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Better Ventures is a venture capital firm founded in 2011 and based in Oakland, California. The firm is dedicated to investing in early-stage technology companies that aim to create positive societal change. With a strong belief that mission-driven companies can effectively tackle significant societal challenges, Better Ventures emphasizes the integration of social and environmental considerations into business models. The firm has established itself as one of the original impact-first venture capital firms, certified as a B Corporation, which underscores its commitment to ethical investing and sustainable practices.
Since its inception, Better Ventures has focused on sectors that align with the UN's Sustainable Development Goals, including climate, healthcare, fintech, edtech, and biotech. The firm typically invests between $500,000 and $3 million in its portfolio companies, providing not only capital but also strategic guidance and access to a network of industry experts. This approach allows Better Ventures to support companies that are not only financially viable but also contribute positively to society.
Better Ventures was originally known as Hub Ventures before rebranding in 2015. The firm has built a reputation for its rigorous investment thesis, which prioritizes B2B solutions that leverage science and technology to foster a sustainable economy. With a team of experienced partners, including co-founders Wes Selke and Rick Moss, Better Ventures continues to play a pivotal role in the impact investing landscape.
Better Ventures specializes in investing in early-stage companies that leverage technology and science to build a sustainable economy. The firm’s investment focus spans several key sectors, including climate, healthcare, fintech, edtech, and biotech. By targeting companies that align with the UN's Sustainable Development Goals, Better Ventures aims to support innovations that address pressing societal challenges.
The firm is particularly interested in B2B solutions that can scale effectively and create significant impact. Their investment themes include sustainable industry, human health, and the future workforce, reflecting a commitment to fostering advancements that benefit society as a whole. Better Ventures seeks to partner with founders who are not only technically proficient but also share a vision for creating positive change through their business models.
With check sizes ranging from $500,000 to $3 million, Better Ventures is positioned to support companies at the pre-seed and seed stages. The firm looks for startups that demonstrate a clear understanding of their market and a strong potential for growth, particularly those that incorporate social and environmental considerations into their operations. This focus on impact-driven innovation sets Better Ventures apart in the competitive venture capital landscape.
Better Ventures boasts a diverse portfolio of innovative companies that exemplify its commitment to impact-driven investing. Notable investments include Debut, a company focused on sustainable beauty solutions; Synop, which provides an operating system for commercial electric vehicles; Eko, known for its cloud-based diagnostics that enhance cardiac care; and RxDiet, which utilizes artificial intelligence to promote food as medicine. These companies reflect Better Ventures' focus on health, sustainability, and workforce development.
In addition to these standout companies, Better Ventures has invested in several other promising startups, including Adept ID, Zya, and Doowii. Each of these companies is aligned with Better Ventures' mission to support technology that addresses significant societal challenges. The firm actively engages with its portfolio companies, providing strategic guidance and access to a network of industry experts to help them achieve their goals.
Overall, Better Ventures' portfolio is a testament to its belief in the power of technology to create positive societal change, making it a key player in the impact investing space.
Wes Selke: Co-founder and Partner, Wes has extensive experience in impact investing and is dedicated to supporting mission-driven companies.
Rick Moss: Co-founder and Partner, Rick focuses on identifying innovative startups that align with Better Ventures' investment thesis.
Lyndsey Boucherle: Partner based in San Francisco, Lyndsey brings a wealth of knowledge in venture capital and a passion for sustainability.
Billy: Partner with a focus on supporting early-stage companies in the health and sustainability sectors.
To pitch Better Ventures, founders should visit their website at better.vc and submit their proposal. The firm prefers pitches that clearly articulate how the startup aligns with their impact-focused investment thesis, particularly in sectors like sustainability and health.
What stages does Better Ventures invest in?
Better Ventures primarily invests in the pre-seed and seed stages of company development. This focus allows them to support early-stage startups that are working on innovative solutions to societal challenges.
How do I pitch Better Ventures?
Founders interested in pitching to Better Ventures can do so through their website at better.vc. The firm welcomes pitches that align with their investment focus on impact-driven technology companies.
What sectors does Better Ventures focus on?
Better Ventures invests in a variety of sectors, including climate, healthcare, fintech, edtech, and biotech. They specifically look for companies that leverage technology to create sustainable solutions.
What is Better Ventures' typical check size?
The typical check size for Better Ventures ranges from $500,000 to $3 million, depending on the stage of the company and the potential for impact.
Where does Better Ventures invest geographically?
Better Ventures primarily focuses on investments in North America, targeting companies that are positioned to create positive societal change within this region.
What is the application process for Better Ventures?
To apply for funding from Better Ventures, founders should submit their pitch through the firm’s website. They are encouraged to present a clear vision of how their company aligns with Better Ventures' impact-focused investment thesis.
What portfolio support does Better Ventures provide?
Better Ventures adds value to its portfolio companies by offering strategic guidance, access to a network of industry experts, and support in aligning their business models with social and environmental impact goals.
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