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BuildGroup is an investment organization founded in 2015 by former tech founders and executives, based in Austin, Texas. The firm specializes in scaling emerging software-as-a-service (SaaS) companies, particularly those that leverage artificial intelligence (AI). With a team of experienced professionals, BuildGroup provides both capital and strategic guidance to help companies during their growth phases.
As of now, BuildGroup manages assets totaling $368 million and has made investments ranging from $5 million to $20 million. The firm focuses on early-growth stage companies with annual recurring revenue (ARR) between $3 million and $20 million. BuildGroup has established a notable presence in North America and Europe, with a portfolio that includes several high-growth companies.
Since its inception, BuildGroup has evolved into a significant player in the venture capital space, emphasizing its dual role as both a venture studio and an investor. This unique approach allows them to build companies from the ground up while also investing in existing firms that align with their investment thesis.
BuildGroup invests primarily in AI-enabled SaaS companies that have demonstrated high-growth potential. Their investment strategy targets early-growth stage companies that have achieved initial product-market fit and are ready to scale. The firm typically invests in companies with annual recurring revenue (ARR) between $3 million and $20 million, providing initial investments ranging from $5 million to $20 million.
The geographic focus of BuildGroup includes North America and Europe, allowing them to tap into diverse markets and innovative startups. The firm seeks to partner with companies that are transitioning from startup to growth, emphasizing the importance of a strong product-market fit. BuildGroup's investment thesis centers on scaling emerging AI-enabled SaaS companies, which positions them to capitalize on the increasing demand for AI-driven solutions in various industries.
BuildGroup's portfolio features a range of notable companies, including:
This diverse portfolio reflects BuildGroup's commitment to investing in high-growth potential companies that leverage AI and SaaS technologies.
Lanham Napier: Co-Founder & Chairman. Napier previously served as the CEO of Rackspace, where he gained significant experience in cloud and infrastructure technology.
Jim Curry: Co-Founder & CEO. Curry has a strong background in technology and entrepreneurship, contributing to BuildGroup's strategic direction.
Klee Kleber: Co-Founder. Kleber brings extensive experience in building and scaling technology companies.
Christina Fok: CFO & Chief Compliance Officer. Fok oversees financial operations and compliance, ensuring the firm's fiscal health.
Eric Levine: Vice President. Levine focuses on sourcing and managing investments within the portfolio.
Miguel Perez: Senior Associate. Perez supports investment analysis and portfolio management.
Olivia Cannell: Associate. Cannell assists in deal sourcing and due diligence processes.
To pitch to BuildGroup, founders should use the email address Invest@buildgroup.com. It is recommended to include a comprehensive pitch deck that outlines the business model, market opportunity, and growth strategy. Founders should expect a response time that varies based on the volume of inquiries, but prompt and clear communication is encouraged.
Warm introductions are preferred, as they can facilitate a more favorable review of the pitch. Including relevant metrics and milestones achieved can strengthen the pitch and demonstrate the company's growth potential.
BuildGroup runs a program called BuildGroup, which focuses on scaling AI-enabled SaaS companies. This program provides resources and support to portfolio companies, helping them navigate the challenges of growth and market expansion.
Eligibility for the program typically includes being an early-growth stage company with a demonstrated product-market fit. Interested companies can apply by reaching out to BuildGroup directly via their contact email.
On March 1, 2023, BuildGroup announced a new investment in Squirro, a generative AI-enabled semantic search platform, further expanding its portfolio in the AI sector. This investment aligns with BuildGroup's focus on scaling high-growth SaaS companies.
In January 2023, BuildGroup published a blog post discussing the latest trends in AI and SaaS, showcasing their ongoing engagement with industry developments. The firm continues to actively share insights through their blog, titled 'Building Blocks.'
What are BuildGroup's investment criteria?
BuildGroup focuses on AI-enabled SaaS companies that have achieved initial product-market fit and are transitioning from startup to growth. They typically invest in early-growth stage companies with annual recurring revenue (ARR) between $3 million and $20 million.
How can I apply or pitch to BuildGroup?
Founders can reach out to BuildGroup via email at Invest@buildgroup.com. It is advisable to include a detailed pitch deck that outlines the business model, market opportunity, and growth strategy.
What makes BuildGroup different from other investors?
BuildGroup operates as both a venture studio and an investment firm, allowing them to build companies from scratch while also investing in existing firms. This dual approach provides unique insights and resources to portfolio companies.
What is the typical check size for investments?
BuildGroup typically invests between $5 million and $20 million in their portfolio companies, depending on the company's size and growth potential.
What geographic areas does BuildGroup focus on?
BuildGroup primarily invests in companies based in North America and Europe, allowing them to tap into diverse markets and innovative startups.
What kind of support does BuildGroup provide to portfolio companies?
BuildGroup adds value through strategic guidance, leveraging the team's extensive experience in technology and enterprise software to help portfolio companies navigate growth challenges.
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