Blindspot Ventures

Blindspot Ventures invests in early-stage companies that are creating innovative solutions in sectors such as biotech, climate, AI, healthcare, energy, and frontier technologies. The firm specifically targets seed-stage investments, with check sizes typically ranging from $500,000 to $3 million. This investment strategy is designed to support founders who are developing technologies that address significant challenges in infrastructure and technology.

The firm emphasizes a strong orientation towards the Boston ecosystem, which is known for its academic and scientific resources. Blindspot Ventures seeks to partner with 'iconoclastic' founders who are not only innovative but also willing to challenge the status quo in their respective industries. The firm looks for companies that have the potential to reshape industry trajectories through their technological advancements.

In terms of deal structure, Blindspot Ventures often co-invests in larger rounds, allowing them to participate in significant funding opportunities while providing their portfolio companies with the necessary resources to scale. The firm values collaboration and often engages in partnerships that enhance the growth potential of its investments.

Blindspot Ventures has a diverse portfolio of 13 companies, focusing on transformative technologies across various sectors. Notable portfolio companies include:

• Salient: Provides subseasonal-to-seasonal weather forecasts using machine learning and climate expertise.
• Form Energy: Develops ultra-low-cost multi-day energy storage solutions to optimize energy grids, having raised $240 million in its Series D round.
• Biobot: Offers health diagnostic tools that provide real-time public health data through community-level stool sample analysis, securing a CDC contract and raising $20 million.
• BloXroute Labs: Builds a blockchain distribution network to enhance data propagation in decentralized internet applications, raising $70 million in its Series B round.
• Volta Labs: Focuses on automating fluidic sample manipulation to advance genomics research, having raised $20 million in its Series A round.
• Databento: Creates a financial data marketplace that democratizes access to financial data.
• Goodpath: Provides personalized health and wellness programs through HR departments.
• Treno: Develops an operating system for software development organizations to optimize workflows.
• Mori: Innovates food preservation solutions to reduce waste in the food supply chain, raising $50 million in its Series B1 round.
• CSM: Leverages machine learning for 3D perception and manipulation applications.
• Atlantic Quantum: Works on scalable quantum computing solutions.
• Osmoses: Designs molecular filters for industrial chemical separations.
• Pascal: Aims to transform HVAC systems with sustainable refrigerants.

This portfolio skews towards deep tech, climate, and life science infrastructure, all of which are capital-intensive but have clear institutional follow-on from top-tier VCs.

Ahmed Hentati: Managing Partner. Ahmed leads deal sourcing and portfolio support at Blindspot Ventures. He has a background in Boston startup accelerators and seed-stage venture capital prior to founding Blindspot. His expertise lies in identifying promising early-stage companies and providing them with the necessary resources to scale.

Hassan Dayekh: Managing Partner. Hassan co-heads the investment committee and leads operations at Blindspot Ventures. He has a background in banking and previously served as a managing partner in the growth-stage VC arm of a multi-family office with over $4 billion in assets. His experience in finance and venture capital enables him to provide valuable insights into operational efficiency and growth strategies for portfolio companies.

To pitch to Blindspot Ventures, founders should visit their website at blindspot.vc. The firm prefers a concise pitch deck that includes an overview of the business model, market opportunity, competitive landscape, and the founding team’s background. Response times may vary, but founders can expect to hear back within a few weeks.

Warm introductions are encouraged, as they can enhance the likelihood of a favorable review. Founders should ensure that their pitch clearly outlines the innovative aspects of their technology and its potential impact on the industry.

As of 2023, Blindspot Ventures has not publicly announced any new portfolio investments or exits. The firm has maintained a low profile in terms of recent deal activity, with the last notable investments reported in 2022. This may indicate that the fund is currently in a quiet phase or between investment vehicles.

Despite the lack of recent announcements, Blindspot Ventures continues to be recognized for its focus on transformative technologies and its commitment to supporting early-stage companies in the Boston area. The firm remains a key player in the seed-stage venture capital landscape.