Backwards Capital

Backwards Capital invests in early-stage companies across various sectors, including technology, consumer goods, and entertainment. The firm operates at multiple stages, including pre-seed, seed, seed-plus, and Series A. Chris Zarou's expertise in recognizing talent and emerging trends plays a crucial role in the investment strategy, allowing the firm to identify outliers before they gain widespread recognition.

The fund emphasizes strategic investments and aims to provide value-added support to its portfolio companies. This includes hands-on operational support, strategic introductions, and marketing expertise. Backwards Capital seeks to partner with founders who demonstrate exceptional potential and are poised for growth in their respective markets.

In addition to financial backing, the firm focuses on building strong relationships with its founders, offering tailored guidance and problem-solving assistance. This operational support model is designed to help portfolio companies navigate challenges and capitalize on opportunities in their industries.

Backwards Capital's portfolio includes a diverse range of companies, showcasing its commitment to investing in exceptional founders:

• Logic: A well-known rapper and entrepreneur, identified early by Chris Zarou.
• MAdhappy: A brand co-founded by Peiman Raf, which has received significant support from Zarou.
• Nucleus: Founded by Kian Sadeghi, who has praised Zarou's involvement as an investor.
• Underdog Fantasy: Co-founded by Jeremy Levine, who highlights Zarou's strategic value.
• Conduit Commerce: Co-founded by Rohan Shah, who appreciates Zarou's contributions as a thought partner.
• Siegelman Stable: Founded by Max Siegelman, who values Zarou's strategic thinking and support.
• Type Five: Founded by Tim Thimmaiah, who recognizes Zarou's hands-on approach.
• Reclip: Co-founded by Dan Fruhman, who has benefited from Zarou's extensive network.
• Order.co: Co-founded by Zach Garippa, who relies on Zarou for problem-solving and support.
• Babylon Biosciences: Founded by Sacha Schermerhorn, who appreciates Zarou's willingness to engage deeply with founders.
• Hypercard: Co-founded by Marc Baghadjian and Nikolas Ioannou, who value Zarou's humility and curiosity.

Chris Zarou: Founder & General Partner. Zarou has a rich background in the music industry as the Founder and CEO of Visionary Music Group, where he built the careers of artists like Logic, Jon Bellion, and Jeremy Zucker. He has a proven track record in talent identification and emerging trends, which he leverages in his role at Backwards Capital. Zarou is also a former Division 1 soccer player and has successfully transitioned from independent music management to a record label with a 50/50 partnership with Sony Music.

To pitch Backwards Capital, founders should visit their website at backwardscapital.com. The firm prefers pitches that include a clear overview of the business model, market opportunity, and team qualifications. Founders should be prepared for a thorough review process, and while specific response times are not disclosed, prompt communication is encouraged.

Warm introductions are beneficial but not mandatory. Founders should ensure their pitch deck is concise and highlights the unique value proposition of their startup.

As of early 2025, Backwards Capital has launched its first fund, focusing on early-stage investments. The firm has not publicly disclosed specific portfolio companies or deal announcements yet, but it has been actively seeking to identify and invest in promising ventures.

Chris Zarou has been featured in various media outlets, discussing his approach to identifying talent and supporting founders. The firm has also been highlighted in the Private Equity International profile and the Outlier Academy podcast, showcasing its commitment to partnering with exceptional founders.