant: A global IT and software development company headquartered in Buenos Aires, Globant provides services to clients like Google and Spotify. Top VCs in Buenos Aires: Check out the full list of VCs located in Buenos Aires. 1. Kaszek Ventures About: Kaszek is a venture capital firm that partners with exceptional entrepreneurs to build lasting, high-impact technology-based companies whose main focus is Latin America. In addition to capital, Kaszek offers significant strategic guidance, hands-on operational support and access to local and international networks. The firm is industry and stage agnostic, investing mainly in seed, series A and series B. Thesis: Our core is technology: We are big believers in the fabulous impact that new technologies can have over humankind. Therefore, we invest in any industry where technology and innovation, in any form, offer a chance of significant disruption and value creation. So far, we have invested in industries such as financial services, education, healthcare, ecommerce, marketplaces, enterprise software, and SaaS, among others. 2. NXTP Ventures About: NXTP Ventures backs early-stage technology companies led by extraordinary entrepreneurs throughout Latin America. Sweetspot check size: $ 1M Thesis: We predominately invest in B2B companies in pre-seed stage and seed-stage companies, usually becoming the first institutional check into the business. We also invest at the Series A stage, although a little less frequently. Our typical check size for Seed rounds ranges from $500k to $3M USD and we like to lead or co-lead rounds. Sometimes, we invest as followers with a lower initial check, but with the optionality to invest more later on. For Series A investments, the typical investment size ranges from $2-5M. 4. Bogotá, Colombia Bogotá is rapidly establishing itself as a key player in Latin America’s tech ecosystem, driven by a combination of supportive government policies, a thriving startup culture, and a robust educational framework. With initiatives like the Ministry of Information and Communication Technologies (Ministry of ICT) promoting digital transformation and innovation, the city fosters an environment where fintech, healthtech, and edtech startups can flourish. This synergy between public and private sectors, combined with a skilled talent pool and increasing investor interest, positions Bogotá as a hub for technological advancement and entrepreneurship. Key Sectors: Fintech: The city is home to a growing number of fintech startups focusing on financial inclusion and digital banking solutions. Healthtech: Innovations in healthcare technology are improving patient care and access to medical services. Edtech: Educational technology companies are enhancing learning experiences and accessibility. Notable Startups and Companies: Rappi: A leading on-demand delivery platform that has expanded its services across Latin America. Platzi: An online education platform offering courses in technology and business, aiming to upskill the Latin American workforce. Laika: An e-commerce platform specializing in pet care products and services, showcasing innovation in niche markets. Top VCs in Bogotá, Colombia: Check out the full list of VCs located in Bogotá, Colombia. 1. Polymath Ventures About: Polymath Ventures is a Digital Venture Group that builds from scratch and scales disruptive tech ventures for Latin America's middle class. 5. Guadalajara, Mexico Guadalajara has established itself as a leading technology hub through a strong emphasis on innovation, talent development, and international collaborations. The city's transformation into a tech powerhouse has been driven by a combination of government initiatives, educational excellence, and the presence of global tech giants. Key Sectors: Electronics: Guadalajara is a major producer of electronic components, contributing significantly to Mexico's electronics exports. The city hosts manufacturing and R&D facilities for companies like Intel and Jabil. Software Development: With a large pool of skilled software developers and engineers, Guadalajara has become a hub for software design and IT services, attracting companies such as IBM and Oracle. Internet of Things (IoT): The city fosters innovation in IoT, with startups and established firms developing cutting-edge solutions in this rapidly growing field. Notable Startups and Companies: Kueski: A prominent fintech startup based in Guadalajara, Kueski provides online loans, offering financial services to underserved populations in Mexico. Wizeline: A global product development company with a significant presence in Guadalajara, Wizeline partners with businesses to build high-quality software solutions. Intel: Maintaining a substantial operation in Guadalajara, Intel focuses on research and development, contributing to the city's status as a tech innovation center. Top VCs in Guadalajara, Mexico: Check out the full list of VCs located in Guadalajara, Mexico. 1. Poligono Capital About: We invest in early-stage startups to develop possibilities for success through technology. Non-bank financial organization that believes in exponential capital growth through portfolio diversification and innovative vision. 2. Redwood Ventures About: Mexican venture capital fund, industry agnostic, investing in technology-based startups. Sweetspot check size: $ 200K Traction metrics requirements: Not a static number but products or services that already have product/market fit defined as a growing user base and revenues Thesis: Founded in 2017, Redwood Ventures is a venture capital fund, based in Mexico. The firm focuses primarily in seed, early-stage, and Series A investments in high-impact tech companies. The firm seeks to invest in companies that are based in North America 3. Arancia International About: In addition to our operating companies, we seek to invest in sectors that we consider to have growth potential, technology and those related to our area of ​​interest. For this reason, we have investments in various companies with high potential and international prestige. 6. Santiago, Chile The Chilean government's proactive approach, exemplified by initiatives like Start-Up Chile, has been instrumental in fostering this environment. Launched in 2010, Start-Up Chile is a seed accelerator that has supported over 3,000 startups from more than 85 countries, providing equity-free funding and a robust support network. Key Sectors: The Chilean fintech ecosystem comprises approximately 179 startups, representing a 60% increase since 2019, driven by government efforts to position the country as a fintech hub. Agritech: Agriculture remains a cornerstone of Chile's economy, and Santiago hosts numerous agritech startups innovating to improve yields and combat climate change. Technologies such as drones, artificial intelligence, and nanobubbles are being utilized to revolutionize the agricultural sector. Clean Energy: Chile's commitment to renewable energy is evident, with 45% of the country's electricity generation coming from renewable sources, including over 19% from solar photovoltaic. This focus on clean energy has spurred the growth of related technologies and startups in Santiago. Notable Startups and Companies: Betterfly: A prominent fintech startup offering a platform that combines insurance, wellness, and social impact, incentivizing healthy habits among users. Instacrops: An agritech company providing a virtual assistant that allows farmers to monitor their fields in real-time, optimizing water usage, fertilizers, and detecting pests, thereby enhancing crop yields. INTI-TECH: A clean energy startup specializing in autonomous, water-free cleaning solutions for photovoltaic plants, improving the efficiency and maintenance of solar panels. Top VCs in Santiago, Chile: Check out the full list of VCs located in Santiago, Chile. 1. Taram Capital About: We invest in teams that are transforming their industries with B2B technological solutions for SMEs and large companies, with an emphasis on SaaS and the eCommerce, Fintech, Data Driven Solutions and Web3 sectors. We focus on early-stage companies, investing in Late Seed and Series A, in startups with a presence in Chile and international projections, whose solutions address cross-cutting problems faced by companies around the world. Thesis: We invest in founders from the Andean Region (Chile, Peru, Colombia & Ecuador) leading early-stage B2B recurrent revenue companies with $0.5M - $4M ARR, primarily vertical SaaS implementing digitalization, AI and Web3 related applications. 2. Start-Up Chile About: Start-Up is a public startup accelerator created by the Chilean Government for global entrepreneurs to bootstrap their startups. 3. Impacta VC About: We help impact startups fulfill their purpose. At Impacta VC we invest in Impact Startups, which with the help of Mentors and our Co-investors grow to raise their next round of capital. Thesis: We invest in impact startups in Latin America. Impacta VC launched a U$10MM Seed Fund in the US to fund tech companies aligned with the SDGs across LATAM that leverage the partner’s network of top regional founders and VCs to achieve future financing rounds in the impact space. 7. Lima, Peru Lima's tech ecosystem is experiencing significant growth, characterized by a strong entrepreneurial spirit and expanding infrastructure that supports innovation. The city's startup scene is thriving, attracting investors and talent from across the region. Key Sectors: Edtech: Lima has become a hub for educational technology, with startups like Crehana offering online courses to upskill the Latin American workforce. Fintech: The fintech sector is leading the way in investment, accounting for 58% of total investments in 2025. Startups such as Rextie provide secure and convenient currency exchange services. Logistics Technology: Startups like Chazki are developing innovative solutions to improve logistics and delivery services in the region. Notable Startups and Companies: Crehana: An online education platform offering courses to upskill the Latin American workforce. Rextie: A fintech company providing secure and convenient currency exchange services. Chazki: A logistics startup optimizing delivery services with efficient technology solutions. 8. Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic Santo Domingo is rapidly emerging as a significant tech hub in the Caribbean, leveraging its strategic location and a strong emphasis on digital transformation. The city's proximity to major markets and its commitment to technological advancement have fostered a conducive environment for innovation and entrepreneurship. Key Sectors: Fintech: The Dominican Republic's fintech sector has experienced significant growth, with the number of fintech companies increasing from 6 in 2018 to 65 by 2024. This expansion positions the country as the eighth largest fintech ecosystem in Latin America and the leader in Central America and the Caribbean. Tourism Tech: Given the Dominican Republic's robust tourism industry, there is a growing focus on integrating technology to enhance tourist experiences and streamline operations within the sector. Innovations in this area aim to boost the country's appeal as a premier travel destination. Software Development: Santo Domingo boasts a growing tech scene with many skilled developers. The city has an impressive number of developers, and, according to the EF EPI Index, their English proficiency ranks 55 out of 113 countries. Notable Startups and Companies: AlterEstate: Provides a comprehensive cloud platform designed to streamline operations for real estate agencies, enhancing sales and property management efficiency. TagShelf: Offers an innovative AI platform that automates repetitive tasks, enabling businesses to streamline their operations by intelligently identifying and classifying various document types without human intervention. Uepa Pay: Provides an online payment management platform with a versatile API for seamless integration with various e-commerce platforms, simplifying transactions and streamlining operations for businesses. 9. Montevideo, Uruguay Montevideo has emerged as a leading tech hub in Latin America, renowned for its political stability, innovation-friendly policies, and rapidly expanding technology sector. The city's strategic location and supportive business environment have attracted startups and established tech companies, fostering a vibrant innovation ecosystem. Key Sectors: Fintech: Uruguay's fintech industry has experienced remarkable growth, with the number of fintech companies increasing from 6 in 2018 to 65 by 2024. This expansion positions the country as the eighth-largest fintech ecosystem in Latin America and the leader in Central America and the Caribbean. Agtech: Leveraging its strong agricultural heritage, Montevideo has become a hub for agtech innovation, with startups developing solutions that integrate technology into agriculture to enhance productivity and sustainability. Gaming: The city's creative industries, including video game development, have gained international recognition, contributing to Montevideo's reputation as a diverse and dynamic tech hub. Notable Startups and Companies: dLocal: A fintech company providing payment solutions for emerging markets, dLocal became Uruguay's first unicorn in 2020 and went public on NASDAQ in 2021, reflecting the country's growing fintech sector. Bankingly: Founded in 2015, Bankingly offers digital banking channels for financial institutions, enabling them to improve customer experience and expand their digital services. MooveIt: A software engineering company specializing in the design, development, and implementation of technology applications across various sectors, including education, health, fintech, entertainment, and telecommunications. 10. Medellín, Colombia Medellín has transformed into a prominent tech hub in Latin America, driven by strategic investments in innovation and a commitment to technological advancement. The city's focus on sectors such as healthtech, the Internet of Things (IoT), and artificial intelligence (AI) has been instrumental in this growth. Key Sectors: Healthtech: The healthtech sector in Colombia has experienced significant growth in recent years. As of 2023, Colombia hosts approximately 25 digital health startups, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.6% from 2019 to 2024. Internet of Things (IoT): Medellín hosts a passionate tech community focused on advancing the IoT ecosystem. Organizations like IoT Medellín promote learning, collaboration, and innovation in data-driven technologies. Artificial Intelligence (AI): In September 2024, the World Economic Forum announced the establishment of a Centre for the Fourth Industrial Revolution in Medellín. This center aims to position the city as a leading AI innovation hub, fostering collaboration among business, government, and civil society to develop inclusive and sustainable AI strategies. Notable Startups and Companies: La Haus: An online real estate marketplace that has attracted significant investment, including a US$100 million funding round in 2021, co-led by Acrew Capital and Renegade Partners. Tributi: A Y-Combinator-backed fintech company headquartered in Medellín, automating tax filing for individuals in Latin America and offering curated financial services based on user data. Sempli: A fintech startup providing financial solutions to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Colombia. In 2022, Sempli secured investment from CAF, reflecting confidence in Medellín's growing fintech ecosystem. Connect with LATAM Startup Investors with Visible Latin America's emerging tech hubs are driving innovation across sectors like fintech, healthtech, agritech, and more. Each hub benefits from a dynamic ecosystem supported by government policies, talent pools, and investor interest. To connect with the right investors in each city, leverage Visible’s Connect investor database. Simplify your fundraising journey and discover VCs ready to back your startup's growth. Building and nurturing strong investor relationships is crucial for your startup’s success. With Visible, you can streamline your investor updates, manage fundraising, and maintain clear communication with your stakeholders—all in one place. Give it a free try for 14 days here. Related resource: 14 FinTech Startups Shaping the Future of Finance Related resource: The Top VCs Investing in Community Driven Companies
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