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Founded in 2016 by Andrew Chung, 1955 Capital is a venture capital firm based in the United States. The firm launched with a $200 million first close and has since focused on investing in advanced technologies that address significant global challenges, including climate change, food safety, and healthcare access. Andrew Chung, a former general partner at Khosla Ventures, leads the firm, which has grown to a team of six members with diverse expertise, including several Ph.D. holders.
1955 Capital has established itself as a key player in the venture capital space, particularly in sectors that are often overlooked by mainstream investors. The firm has a portfolio of 12 companies and has achieved top-quartile performance since its inception. Notable milestones include significant investments in companies like Nature's Fynd and LanzaTech, which exemplify the firm's commitment to sustainability and innovation.
1955 Capital invests across several high-impact sectors, including energy, healthcare, climate, and food-agtech. The firm targets pre-seed, seed, Series A, and growth equity stages, with check sizes typically ranging from $5 million to $10 million. Their investment strategy emphasizes technologies that can significantly reduce climate change impacts, enhance healthcare access, and ensure food safety and sustainability.
The firm’s focus on sustainability is evident in its investment themes, which include reducing climate change-related disasters, improving healthcare delivery through innovative solutions, and ensuring safe food supplies. 1955 Capital seeks to partner with founders who are developing advanced technologies that align with these themes, particularly those that can scale and create meaningful impact.
1955 Capital's portfolio includes 12 companies, with notable investments in:
These companies exemplify the firm's commitment to investing in sustainable innovations that address critical global challenges. Nature's Fynd has gained recognition for its unique approach to food production, while LanzaTech's technology has positioned it as a leader in carbon recycling.
Andrew Chung - Founder and CEO. Andrew has a background as a former General Partner at Khosla Ventures, where he managed a significant AUM. He has also worked at Lightspeed Ventures and holds a degree from Stanford University.
Euan Thomson, Ph.D. - Team Member. Euan brings expertise in advanced technologies and sustainability, contributing to the firm's investment strategy.
Vijit Sabnis, Ph.D. - Team Member. Vijit specializes in technology development and has a strong background in research and innovation.
Dorian Merritt - Team Member. Dorian's experience spans various sectors, enhancing the firm's operational capabilities.
Yumin Liu - Team Member. Yumin focuses on market analysis and strategic planning, supporting portfolio companies in their growth journeys.
Jessie Zhan, Ph.D. - Team Member. Jessie contributes her research expertise to evaluate potential investments and support portfolio companies.
Addie Harris - Team Member. Addie plays a key role in operational support and strategic initiatives within the firm.
To pitch to 1955 Capital, founders should visit their website at 1955 Capital. It is important to include a comprehensive overview of the technology, market potential, and alignment with the firm's focus on sustainability. A well-structured deck that outlines the business model, competitive landscape, and growth strategy is essential. Response times may vary, but founders should expect to hear back within a few weeks.
In 2021, 1955 Capital led a significant investment in Nature's Fynd, contributing approximately $50 million to their Series A round. The company later raised $350 million in a Series C round, showcasing its growth and market potential.
Additionally, LanzaTech announced an IPO at a $2.2 billion valuation, marking a notable exit for 1955 Capital and highlighting the firm's successful investment strategy.
What are 1955 Capital's investment criteria?
1955 Capital focuses on advanced technologies that address significant global challenges in sectors such as energy, healthcare, climate, and food safety. They typically invest in companies at the pre-seed, seed, Series A, and growth equity stages, with check sizes ranging from $5 million to $10 million.
How can I apply or pitch to 1955 Capital?
Founders can pitch their ideas through the firm's website at 1955 Capital. It is advisable to provide a clear overview of the technology, market potential, and how it aligns with the firm's focus on sustainability.
What makes 1955 Capital different from other venture firms?
1955 Capital emphasizes investments in sustainability-focused technologies that mainstream VCs often overlook. Their commitment to high-impact themes and their expertise in advanced technologies set them apart in the venture capital landscape.
What is the geographic scope of 1955 Capital's investments?
The firm primarily invests in the United States, focusing on companies that are addressing local and global challenges through innovative solutions.
What is 1955 Capital's post-investment involvement like?
1955 Capital adds value to its portfolio companies by providing strategic guidance, leveraging industry connections, and supporting growth and scalability. Their team has diverse expertise that can assist in various operational aspects.
What is the fund size and performance of 1955 Capital?
The firm launched with a $200 million fund and has achieved top-quartile performance since its inception, indicating strong returns on their investments.
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