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Apertu Capital is an early-stage venture capital fund founded in 2022, headquartered in Seattle, Washington, with an additional presence in New York City. The firm focuses on investing in deep tech software startups, particularly those emerging from open source projects. By partnering with technical founders who possess a deep understanding of technological challenges, Apertu Capital aims to support the development of unique software solutions that can drive significant value creation in the SaaS landscape.
The fund has been actively building its portfolio, which currently includes 18 companies in the deep tech software space. Apertu Capital emphasizes collaboration and strategic value addition alongside capital investment, ensuring that technical founders receive the support they need to succeed in their ventures. The firm operates with a commitment to investing in sectors such as cloud, data, infrastructure, developer tools, and artificial intelligence (AI).
Notable milestones for Apertu Capital include its focus on open source as a substrate for the next $1 trillion of SaaS value creation. The firm has established a unique LP-adjacent giveback structure, where partners pledge part of their own carry to fund open source contributors, reflecting its commitment to the open source community.
Apertu Capital invests primarily in early-stage startups at the pre-seed and seed stages. The firm focuses on sectors including cloud, data, infrastructure, developer tools, and artificial intelligence (AI). Apertu Capital specializes in supporting technical founders who have developed innovative software solutions, particularly those that stem from open source projects. The fund emphasizes collaboration and strategic value addition alongside capital investment, ensuring that founders receive not only financial backing but also the necessary guidance to navigate technological challenges.
The investment strategy is centered around deep tech software startups, with a particular interest in those that leverage open source technology. Apertu Capital seeks to partner with founders who possess a strong technical background and a clear vision for their products. The firm is known for its disciplined investment pace, typically making 3-4 deals per year, and it coordinates follow-on investments through a major LP that can fund Series A rounds.
Apertu Capital's portfolio includes 18 notable companies, showcasing a diverse range of innovative solutions in the deep tech software space. Key portfolio companies include:
This diverse portfolio reflects Apertu Capital's commitment to investing in innovative solutions that leverage deep tech and open source technologies.
Don Sheu - Co-Founder & General Partner. Don has a background in software development and has previously founded software companies. He is a graduate of Columbia University and has a strong understanding of the challenges faced by technical founders.
To pitch Apertu Capital, founders should reach out via email at info@apertucapital.com. It is important to include a comprehensive pitch deck that outlines the startup's vision, technology, and market potential. Founders should expect a response within a few weeks, although timelines may vary based on the volume of inquiries.
Apertu Capital prefers warm introductions but is open to direct pitches from founders who can clearly articulate their value proposition. Including information about the founding team’s background and any traction or milestones achieved can strengthen the pitch.
As of April 16, 2025, Apertu Capital made a notable investment in Graze, a company providing tools and infrastructure for developers on the AT Protocol. This investment reflects the firm's ongoing commitment to supporting innovative deep tech startups.
In addition, Apertu Capital has been actively building its portfolio, which currently includes 18 companies in the deep tech software space, with a focus on open source technologies.
What are Apertu Capital's investment criteria?
Apertu Capital focuses on early-stage investments in deep tech software startups, particularly those at the pre-seed and seed stages. The firm seeks to partner with technical founders who have a strong understanding of their technology and market.
How can I apply or pitch to Apertu Capital?
Founders can pitch to Apertu Capital by sending an email to info@apertucapital.com. It is recommended to include a detailed overview of the startup, the team, and the technology being developed.
What makes Apertu Capital different from other VC firms?
Apertu Capital distinguishes itself through its focus on deep tech and open source software. The firm emphasizes collaboration with technical founders and provides strategic guidance alongside capital investment.
What is the geographic scope of Apertu Capital's investments?
The firm primarily invests in startups located in North America, particularly those based in Seattle and New York.
What is the typical check size for investments?
While specific check sizes are not publicly disclosed, Apertu Capital focuses on pre-seed and seed investments, which typically range from $100,000 to $1 million.
What kind of post-investment involvement does Apertu Capital have?
Apertu Capital actively collaborates with its portfolio companies, providing strategic guidance and support to help them navigate technological challenges and scale effectively.
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