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Chicago Venture Partners (CVP) is a private investment firm founded in 1998 and headquartered in Chicago, Illinois. The firm focuses on providing capital to emerging and growth-stage small-cap companies listed on the Nasdaq and New York Stock Exchange. CVP primarily engages in Private Investments in Public Equities (PIPEs) while also exploring private investment opportunities, including strategic acquisitions and the establishment of new ventures.
As of now, CVP manages over $825 million in assets and has made individual investments of up to $100 million. The firm has a portfolio of over 350 companies, showcasing its extensive experience in the investment landscape. Notable milestones include successful exits from companies like Grubhub and Braintree, which have contributed to its reputation in the industry.
CVP operates from its Chicago office and emphasizes its commitment to the Midwest region of the United States. The firm’s approach is characterized by a hands-on methodology, ensuring that they build long-term relationships with their portfolio companies to foster growth and success.
Chicago Venture Partners invests in small-cap companies across a diverse range of sectors, including healthcare, fintech, energy, consumer, biotech, AI, commerce, logistics, media, and edtech. The firm targets pre-seed, seed, and seed-plus stages, providing flexible funding solutions tailored to the specific needs of each portfolio company. Their investment strategy is marked by a hands-on approach, allowing them to adapt to the unique requirements of their investments.
CVP typically invests between $2 million and $3 million per transaction, with the capacity to lead investments totaling up to $30 million. The firm emphasizes building long-term relationships with portfolio companies, which allows them to offer strategic guidance and support throughout the investment lifecycle. This tailored approach differentiates CVP from other firms, as they focus on the specific needs of each company rather than applying a one-size-fits-all strategy.
Chicago Venture Partners has invested in over 350 publicly traded companies since its inception. Notable affiliated operating companies include:
In addition to these companies, CVP has notable exits including Grubhub, which was acquired by Just Eat Takeaway, and Braintree, acquired by PayPal. These successful exits highlight CVP's ability to identify and nurture high-potential companies within its portfolio.
John M. Fife - Founder, Principal, and Managing Partner. He holds a BS in Computer Science & Statistics from Brigham Young University and an MBA from Harvard Business School. Fife also serves as President, Chairman, and CEO of Utah Resources International, focusing on real estate development and management. He is actively involved in philanthropic efforts, including the Vermont Youth Orchestra Association and Emerging Artists Chicago.
The combined management team at CVP has approximately 45 years of experience in the investment sector, bringing a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the firm.
To pitch Chicago Venture Partners, founders should use the preferred channel of their website at chicagoventure.com or email info@chicagoventure.com. It is important to include a comprehensive business plan, financial projections, and details about the team. CVP typically responds within a few weeks, but response times may vary based on the volume of inquiries.
As of April 2023, Chicago Venture Partners continues to focus on its investment strategies in small-cap public companies and has maintained a strong presence in the Midwest region. The firm has not publicly announced any recent deals or exits, but its historical portfolio includes notable successes such as Grubhub and Braintree.
What are Chicago Venture Partners' investment criteria?
CVP focuses on small-cap companies across various sectors, including healthcare, fintech, and AI. They typically invest at the pre-seed, seed, and seed-plus stages, providing tailored funding solutions to meet the specific needs of each company.
How can I apply or pitch to Chicago Venture Partners?
Founders can pitch to CVP through their website at chicagoventure.com or by emailing info@chicagoventure.com. It is advisable to include a detailed business plan and financial projections in the pitch.
What makes Chicago Venture Partners different from other firms?
CVP differentiates itself through its hands-on approach and commitment to building long-term relationships with portfolio companies. They tailor their investment strategies to the unique needs of each company rather than applying a fixed format.
What is the geographic scope of Chicago Venture Partners?
CVP primarily invests in companies located in North America, with a strong emphasis on the Midwest region of the United States.
What is the typical check size for investments?
CVP typically invests between $2 million and $3 million per transaction, with the ability to lead larger investments totaling up to $30 million.
What kind of post-investment involvement does Chicago Venture Partners have?
CVP takes an active role in supporting its portfolio companies through strategic guidance, operational support, and follow-on investments as needed.
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