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8VC is a venture capital firm founded in 2015 by Joe Lonsdale, a co-founder of Palantir. The firm is headquartered in Austin, Texas, after relocating from San Francisco in 2020. 8VC manages over $6 billion in capital and operates both as a traditional VC fund and through its internal venture studio known as the 'Build' program. The firm has grown to a team of 115 members, including 15 partners, and has established a significant presence in the venture capital landscape.
Since its inception, 8VC has focused on investing in sectors that contribute to the 'American industrial renaissance,' particularly in defense technology, life sciences, and critical infrastructure. The firm has achieved notable milestones, including 357 investments and 38 acquisitions, positioning itself as a key player in the venture capital space.
8VC's investment strategy emphasizes 'national capability' companies across various sectors, including defense, industrials, bio-infrastructure, healthcare, logistics, fintech, and enterprise software. The firm invests at multiple stages, from pre-seed to growth equity, with check sizes ranging from $500,000 to $50 million. Their unique venture studio model allows them to co-found startups, utilizing 25-30% of their fund capital to assemble specialized teams, including experts from the military and academia.
The firm actively seeks out entrepreneurs who align with their vision of creating economic and societal value. They prioritize investments that leverage data integration and network effects, enabling human experts to tackle complex challenges. This approach not only enhances their portfolio but also contributes to the broader goal of revitalizing American industry.
8VC has invested in a diverse portfolio of 357 companies, with notable exits and acquisitions. Key portfolio companies include:
In the last 12 months, 8VC has made 54 investments, demonstrating their active engagement in the market.
Joe Lonsdale - Founder, Managing Partner. Co-founder of Palantir, with a background in technology and venture capital. He has a strong network in defense and government sectors.
Drew Oetting - Investment Team. Experienced in venture capital with a focus on technology investments.
Alex Kolicich - Investment Team. Specializes in identifying and supporting high-potential startups.
Jin-Young Kim - Investment Team. Focuses on healthcare and life sciences investments.
Jake Medwell - Investment Team. Experienced in logistics and industrial investments.
Francisco Gimenez - Investment Team. Works on technology and software investments.
Sebastian Caliri - Investment Team. Focuses on fintech and enterprise software.
Asanka Jayasuriya - Portfolio Support. Provides operational support to portfolio companies.
Alex Moore - Investment Team. Engages in sourcing and evaluating new investment opportunities.
Karen White - Portfolio Support. Assists portfolio companies with strategic initiatives.
Zach White - Portfolio Support. Focuses on operational efficiency and growth strategies for portfolio companies.
To pitch to 8VC, founders should visit the firm's contact page for guidance on submission. A clear and concise deck is essential, highlighting the business model, market opportunity, and team qualifications. While specific application forms are not mentioned, a well-structured pitch is crucial for consideration. Response times may vary, but founders are encouraged to follow up if they do not receive timely feedback.
8VC operates the 'Build' program, a venture studio model that co-founds startups using 25-30% of its fund capital. This program assembles teams of top specialists to drive innovation in critical sectors. Eligibility for participation in the Build program typically involves alignment with 8VC's investment thesis and a strong potential for societal impact. Interested founders can inquire through the firm's contact page for more details on how to apply.
In early 2026, 8VC made headlines with its latest investment on February 1, continuing its trend of high activity with 54 investments in 2025. The firm is currently raising Fund VI, targeting approximately $1 billion, which reflects its ongoing commitment to supporting innovative startups. Notably, Saronic, a portfolio company specializing in robotic drones, is in talks for a $500 million raise at a $3 billion valuation, showcasing the firm's strong position in the defense sector.
Q? What are 8VC's investment criteria?
A: 8VC focuses on 'national capability' companies in sectors such as defense, healthcare, and logistics, investing from pre-seed to growth equity stages with check sizes ranging from $500K to $50M.
Q? How can startups apply or pitch to 8VC?
A: Startups can pitch through the contact page on 8VC's website. Specific email addresses are not provided, but they encourage direct outreach.
Q? What makes 8VC different from other venture capital firms?
A: 8VC combines traditional venture capital with a venture studio model, co-founding startups and leveraging a network of top specialists, including Navy SEALs and Nobel laureates.
Q? What is the geographic scope of 8VC's investments?
A: 8VC primarily invests in North America, with a focus on companies that contribute to the American industrial renaissance.
Q? What is 8VC's post-investment involvement like?
A: 8VC actively supports its portfolio companies through operational assistance, strategic guidance, and access to their extensive network.
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