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Copper Sky Capital, formerly known as AZ-VC, is an early-stage venture capital firm based in Scottsdale, Arizona. Founded in 2018, the firm was established to invest in non-obvious markets within the American Interior, focusing on supporting founders in underserved U.S. markets. The firm aims to back technology companies that represent the majority of the U.S. population and economic activity but receive a disproportionately small share of venture capital funding.
Currently, Copper Sky Capital manages a fund with over $115 million in committed capital. The firm has evolved from its initial Arizona-focused mandate to a broader North American investment strategy, reflecting its commitment to identifying and supporting innovative solutions to unique problems across various sectors. The firm operates from its Scottsdale office and has plans for future growth, including a target for a second fund of $300 million.
Copper Sky Capital primarily invests in early-stage software companies at the Seed and Series A stages, particularly those demonstrating early signs of product-market fit. The firm typically leads or co-leads investment rounds with check sizes ranging from $2 million to $4 million. Their geographic focus is on non-coastal U.S. markets, specifically targeting areas that are often overlooked by traditional venture capital.
The firm’s investment strategy emphasizes backing founders who identify unique problems and opportunities in underserved regions. Copper Sky Capital is sector agnostic but has a strong focus on AI software products, reflecting its commitment to supporting technology companies that can drive significant impact in their respective markets.
Copper Sky Capital has invested in several notable portfolio companies that exemplify its focus on AI and technology. These include:
These companies represent the firm's commitment to supporting innovative solutions in sectors that are critical to the economy but often underfunded.
Jason Pressman — Managing Partner; previously a long-time partner at Shasta Ventures, where he led numerous successful investments in technology companies.
Jack Selby — Managing Partner; former executive at PayPal, bringing extensive experience in scaling technology businesses and a strong network in the tech industry.
To pitch to Copper Sky Capital, founders should use the preferred channel available on their website at copperskycapital.com. It is important to include a comprehensive deck that outlines the business opportunity, market analysis, and team qualifications. The firm typically reviews submissions promptly, and founders are encouraged to seek warm introductions when possible to enhance their chances of engagement.
In February 2026, AZ-VC rebranded as Copper Sky Capital, reflecting its expanded investment mandate beyond Arizona to a broader North American focus. This rebranding aligns with the firm's mission to support innovative companies in non-obvious markets.
As of 2023, Copper Sky Capital has committed over $115 million to its first fund and is targeting $300 million for its second fund, aimed at filling the funding gap for startups in non-coastal regions.
What are Copper Sky Capital's investment criteria?
Copper Sky Capital focuses on early-stage technology companies, particularly in the Seed and Series A stages. They look for companies demonstrating early signs of product-market fit and typically lead or co-lead investment rounds with check sizes ranging from $2 million to $4 million.
How can founders apply or pitch to Copper Sky Capital?
Founders can pitch their ideas through the firm's website at copperskycapital.com. It is advisable to include a detailed deck that outlines the business model, market opportunity, and team background.
What makes Copper Sky Capital different from other venture firms?
The firm focuses on non-obvious markets within the American Interior, targeting areas that receive less venture capital funding. This unique approach allows them to identify and support founders who are solving problems that others may overlook.
What is the geographic scope of Copper Sky Capital's investments?
Copper Sky Capital primarily invests in non-coastal U.S. markets, expanding its focus to North America following its rebranding. This geographic strategy aims to support local innovation and entrepreneurship.
What type of post-investment involvement does Copper Sky Capital have?
The firm adds value to its portfolio companies by leveraging the extensive experience of its team, which consists of operators and investors with hands-on expertise. They focus on supporting founders in navigating the unique challenges of non-coastal markets.
What is the size of Copper Sky Capital's fund?
The firm currently manages a fund with over $115 million in committed capital, with plans for a second fund targeting $300 million to fill the funding gap for non-coastal startups.
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