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Bela Juju Ventures is a venture capital firm founded in 2019 by Rei Carvalho, a Brazilian-American serial entrepreneur and computer scientist. Based in Denver, Colorado, the firm operates without intermediaries, allowing for a close alignment with founders. Bela Juju Ventures primarily deploys its own capital, focusing on sectors such as technology, construction, mobility, logistics, personal financial management, and consumer services.
Since its inception, Bela Juju Ventures has made over 300 investments, showcasing its commitment to supporting entrepreneurs throughout their business journeys. The firm emphasizes comprehensive assistance beyond financial backing, providing strategic guidance and operational support to its portfolio companies. Notable milestones include the successful exit of ApplyBoard, an ed-tech platform that achieved unicorn status.
Bela Juju Ventures adopts a flexible investment strategy, targeting various sectors including AI, mobility, logistics, consumer services, fintech, healthcare, proptech, edtech, energy, and climate. The firm typically invests in early-stage companies, with check sizes ranging from $100,000 to $300,000. Its geographic focus is primarily on Latin America, particularly Brazil and the United States.
The firm seeks to partner with founders who demonstrate a strong vision and operational capability. Bela Juju Ventures values adaptability and innovation, aiming to support companies that can pivot and evolve in response to market demands. The investment thesis emphasizes mobility, logistics, AI/ML applications, and consumer products, aligning with the firm’s goal of fostering growth in dynamic sectors.
Bela Juju Ventures has a diverse portfolio of over 300 companies, with notable investments including:
Additionally, the firm has achieved notable exits, including the successful exit of ApplyBoard, which has reached unicorn status in the ed-tech space. Bela Juju Ventures continues to expand its portfolio, adapting to emerging opportunities in various sectors.
Rei Carvalho — Founder and CEO; Rei is a Brazilian-American serial entrepreneur and computer scientist. He previously founded Emailage, a fraud prevention company acquired by RELX/LexisNexis in March 2020, which serves as the primary capital source for Bela Juju Ventures.
Sylvia Carvalho — Co-investor/Partner; Sylvia collaborates closely with Rei in evaluating investment opportunities and supporting portfolio companies.
To pitch to Bela Juju Ventures, founders should visit their website at belajuju.com. The firm prefers direct applications and encourages founders to include a clear overview of their business model, market opportunity, and team in their pitch decks. Response times may vary, but the firm aims to review submissions promptly.
As of April 2023, Bela Juju Ventures continues to actively invest in startups across Latin America. The firm has recently expanded its portfolio with new investments in sectors such as AI and mobility. Notable recent activity includes the successful funding rounds for companies like Moises, which raised $40 million in Series A funding.
Additionally, Bela Juju Ventures has been recognized for its commitment to supporting entrepreneurs through comprehensive assistance beyond financial backing, reinforcing its position as a key player in the Latin American venture capital landscape.
What are Bela Juju Ventures' investment criteria?
Bela Juju Ventures invests in early-stage companies across various sectors, including technology, mobility, logistics, and consumer services. The firm looks for founders with a strong vision and operational capability, as well as adaptability to market changes.
How can I apply or pitch to Bela Juju Ventures?
Founders can pitch their ideas by visiting the Bela Juju Ventures website at belajuju.com. The firm encourages direct applications and provides guidance on what to include in pitch decks.
What makes Bela Juju Ventures different from other investors?
Bela Juju Ventures emphasizes comprehensive support beyond financial investment. The firm aligns closely with founders, providing strategic guidance and operational support throughout the business journey.
What is the geographic scope of Bela Juju Ventures?
The firm primarily focuses on investments in Latin America, particularly Brazil and the United States, adapting its strategy to seize opportunities in these markets.
What is the typical check size for investments?
Bela Juju Ventures typically invests between $100,000 and $300,000 in early-stage companies, allowing for flexibility based on the specific needs of each startup.
What is Bela Juju Ventures' post-investment involvement?
The firm provides ongoing support to its portfolio companies, offering strategic guidance and operational assistance to help them navigate challenges and achieve growth.
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