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Build Collective, founded by Tony Fadell in 2017, operates as a venture capital firm with offices in San Francisco and Paris. The organization emerged from Fadell's previous venture, Future Shape, reflecting a renewed focus on sustainability and deep technology. Build Collective aims to support engineers and scientists developing innovative technologies that have significant environmental and societal impacts.
Currently, Build Collective manages a fund size of $25 million and has invested in six companies. The firm emphasizes its commitment to sustainability and aims to foster the growth of companies pioneering foundational technologies across various sectors. Notable milestones include the establishment of the Build Climate Fund, which channels proceeds from Fadell's book, *Build*, into climate-related startups.
Build Collective primarily invests in early-stage companies, focusing on seed funding and occasionally Series A rounds. The firm targets deep technology sectors, including healthcare, biotech, robotics, fintech, and consumer products. Their investment strategy emphasizes projects that contribute to a greener future, aligning with their mission to support technologies that improve quality of life.
Investment criteria include a strong emphasis on sustainability and innovation. Build Collective seeks founders who are engineers or scientists with a clear vision for their technology's societal impact. The firm prefers to engage in deal structures that allow for advisory support, leveraging Tony Fadell's extensive experience in technology and product development to help startups navigate challenges and scale effectively.
Build Collective's portfolio features six notable companies that exemplify its focus on sustainability and innovation:
These companies reflect Build Collective's commitment to investing in technologies that address environmental challenges and enhance quality of life.
Tony Fadell: Founder. Known for co-creating the iPod and founding Nest, which was acquired by Google for $3.2 billion. Fadell is an expert in design and hardware, with a focus on creating impactful technologies.
Elise Houren: Media and PR Specialist. Responsible for managing communications and public relations for Build Collective.
David Sloo: Product Experience Specialist. Focuses on enhancing product development and user experience for portfolio companies.
Anton Oenning: Marketing and Brand Specialist. Works on brand strategy and marketing initiatives for Build Collective and its portfolio.
Michael Quillinan: Legal Advisor. Provides legal guidance and support for investment activities and portfolio management.
Vicky Lu: Operations Coordinator. Manages operational aspects of the firm, ensuring smooth functioning and support for portfolio companies.
To pitch Build Collective, startups should email their pitch deck to fund@tonyfadell.com. The firm prefers concise presentations that clearly outline the technology, market opportunity, and sustainability impact. While specific response times are not disclosed, founders can expect a thorough review process.
Warm introductions are encouraged, as they can facilitate a more favorable reception. Startups should ensure their proposals align with Build Collective's focus on deep technology and sustainability.
Build Collective operates the Build Climate Fund, which focuses on investing in climate-related startups. This fund is supported by proceeds from the sale of Tony Fadell's book, *Build*, with a commitment from Fadell to match contributions up to $25 million. The fund aims to channel resources into innovative solutions that address climate change and promote sustainability.
In June 2025, Build Collective participated in a Series C funding round for Nabla, an AI copilot for clinicians. This investment aligns with their focus on deep technology and healthcare innovation.
In 2024, Build Collective led a $73 million Series B round for Sweep, a carbon accounting platform, further emphasizing their commitment to sustainability and environmental impact.
Additionally, the firm has been active in supporting various startups, including Lumafield, which raised $32.5 million for industrial CT scanning technology, showcasing their ongoing investment in innovative solutions.
What are Build Collective's investment criteria?
Build Collective focuses on early-stage companies in deep technology sectors, particularly those that contribute to sustainability. They primarily invest in seed rounds and occasionally Series A, seeking innovative solutions in healthcare, biotech, robotics, fintech, and consumer products.
How can startups pitch to Build Collective?
Startups can submit their investor pitch via email to fund@tonyfadell.com. The firm encourages global outreach and is open to innovative ideas that align with their investment focus.
What makes Build Collective different from other venture capital firms?
Build Collective combines capital investment with extensive advisory support. Tony Fadell's experience and network provide portfolio companies with valuable insights and guidance, helping them navigate challenges and scale effectively.
What is the geographic scope of Build Collective's investments?
The firm invests globally, with a particular focus on North America and Europe. They are open to opportunities that align with their mission, regardless of location.
What is the typical check size for investments?
While specific check sizes are not publicly disclosed, Build Collective primarily engages in seed funding and occasionally Series A rounds, indicating a focus on early-stage investments.
What kind of post-investment involvement does Build Collective have?
Build Collective provides ongoing advisory support to its portfolio companies, leveraging Tony Fadell's expertise in technology and product development to assist startups in overcoming challenges and achieving growth.
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