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Burlington Capital Ag-Venture, now operating as Grit Road Partners, was founded in 2021 in Nebraska. The firm specializes in early-stage investments in AgTech startups that address real-world challenges faced by producers in the agriculture sector. In 2022, Grit Road Partners spun off as an independent entity from Burlington Capital, with Mike Jung serving as the Managing Partner. The firm has successfully closed its first fund, Fund I, at $11.25 million in the summer of 2023, which was oversubscribed. Grit Road Partners is preparing to launch Fund II, targeting $35 million in January 2026.
Currently, Grit Road Partners manages a portfolio of 23 companies, focusing on innovative solutions within the agriculture value chain. The firm emphasizes strategic partnerships with agribusinesses, individual producers, and land grant universities, facilitating the connection of Midwest-built technology with global markets. This approach not only enhances local agricultural practices but also brings international innovations back to local producers.
Grit Road Partners invests in early-stage AgTech companies that are dedicated to solving challenges for Midwest producers. The firm operates with a producer-first and industry-first approach, ensuring that investments are aligned with genuine producer needs. The investment strategy includes a focus on pre-seed, seed, and seed+ (extension) stages, with check sizes typically ranging from $100,000 to $500,000.
The firm emphasizes strategic partnerships with various stakeholders, including agribusinesses, individual producers, and land grant universities. This network provides operational expertise and market validation to portfolio companies, ensuring that their solutions are practical and effective. Grit Road Partners seeks companies that are not just technologically advanced but are also addressing real-world agricultural challenges, thereby enhancing the overall productivity and sustainability of the agriculture sector.
Grit Road Partners has built a diverse portfolio of 23 companies, focusing on innovative solutions within the agriculture value chain. Notable portfolio companies include:
These companies represent a mix of innovative technologies aimed at improving agricultural practices and addressing the needs of producers in the Midwest.
Mike Jung - Managing Partner. Mike has over 18 years of experience with Burlington Capital's agricultural initiatives and played a key role in the spin-off of Grit Road Partners. He has a strong background in venture capital and a deep understanding of the AgTech landscape.
To pitch Grit Road Partners, founders should use the preferred channel available on their website at gritrd.com. The pitch deck should include a comprehensive overview of the business model, market opportunity, and team qualifications. Grit Road Partners typically responds within a few weeks of receiving a pitch, and warm introductions are encouraged to enhance the chances of engagement.
In the summer of 2023, Grit Road Partners successfully closed Fund I at $11.25 million, which was oversubscribed. The firm is currently preparing to launch Fund II, targeting $35 million, with an initial close planned for January 2026. This marks a significant milestone in the firm's growth and commitment to supporting AgTech innovation.
What are Grit Road Partners' investment criteria?
Grit Road Partners focuses on early-stage AgTech companies that address genuine challenges faced by producers in the agriculture value chain. The firm looks for startups that demonstrate a clear understanding of the agricultural landscape and have innovative solutions that can be practically implemented.
How can I apply or pitch to Grit Road Partners?
Founders can pitch their ideas through the firm's website at gritrd.com. It is recommended to include a detailed business plan, market analysis, and information about the team in the pitch deck.
What makes Grit Road Partners different from other venture capital firms?
Grit Road Partners emphasizes a producer-first approach, leveraging a network of industry practitioners to provide operational expertise and market validation. This ensures that investments are aligned with the real needs of producers.
What is the geographic scope of Grit Road Partners?
The firm primarily focuses on North America, specifically targeting AgTech startups that serve the Midwest agricultural market.
What is the size of Grit Road Partners' funds?
Fund I closed at $11.25 million in the summer of 2023, and the firm is preparing to launch Fund II, targeting $35 million in January 2026.
What kind of post-investment involvement does Grit Road Partners have?
Grit Road Partners actively engages with its portfolio companies through mentorship, operational support, and access to its network of industry practitioners, ensuring that companies receive the guidance needed to succeed.
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