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1745 Ventures, formerly known as BDMI (Bertelsmann Digital Media Investments), is a New York-based venture capital firm that focuses on early- and growth-stage investments in technology and media-adjacent sectors. Originally established as Bertelsmann's corporate venture capital arm, the firm transitioned to a hybrid structure in 2024, allowing external investors to participate while maintaining Bertelsmann as a significant limited partner. The firm has a historical commitment of $450 million, which supports its investment activities.
Founded by Urs Cete and Sim Blaustein, who both have extensive backgrounds in venture capital, 1745 Ventures leverages Bertelsmann's global media and distribution network to enhance the growth potential of its portfolio companies. The firm primarily invests in software as a service (SaaS) companies, with a strong emphasis on next-generation media, fintech, and Web3 technologies. This strategic focus allows 1745 Ventures to align its investments with the evolving landscape of digital media and technology.
As of now, 1745 Ventures operates with a team that includes its founding partners and additional staff, although specific details about the team size and composition are not publicly disclosed. The firm continues to evolve, adapting its investment strategy to meet the demands of the market while providing valuable resources to its portfolio companies.
1745 Ventures primarily invests in early- and growth-stage companies across several key sectors, including software as a service (SaaS), next-generation media, fintech, and Web3. The firm seeks to support innovative companies that align with the changing dynamics of digital media and technology. Their investment strategy emphasizes technology that intersects with content, creator economies, and media-distribution dynamics, leveraging Bertelsmann's extensive media and distribution network to provide strategic support.
The firm is open to investments at various stages, including Seed, Series A, Series B, and Growth Equity, allowing them to engage with startups at different points in their development. While specific check sizes are not formally disclosed, the fund size of $450 million indicates a capacity for substantial investments. 1745 Ventures focuses primarily on the North American market but maintains a global perspective, utilizing Bertelsmann's resources to enhance the reach and impact of its portfolio companies.
1745 Ventures has built a notable portfolio that includes several high-profile companies, particularly in the media and technology sectors. Key portfolio companies include:
This diverse portfolio reflects 1745 Ventures' commitment to investing in companies that are at the forefront of media innovation and technology. The firm continues to seek out opportunities that align with its investment thesis, focusing on sectors that complement Bertelsmann's global media platform.
Urs Cete — Co-Founder & Managing Partner at 1745 Ventures. Urs has approximately 19 years of experience in venture capital, having served as Managing Partner of BDMI before co-founding 1745 Ventures. He is recognized as a key figure in the firm and has a deep understanding of the media and technology sectors.
Sim Blaustein — Co-Founder & Partner at 1745 Ventures. Sim has been a partner at BDMI for around 13 years and played a significant role in the transition to 1745 Ventures. His expertise lies in identifying and supporting innovative companies within the media and technology landscape.
To pitch 1745 Ventures, founders should initiate contact via email at info@bdmifund.com or through their website at 1745ventures.com. The firm prefers warm introductions, so leveraging mutual connections can enhance the chances of a successful pitch. Founders should include a concise overview of their business, highlighting key metrics, market opportunity, and alignment with 1745 Ventures' focus areas in their pitch deck.
While there is no formal application form, a well-structured pitch deck that clearly outlines the business model, growth strategy, and potential for collaboration with Bertelsmann's network is essential. Response times may vary, and founders should be prepared for a rolling application cycle.
In 2024, BDMI transitioned to 1745 Ventures, opening its doors to external investors and allowing a consortium of US-based investors to acquire a 50% stake in the existing portfolio. This strategic move marked a significant evolution for the firm, enabling it to operate as an independent venture capital entity while still benefiting from Bertelsmann's support as a major limited partner.
Notable portfolio exits include The Athletic, which was acquired by The New York Times in 2022, and Wondery, a premium podcast network acquired by Amazon. These successful exits highlight the firm's ability to identify and support high-potential companies in the media and technology sectors.
What are 1745 Ventures' investment criteria?
1745 Ventures primarily invests in early- and growth-stage companies within the SaaS, fintech, next-generation media, and Web3 sectors. They look for innovative startups that align with the evolving landscape of digital media and technology.
How can I pitch to 1745 Ventures?
Founders should reach out via email at info@bdmifund.com or visit their website at 1745ventures.com. The firm prefers warm introductions, so leveraging mutual connections can be beneficial.
What makes 1745 Ventures different from other VCs?
1745 Ventures combines venture capital with the extensive media and distribution network of Bertelsmann, providing portfolio companies with unique strategic support and resources that can enhance growth and market reach.
What is the geographic focus of 1745 Ventures?
The firm primarily focuses on North America but maintains a global perspective, leveraging Bertelsmann's international reach to support its portfolio companies.
What is the typical check size for investments?
While specific check sizes are not disclosed, the fund size of $450 million suggests that 1745 Ventures is capable of making substantial investments across its portfolio.
What is the post-investment involvement like?
1745 Ventures actively engages with its portfolio companies, providing strategic support and access to Bertelsmann's resources to help enhance growth and market visibility.
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