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Ada Ventures is a venture capital firm founded in 2018 and based in London and Bristol, UK. The firm specializes in early-stage technology investments, particularly targeting diverse founders. Ada Ventures has pioneered the Inclusive Alpha approach, which emphasizes inclusivity and aims to generate strong returns while addressing social challenges.
As of now, Ada Ventures has closed Fund II at 63 million GBP (approximately 80 million USD) and has made over 100 investments. The firm has a strong commitment to supporting underrepresented founders, with 64% of its portfolio comprising individuals from diverse backgrounds, including 57% female and 32% non-white founders. Notable milestones include generating over 40 million GBP in annual recurring revenue (ARR) from Fund I and securing 100 million GBP in follow-on investments from prominent investors such as GV and Mubadala.
Ada Ventures primarily invests in pre-seed and seed stages, focusing on the UK and Northern Europe. The firm emphasizes three key themes in its investment strategy: climate equity, healthy ageing, and economic empowerment. This targeted approach allows Ada Ventures to identify and support innovative entrepreneurs who are building businesses in large, untapped markets.
The firm typically writes checks ranging from 312,000 to 1 million USD, with an average check size of approximately 557,000 GBP. Ada Ventures actively sources talent beyond London, aiming to reach underserved markets and support founders who may be overlooked by traditional venture capital.
Ada Ventures has built a diverse portfolio of over 100 companies across various sectors, including climate, consumer, healthcare, and SaaS. Notable portfolio companies include:
Recent investments in 2025 include Jack & Jill AI, Interhuman AI, Aerska, and ToothFairy Series A. The firm has demonstrated strong follow-on funding from tier 1 VCs, reflecting confidence in its portfolio companies.
Check Warner - Founding Partner: Check has extensive experience in venture capital and has led numerous successful investments in technology startups.
Matt Penneycard - Founding Partner: Matt brings a wealth of knowledge in early-stage investing and has a strong track record of supporting diverse founders.
Michael Tefula - Principal & Head of Product: Michael specializes in product development and has a background in technology and innovation.
Xun Ning Choong - Head of Operations & Impact: Xun Ning focuses on operational excellence and impact measurement within the portfolio.
Emma Richards - Head of Finance: Emma oversees financial operations and strategy, ensuring the firm’s fiscal health.
Diarra Smith - Head of Portfolio & Brand: Diarra manages portfolio relationships and brand strategy, enhancing visibility for portfolio companies.
Sophia Draper - Founders Associate: Sophia supports founders in their journey, providing resources and guidance.
To pitch Ada Ventures, founders should use the dedicated portal available on their website. The pitch deck should include a clear overview of the business model, market opportunity, and team background. Response times may vary, but the firm typically reviews submissions promptly.
Ada Ventures operates a Scout program designed to identify and support diverse founders who may be overlooked by traditional venture capital. This program provides training and opportunities for individuals from non-traditional backgrounds to engage in the investment process.
On October 16, 2025, Ada Ventures made several notable investments, including Jack & Jill AI, Interhuman AI, Aerska, and ToothFairy Series A. These investments reflect the firm's ongoing commitment to supporting innovative companies in underserved markets.
Q? What are Ada Ventures' investment criteria?
Ada Ventures focuses on pre-seed and seed investments in the UK and Northern Europe, targeting sectors such as climate equity, economic empowerment, and healthy ageing. The firm seeks to support diverse founders and innovative technologies.
Q? How can I pitch to Ada Ventures?
Founders can submit their pitch through the dedicated portal on the Ada Ventures website. The firm encourages detailed presentations that highlight the unique aspects of the business and its potential impact.
Q? What makes Ada Ventures different from other VC firms?
Ada Ventures employs the Inclusive Alpha investment approach, which prioritizes inclusivity and aims to generate strong returns while addressing social challenges. This strategy has led to a significant percentage of investments in underrepresented founders.
Q? What is the typical check size for investments?
Ada Ventures typically invests between 312,000 and 1 million USD, with an average check size of approximately 557,000 GBP.
Q? What is the geographic scope of Ada Ventures?
The firm primarily invests in the UK and Northern Europe, focusing on underserved markets and diverse founders.
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