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519 Growth Fund is a venture capital firm based in London, Ontario, Canada, established in 2021. The firm focuses on early-stage technology-enabled companies, particularly those addressing significant market challenges. The name '519' references the area code for Southwestern Ontario, highlighting its regional roots. The fund has launched Fund II, successfully closing its first tranche at C$10 million, with a target of C$15 million by June 2026.
The firm emphasizes investments in startups that demonstrate recurring revenue and market acceptance. 519 Growth Fund has a hands-on approach, leveraging the partners' extensive experience and networks to support portfolio companies. The firm has made 13 investments through its first fund, co-managed with RHA Ventures, and is now independently raising Fund II.
519 Growth Fund invests in early-stage, growth-focused companies that exhibit recurring revenue, market acceptance, and a defensible market position. The firm targets sectors including agtech, food technology, fintech, web3, Internet of Things (IoT), healthcare, and sports technology. Investment stages range from pre-seed to Series A, allowing the firm to engage with startups at various developmental phases.
The fund's investment thesis emphasizes seed-stage investments in technology-enabled businesses that have shown market traction. The partners seek disciplined founders who are addressing real-world problems in sizable markets. The firm prefers companies with a clear path to revenue and a strong market presence, ensuring that investments are made in ventures with potential for significant growth.
519 Growth Fund's portfolio includes three notable companies:
These companies reflect the fund's commitment to investing in technology-enabled solutions across various sectors, including agtech and fintech. Each portfolio company demonstrates the fund's focus on recurring revenue and market acceptance, aligning with its investment strategy.
Brian Foster - Co-Founder. Brian has extensive experience in venture capital and entrepreneurship, focusing on early-stage technology investments.
Brian Cram - Co-Founder. Brian brings a wealth of knowledge in financial services and startup growth strategies, having worked with various tech companies.
David Brebner - Co-Founder and CFO. David has a strong background in finance and operations, previously managing investments and financial strategies for startups.
To pitch to 519 Growth Fund, founders should visit the application page on their website. The firm prefers detailed pitch decks that include information on market traction, revenue models, and the competitive landscape. While there is no specific application form mentioned, a well-structured presentation is essential.
Response times may vary, but founders should expect to hear back within a few weeks. Warm introductions are encouraged, as they can enhance the likelihood of securing a meeting with the partners.
In recent developments, 519 Growth Fund has successfully launched Fund II, closing its first tranche at C$10 million. The fund aims to reach a total of C$15 million by June 2026. This expansion reflects the firm's commitment to supporting early-stage technology-enabled companies across Canada.
Additionally, the firm continues to focus on sectors such as agtech, fintech, and healthcare, aligning its investment strategy with market demands and opportunities.
What are the investment criteria for 519 Growth Fund?
The fund invests in early-stage technology-enabled companies that demonstrate recurring revenue, market acceptance, and a defensible market position. Key sectors include agtech, fintech, web3, IoT, and healthcare.
How can I apply or pitch to 519 Growth Fund?
Interested parties can visit the application page on their website to submit pitches. The firm encourages detailed presentations that highlight market traction and revenue models.
What makes 519 Growth Fund different from other VC firms?
The fund emphasizes a hands-on approach, leveraging the partners' experience and networks to support portfolio companies. This strategy aims to reduce risk and enhance growth potential for startups.
What is the geographic scope of 519 Growth Fund?
While based in Southwestern Ontario, the firm invests in companies across Canada, focusing on those that address significant market problems.
What is the fund size and check size range?
519 Growth Fund's current fund size is C$8 million, with Fund II targeting C$15 million by June 2026. Check sizes typically align with early-stage investments, varying based on the specific needs of the startup.
What is the post-investment involvement of 519 Growth Fund?
The firm takes an active role in supporting its portfolio companies, providing mentorship, operational support, and access to their extensive network to help drive growth and success.
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