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Aera VC is an early-stage venture capital fund founded in 2017 and headquartered in Singapore. The firm is licensed and regulated by the Monetary Authority of Singapore, allowing it to operate globally. Aera VC focuses on empowering founders to scale their businesses, particularly in the deep technology sector. The fund has a total capital of $30 million, which it allocates primarily to companies in the climate tech space.
Since its inception, Aera VC has established a strong track record, backing three unicorns from seed stage and achieving top-decile returns across its funds. The firm has raised approximately $1.4 billion in follow-on funding for its portfolio companies, demonstrating its effectiveness in identifying and nurturing high-potential startups. Aera VC's notable portfolio includes companies that are pioneering advancements in sustainability and climate solutions.
With a globally distributed team, Aera VC primarily invests in the USA and Asia Pacific regions. The firm has made significant strides in the climate tech sector, positioning itself as one of the earliest funds dedicated to this area, predating the recent boom in climate technology investments.
Aera VC invests in deep technology companies at the Pre-Seed to Series A stages, with a strong emphasis on sectors such as climate, energy, biotech, AI, and frontier technologies. Approximately 80% of the fund's capital is allocated to breakthrough climate technologies, while the remaining 20% is directed towards frontier innovations across aerospace, robotics, advanced materials, and AI applications. This strategic focus allows Aera VC to support companies that are not only innovative but also contribute to sustainability and environmental resilience.
The firm seeks to invest in startups that demonstrate a clear potential for significant impact in their respective fields. Aera VC looks for founders who are deeply knowledgeable about their industries and possess a strong vision for their companies. The fund prefers to engage in co-investments and values partnerships that enhance the growth trajectory of its portfolio companies. Aera VC's geographic focus spans the USA and Asia Pacific, enabling it to tap into diverse markets and access a wide range of investment opportunities.
Aera VC's portfolio includes a diverse range of companies that are making significant strides in their respective sectors. Notable portfolio companies include:
This portfolio reflects Aera VC's commitment to investing in companies that prioritize sustainability and innovation, particularly in the climate tech sector.
Derek Handley — Co-founder: Derek has a background in entrepreneurship and venture capital, having previously founded multiple startups. He brings expertise in sustainability and innovation to Aera VC.
Nick Winstone — Co-founder: Nick has extensive experience in venture capital and has been involved in numerous successful investments in the deep tech sector.
Josh Thompson — Partner: Based in New York, Josh is a co-founder of Dream DAO and has a strong background in technology investments.
Alex Andre de La Porte — Partner: Operating from Sydney, Alex focuses on investments in the Asia Pacific region and has a deep understanding of the local market dynamics.
Guneet Banga — Partner: Guneet is based in Hong Kong and specializes in identifying high-potential startups in the technology sector.
Milena Nikolova — Partner: Milena is located in Singapore and has a strong track record in venture capital, particularly in the biotech and sustainability sectors.
Daniel Tan — Fund Director, Principal: Daniel oversees fund operations and investment strategies, ensuring alignment with Aera VC's mission.
Jiore Craig — Insight Partner: Jiore provides insights and guidance on market trends and investment opportunities.
Jui Jhala — Fund Director, Finance & Compliance: Jui manages financial operations and compliance for the fund.
Roz Turner — Operations & Support: Roz supports the operational aspects of the fund, ensuring smooth functioning.
To pitch Aera VC, founders should visit the contact page on their website. It is essential to include a comprehensive pitch deck that outlines the business model, market opportunity, and team qualifications. Aera VC does not specify a formal application process, but a well-structured deck is crucial for making a strong impression.
Response times may vary, but founders can expect to hear back within a few weeks. Aera VC values warm introductions, so leveraging connections within their network can enhance the chances of a successful pitch.
In February 2022, Aera VC announced the first close of its latest fund, totaling $30 million. This fund aims to support early-stage investments in deep technology and sustainability-focused startups.
Notable portfolio company Solugen achieved a valuation of $1.8 billion, highlighting Aera VC's successful investment strategy in the climate tech sector.
Aera VC continues to expand its portfolio, focusing on companies that are pioneering advancements in sustainability and climate solutions, with ongoing efforts to identify and support innovative startups in the USA and Asia Pacific.
What are Aera VC's investment criteria?
Aera VC focuses on deep technology companies at the Pre-Seed to Series A stages, primarily in the USA and Asia Pacific. The firm emphasizes investments in sectors related to climate, energy, biotech, AI, and frontier technologies.
How can founders pitch to Aera VC?
Founders can pitch their ideas through the contact page on Aera VC's website. It is advisable to include a detailed business plan and information about the team and market potential in the pitch deck.
What makes Aera VC different from other venture capital firms?
Aera VC's distinct focus on deep technology and sustainability sets it apart. The firm allocates a significant portion of its capital to breakthrough climate technologies, which aligns with global trends towards sustainability.
What is Aera VC's geographic scope?
Aera VC primarily invests in the USA and Asia Pacific regions, leveraging its globally distributed team to access diverse markets and investment opportunities.
What is Aera VC's post-investment involvement like?
Aera VC provides strategic guidance and access to a global network of resources and investors to its portfolio companies. The firm actively supports its startups in achieving growth and scaling their operations.
What is the typical check size for investments?
Aera VC invests in early-stage companies, with check sizes varying based on the specific needs of the startup and the stage of investment, typically within the Pre-Seed to Series A range.
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