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Brickyard is an unconventional early-stage venture capital firm founded in 2021 and based in Chattanooga, Tennessee. The firm operates as a 'startup insulator' or founder outpost, requiring founders to physically relocate to Chattanooga to build toward product-market fit alongside a dense community of world-class founders. This model emphasizes collaboration and community engagement, distinguishing Brickyard from traditional accelerators.
As of the latest update, Brickyard has approximately $18 million committed out of a targeted $20 million for its first fund, Brickyard Fund I. The firm has made a total of 24 investments, focusing on creating a supportive environment for entrepreneurs. Brickyard's unique approach to venture capital fosters a close-knit community, which is essential for early-stage companies navigating the challenges of growth.
Brickyard invests in early-stage companies, specifically in the pre-seed and seed stages. The firm targets technology-driven sectors, including fintech, healthtech, and edtech. Brickyard's investment strategy emphasizes the importance of founder alignment and community engagement, which are critical for helping startups achieve product-market fit.
The firm typically writes checks ranging from $250,000 to $500,000, with a deliberate pace of about 10 checks per year. This limited approach allows Brickyard to maintain a high level of involvement with each portfolio company. Founders are required to relocate to Chattanooga until they raise a minimum of $1 million or decide to shut down, ensuring they are embedded in the supportive community Brickyard has cultivated.
Brickyard maintains a portfolio of approximately 20 companies that are building on-site in Chattanooga. The firm has made a total of 24 investments through its first fund, Brickyard Fund I. While specific company names are not disclosed in the provided data, the portfolio includes startups across fintech, healthcare, and edtech sectors, reflecting the firm's focus on technology-driven innovation.
This unique model allows Brickyard to create a collaborative environment where founders can share resources and insights, ultimately enhancing their chances of success. The firm’s commitment to aligning incentives is evident as all portfolio founders receive 10% of the GPs' carried interest, further strengthening the community.
To pitch Brickyard, founders should visit their website at justlaybrick.com. It is advisable to include a clear overview of the business model, market opportunity, and how the startup aligns with Brickyard's focus areas. The firm does not specify a response time, but founders should be prepared for a thorough evaluation process.
What are Brickyard's investment criteria?
Brickyard focuses on early-stage companies in the pre-seed and seed stages, particularly in fintech, healthtech, and edtech sectors. The firm looks for technology-driven startups that can benefit from a collaborative environment.
How can I pitch to Brickyard?
Founders interested in pitching to Brickyard should visit their website at justlaybrick.com. The firm does not provide specific email addresses or office locations for pitches.
What makes Brickyard different from other venture capital firms?
Brickyard is not an accelerator and does not offer structured programming, cohorts, or demo days. Instead, it requires founders to relocate to Chattanooga, fostering a close-knit community that supports startups in achieving product-market fit.
What is the typical check size Brickyard invests?
Brickyard typically invests between $250,000 and $500,000 in each startup, with a focus on providing substantial support to early-stage companies.
What is the expected involvement of Brickyard post-investment?
Brickyard emphasizes a collaborative environment where founders can access resources and support. The firm aligns incentives by sharing 10% of the GPs' carried interest with all portfolio founders, promoting a cooperative atmosphere.
How many companies are in Brickyard's portfolio?
Brickyard currently has approximately 20 companies in its portfolio, all of which are building on-site in Chattanooga.
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