Discover if this is a suitable investor for your startup. If they are we'll make a warm introduction for free. Otherwise, we'll connect you with matching investors.
Blacktop Capital is a venture capital firm founded in June 2016 by Ben Brasher and Tyson Trautmann. The firm is headquartered in Sacramento, California, with additional offices in Seattle and connections in Los Angeles and Silicon Valley. Blacktop Capital focuses on investing in seed-stage companies, particularly in the software sector, and aims to support founders with ambitious goals.
Since its inception, Blacktop Capital has built a portfolio of over 30 companies, demonstrating a commitment to nurturing innovative startups. The firm emphasizes a founder-friendly approach, providing not only capital but also strategic guidance and mentorship to help entrepreneurs achieve their objectives. Blacktop Capital has established itself as a notable player in the Western US investment landscape, particularly in the Sacramento area.
Blacktop Capital primarily invests in seed-stage companies, with a strong emphasis on software-heavy sectors, particularly in Enterprise Applications and High Tech. The firm typically writes checks in the range of $100,000 to $10 million, with a sweet spot around $1 million. Blacktop Capital targets pre-money valuations of approximately $5 million at the seed stage.
The firm seeks to partner with visionary founders who possess world-changing ambitions. Blacktop Capital's investment strategy is characterized by a 'People First' ethos, which highlights the importance of mentorship and strategic guidance alongside financial investment. This approach is designed to foster strong relationships with founders and support them in navigating the challenges of building successful companies.
Blacktop Capital has invested in a diverse range of over 30 companies, with a notable focus on software and technology. Key portfolio companies include:
Overall, Blacktop Capital has recorded 8 acquisitions among its portfolio companies, indicating a strong exit strategy and successful investment approach.
Ben Brasher - Co-Founder and Managing Partner. Ben has a background in business ownership, having previously operated in wholesale auto auctions before transitioning to venture capital. He holds a degree in Business and Computer Science from BYU and an Executive MBA from UC Berkeley Haas.
Tyson Trautmann - Co-Founder and Managing Partner. Tyson is a classmate of Ben at UC Berkeley Haas and has a career background in software. His expertise complements the firm's focus on technology investments.
To pitch Blacktop Capital, founders should use the contact form available on their website at blacktop.vc. It is important to include a comprehensive pitch deck that outlines the business model, market opportunity, and team qualifications. Blacktop Capital prefers to receive pitches through this channel and typically responds within a few weeks.
Warm introductions are beneficial but not mandatory. Founders should ensure that their pitch clearly communicates their vision and the potential impact of their startup.
As of 2026, Blacktop Capital remains an active investor in the seed-stage ecosystem, particularly in the Western United States. The firm has been recognized among the top investors in the Sacramento area, consistently participating in 2-6 investment rounds annually. Recent activity includes notable investments in companies like Liftoff and Pyka, which have gained traction in their respective markets.
Blacktop Capital's reputation for supporting visionary founders continues to grow, as evidenced by its increasing presence in regional startup resources and directories. The firm is positioned as a key player in the seed-stage investment landscape, particularly for software-focused startups.
What are Blacktop Capital's investment criteria?
Blacktop Capital focuses on seed-stage investments in software-heavy sectors, particularly in Enterprise Applications and High Tech. The firm seeks visionary founders with ambitious goals and typically invests between $100,000 and $10 million, with a sweet spot around $1 million.
How can I pitch to Blacktop Capital?
Founders can pitch Blacktop Capital through their website at blacktop.vc. It is recommended to include a clear overview of the business model, market opportunity, and the team in the pitch deck.
What makes Blacktop Capital different from other investors?
Blacktop Capital emphasizes a 'People First' approach, providing not only capital but also strategic guidance and mentorship to its portfolio companies. This commitment to founder support sets them apart in the seed-stage investment landscape.
What is the geographic focus of Blacktop Capital?
The firm primarily invests in the Western United States, with a strong presence in Sacramento and Seattle, as well as connections in Los Angeles and Silicon Valley.
What is the typical check size for investments?
Blacktop Capital typically invests between $100,000 and $10 million, with a sweet spot around $1 million for seed-stage companies.
What kind of post-investment involvement can founders expect?
Blacktop Capital provides ongoing mentorship and strategic guidance to its portfolio companies, helping founders navigate challenges and achieve their ambitious goals.
All trademarks, logos and brand names are the property of their respective owners. All company, product and service names used in this website are for identification purposes only. Use of these names, trademarks, and brands does not imply endorsement.