Discover if this is a suitable investor for your startup. If they are we'll make a warm introduction for free. Otherwise, we'll connect you with matching investors.
1kx is a venture capital firm founded in 2018, headquartered in the United States, with a strong focus on blockchain technologies. The firm has raised a total of $275 million across two funds, positioning itself as a significant player in the early-stage investment landscape. 1kx operates globally, targeting investments in the United States and other markets, and has built a diverse portfolio of over 150 active companies.
Since its inception, 1kx has aimed to create breakthrough opportunities in the blockchain sector by investing at key inflection points. The firm emphasizes a founder-friendly approach, providing not only capital but also strategic support to its portfolio companies. Notable milestones include the publication of influential research reports, such as the 2025 Onchain Revenue Report, which highlights the firm's commitment to thought leadership in the blockchain space.
1kx invests primarily in the blockchain ecosystem, focusing on sectors such as web3, fintech, and consumer applications. The firm targets seed-stage investments, ensuring that it supports early-stage startups as well as more established entities. 1kx's investment strategy emphasizes token-native network design for decentralized applications, which is a critical aspect of their thesis.
The organization looks for opportunities across various blockchain sectors, including middleware solutions, infrastructure, and funds & DAOs. 1kx seeks to invest at pivotal moments in a startup's development, allowing them to maximize their impact within the blockchain landscape. The firm is known for its active involvement in helping portfolio companies bootstrap token economies, governance structures, and community networks.
1kx boasts a diverse portfolio of over 150 active companies, with notable investments including:
Other notable exits include Arweave, Overlay Protocol, and Amp, showcasing the firm's ability to identify high-potential investments.
Christopher Heymann: Founding Partner with a background in technology and entrepreneurship, he has led several successful investments in the blockchain sector.
Lasse Clausen: Founding Partner and Operating Partner & COO, he brings extensive experience in managing operations and scaling startups.
Henry Brodie: Operating Partner & COO, he has a strong track record in operational management within the tech industry.
Wei Dai: Research Partner, specializing in blockchain research and investment analysis.
Peter Pan: Research Partner with expertise in market trends and investment strategies.
Robert Koschig: Head of Economics, focusing on the economic models of blockchain projects.
Karim Helmy: Head of Trading, responsible for managing trading strategies and investments.
Clare He: Managing Director of Capital Formation, overseeing fundraising efforts and investor relations.
Alexandra Miller: Head of Marketing, leading the firm's marketing strategies and outreach.
Carly E. Howard: General Counsel, providing legal guidance and support for investments.
Ed Brodie: Head of Product, focusing on product development and innovation.
Marco Hauptmann: Research Engineer, contributing to technical research and analysis.
Christian Rehm: Senior AI Engineer, specializing in AI applications within blockchain.
Mike Ryan: DevOps Engineer, managing infrastructure and deployment.
Nichanan Kesonpat: Research Principal, leading research initiatives and projects.
Michael Hua: Research Analyst, focusing on investment research and analysis.
Jakub Rusiecki: Research Associate, supporting research efforts.
David Alemany: Research Analyst, contributing to investment analysis.
Johannes Säuberlich: Data Analyst, managing data analysis and reporting.
Tom Kimmins: Operations Associate, assisting with operational tasks.
Zak Jelusic: Operations Associate, supporting day-to-day operations.
Marc Egloff: Operations Analyst, focusing on operational efficiency.
Rachel Robbert: Executive Assistant, providing administrative support.
Jiho (Jeff Zirlin): Venture Partner with a strong background in blockchain investments.
To pitch 1kx, founders should visit their website at 1kx.capital. It is recommended to include a detailed pitch deck that outlines the business model, market analysis, and the role of blockchain technology in the startup. Founders should expect a response within a few weeks, and warm introductions are preferred but not mandatory.
On March 12, 2026, 1kx made its last investment in a startup, continuing its active deployment strategy in the blockchain sector. Recent deals include investments in Bluff ($21M), Superstate ($82.5M), Transak ($16M), Arx ($6.1M), and Coop Records ($4.5M), showcasing the firm's commitment to supporting innovative projects.
In 2025, 1kx published the influential 2025 Onchain Revenue Report, documenting significant trends in onchain fees, which further solidified its reputation as a thought leader in the blockchain space. The firm continues to engage with the community through various publications and insights on blockchain technologies.
What are 1kx's investment criteria?
1kx focuses on early-stage investments in the blockchain sector, particularly in web3, fintech, and consumer applications. The firm looks for startups that are at key inflection points and have the potential to create token-native networks.
How can I pitch to 1kx?
Founders can pitch their startups through the 1kx website at 1kx.capital. It is advisable to include a clear outline of the business model, market opportunity, and how the startup plans to leverage blockchain technology.
What makes 1kx different from other VC firms?
1kx is recognized for its founder-friendly approach, providing not just capital but also strategic support in building token economies and governance structures. The firm emphasizes long-term partnerships with its portfolio companies.
What is the geographic scope of 1kx's investments?
1kx operates globally, with a primary focus on the United States and other international markets. The firm seeks to invest in innovative blockchain startups regardless of their location.
What is the typical check size for investments?
While specific check sizes are not disclosed, 1kx primarily invests at the seed stage, indicating that investments are likely to be in the range typical for early-stage funding rounds.
What kind of post-investment involvement does 1kx have?
1kx actively engages with its portfolio companies, providing mentorship, operational support, and assistance in building community networks. The firm aims to help startups grow and succeed in the competitive blockchain landscape.
All trademarks, logos and brand names are the property of their respective owners. All company, product and service names used in this website are for identification purposes only. Use of these names, trademarks, and brands does not imply endorsement.