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AI List is a venture capital organization based in Palo Alto and Santa Monica, California, focused on investing in AI-driven startups. Founded to bridge the gap between U.S. high-tech companies and the Chinese market, AI List provides not only capital but also strategic resources to enhance growth and scalability. The firm has invested in over 20 high-growth AI startups in the U.S., showcasing its commitment to fostering innovation in the tech sector.
Currently, AI List manages a fund size of approximately $1 million, targeting early-stage investments across various sectors including AI, SaaS, fintech, and Web3. The firm operates from two office locations: 165 University Avenue, Palo Alto, CA 94301, and 225 Santa Monica Blvd #900, Santa Monica, CA 90401. AI List is incubated by Zuma Partners, a recognized venture capital fund, which adds credibility to its operations and investment strategies.
AI List primarily targets early-stage investments in sectors such as artificial intelligence, SaaS, fintech, and Web3. The firm seeks to support startups that leverage artificial intelligence to innovate and disrupt traditional markets, particularly those that can benefit from cross-border opportunities between the U.S. and China. AI List typically invests in Friends & Family, Accelerator/Incubator, Pre-seed, Seed, and Series A stages, making it a suitable partner for startups at various early development phases.
The firm’s investment strategy emphasizes connecting U.S. high-tech startups with venture funding and resources from China. AI List looks for founders who demonstrate a strong vision and capability to execute their business models, particularly those utilizing SaaS frameworks. The firm values startups that can effectively navigate the complexities of cross-border markets, enhancing their growth potential through strategic partnerships and market access.
AI List has invested in a diverse range of companies within the AI and technology sectors. Notable portfolio companies include:
These companies represent AI List's commitment to fostering innovation and supporting startups that are positioned to disrupt traditional markets.
Henry Shi - Co-Founder / Managing Partner. Henry has a background in venture capital and entrepreneurship, previously serving as a venture partner at BOLD Capital Partners. He has led investments in numerous AI-driven startups and has extensive experience in Sino-U.S. business relations.
Tim Zhou - Co-Founder / Venture Partner. Tim is recognized for his expertise in early-stage investments and has been involved in founding and managing several successful startups. His focus is on identifying high-potential AI and SaaS companies.
Enoch Wong - Director. Enoch's role includes overseeing investment opportunities and supporting portfolio companies. His background in technology and finance positions him well to contribute to AI List's mission.
To pitch AI List, founders should send an email to info@ailist.io. The pitch deck should include a clear overview of the business model, market analysis, and financial projections. AI List prefers detailed presentations that highlight the startup's potential for growth and its alignment with the firm's investment thesis.
Response times may vary, but founders should expect to wait a few weeks for feedback. Warm introductions are beneficial but not mandatory.
As of April 2023, AI List has been actively investing in AI-driven startups, having supported over 20 high-growth companies in the U.S. However, there have been no recent updates or blog posts on their website, indicating a lack of public activity beyond their investment efforts. The last known investment activity was reported in March 2020, with several portfolio companies receiving funding during that period.
AI List continues to position itself as a bridge between U.S. innovation and Chinese market opportunities, although the current status of its operations and investment activity should be verified by founders before outreach.
What are AI List's investment criteria?
AI List invests primarily in early-stage startups within the AI, SaaS, fintech, and Web3 sectors. The firm looks for companies that leverage artificial intelligence to create innovative solutions and have the potential for cross-border growth, particularly between the U.S. and China.
How can I apply or pitch to AI List?
Founders can pitch AI List by sending an email to info@ailist.io. It is advisable to include a detailed business plan, financial projections, and information about the team and market opportunity in the pitch deck.
What makes AI List different from other venture capital firms?
AI List differentiates itself by focusing on connecting U.S. high-tech startups with resources in the Chinese market. This unique positioning allows portfolio companies to access additional growth opportunities and strategic partnerships that may not be available through other investors.
What is the geographic scope of AI List's investments?
AI List primarily invests in startups located in the United States, with a specific focus on those that can benefit from connections to the Chinese market.
What is the typical check size for investments?
While specific check sizes are not disclosed, AI List's fund size is approximately $1 million, indicating that investments are likely to be in the early-stage range, suitable for seed and Series A rounds.
What kind of post-investment involvement does AI List have?
AI List provides not only financial support but also strategic guidance and access to a network of industry experts and follow-on investors, enhancing the growth potential of its portfolio companies.
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