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Allison Pickens Ventures is a venture capital firm founded by Allison Pickens in 2024, based in San Francisco, California. The firm emerged from the legacy of The New Normal Fund, which operated from 2020 to 2024. As a solo General Partner, Pickens focuses on early-stage investments, particularly in the B2B SaaS sector and AI startups. Her previous experience as the COO of Gainsight, where she scaled the company from $1 million to $85 million in annual recurring revenue (ARR) before its acquisition by Vista Equity Partners in 2020, informs her investment strategy.
The firm currently manages a portfolio of 31 companies, emphasizing operational excellence and go-to-market strategies. Allison Pickens Ventures aims to provide not only capital but also strategic support to help founders navigate the complexities of scaling their businesses. The firm is well-positioned to leverage its operational insights to foster growth in its portfolio companies.
Allison Pickens Ventures invests primarily in seed-stage AI applications and data infrastructure, with a strong emphasis on B2B SaaS. The firm typically provides investment checks ranging from $400,000 to $1 million for seed-stage companies, while also participating in Series A rounds with checks between $250,000 and $500,000. This investment strategy reflects a commitment to supporting founders who require operational guidance and market entry strategies.
The firm seeks to partner with entrepreneurs who demonstrate a clear vision for category creation within the B2B SaaS landscape. Allison Pickens Ventures values operational excellence and aims to assist founders in scaling their businesses effectively. The firm’s focus on AI applications and data infrastructure aligns with current market trends, positioning it as a key player in the evolving technology landscape.
Allison Pickens Ventures has built a diverse portfolio of 31 companies, showcasing a strong signal of quality in deal flow. Notable portfolio companies include:
These companies represent a mix of early to mid-stage enterprises within the enterprise technology sector, reflecting the firm’s commitment to investing in high-potential startups.
Allison Pickens - Founder and General Partner. Allison has a notable background as the former COO of Gainsight, where she played a crucial role in scaling the company from $1 million to $85 million in annual recurring revenue (ARR) before its acquisition by Vista Equity Partners in 2020. She is recognized for her expertise in customer success, ARR growth, and scaling B2B SaaS businesses. Allison is also a signal-generating investor on platforms like NFX Signal and CB Insights, where she shares insights on operational strategies and market trends.
To pitch Allison Pickens Ventures, founders should visit new-normal.ventures. The firm prefers detailed pitch decks that outline the team, market opportunity, product differentiation, and operational plans. Founders should expect a response within a few weeks, and warm introductions are encouraged to increase the chances of engagement.
In 2024, Allison Pickens Ventures transitioned from its previous identity as The New Normal Fund to its current branding. This change reflects a new focus and commitment to investing in early-stage B2B AI applications and data infrastructure. The firm has made 31 investments to date, showcasing its active engagement in the venture capital space.
Allison Pickens continues to publish thought leadership content on her website, sharing insights on go-to-market strategies and customer success. This ongoing activity positions her as a relevant voice in the venture capital community, particularly for founders in the AI and B2B SaaS sectors.
What are the investment criteria for Allison Pickens Ventures?
The firm focuses on seed-stage and Series A investments in AI applications and B2B SaaS companies. They look for startups that demonstrate operational excellence and a clear go-to-market strategy.
How can founders pitch to Allison Pickens Ventures?
Founders can submit their pitches through the firm’s website at new-normal.ventures. It is recommended to include details about the team, market opportunity, and product differentiation in the pitch deck.
What makes Allison Pickens Ventures different from other VCs?
Allison Pickens Ventures differentiates itself by providing not just capital but also operational support and strategic guidance, leveraging Allison Pickens' extensive experience as a former COO of Gainsight.
What is the typical check size for investments?
The firm typically invests between $400,000 and $1 million in seed-stage companies and between $250,000 and $500,000 in Series A rounds.
What geographic areas does Allison Pickens Ventures focus on?
The firm primarily invests in companies based in the United States, particularly those in the B2B SaaS and AI sectors.
What kind of post-investment involvement can founders expect?
Founders can expect active involvement from Allison Pickens Ventures, including mentorship on operational strategies and assistance with go-to-market execution, drawing from Allison Pickens' experience at Gainsight.
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