Discover if this is a suitable investor for your startup. If they are we'll make a warm introduction for free. Otherwise, we'll connect you with matching investors.
Chicago Ventures is a venture capital firm established to support early-stage companies. Founded in Chicago, the firm focuses on partnering with founders to build enduring businesses across various industries. Chicago Ventures has a portfolio of 10 companies and operates primarily in North America, specifically the United States.
The firm emphasizes sectors that are often overlooked, including logistics, healthcare, fintech, SaaS, consumer, proptech, and mobility. Chicago Ventures has a history of providing high conviction checks and taking active roles in the companies they invest in, which has contributed to their reputation in the venture capital community.
Notable milestones include their consistent investment in early rounds of funding, which has allowed them to build a diverse portfolio. Their team comprises experienced professionals who bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to their investments.
Chicago Ventures invests in early rounds of funding, specifically targeting pre-seed, seed, seed-plus, and Series A stages. The firm focuses on sectors that are often overlooked, such as Supply Chain, Logistics & Warehousing, Healthcare, Fintech, Enterprise Tools, Consumer Media & Entertainment, Data Management, Proptech, Small Business Tools, and Mobility. Their investment strategy emphasizes high conviction checks, which allows them to support companies with significant resources and guidance.
Geographically, Chicago Ventures operates primarily in North America, with a strong emphasis on the United States. They look for founders who demonstrate resilience and a clear vision for their companies. The firm prefers to take active roles in their portfolio companies, providing not just capital but also strategic guidance and operational support.
Chicago Ventures has invested in a diverse range of companies across various sectors. Notable portfolio companies include:
This portfolio reflects Chicago Ventures' commitment to investing in sectors that are often overlooked, providing innovative solutions and services to meet market demands.
Rob Chesney: Partner at Chicago Ventures, Rob has extensive experience in venture capital and has led numerous successful investments in early-stage companies.
Eric Duboe: Partner at Chicago Ventures, Eric specializes in fintech and healthcare investments, bringing a wealth of knowledge to the firm.
Ford Johnstone: Associate at Chicago Ventures, Ford focuses on sourcing and evaluating new investment opportunities.
Lindsay Knight: Partner at Chicago Ventures, Lindsay has a strong background in consumer and SaaS investments.
Stuart Larkins: Partner at Chicago Ventures, Stuart has expertise in logistics and mobility sectors.
Emma Lawler: Entrepreneur in Residence (EIR) at Chicago Ventures, Emma provides insights and guidance to portfolio companies.
Kevin Willer: Venture Partner at Chicago Ventures, Kevin has a background in technology and entrepreneurship.
To pitch Chicago Ventures, founders should visit their website and submit their applications through the provided channels. A well-structured pitch deck should include the problem statement, market analysis, business model, and team background.
As of October 2023, Chicago Ventures continues to actively invest in early-stage companies across various sectors. Their recent focus has been on expanding their portfolio in logistics and healthcare.
In the past year, Chicago Ventures has made several notable investments, including funding rounds for companies like AeroPay and Project44, which have shown significant growth potential in their respective markets.
What are Chicago Ventures' investment criteria?
Chicago Ventures focuses on early-stage companies in sectors such as logistics, healthcare, fintech, and more. They prefer to invest in pre-seed, seed, seed-plus, and Series A rounds.
How can I apply or pitch to Chicago Ventures?
Founders can pitch to Chicago Ventures by visiting their website at Chicago Ventures. They encourage direct applications through their online platform.
What makes Chicago Ventures different from other firms?
Chicago Ventures emphasizes high conviction investments in overlooked sectors and takes active roles in their portfolio companies, providing both capital and strategic support.
What is the geographic scope of Chicago Ventures?
The firm primarily operates in North America, focusing on the United States.
What is the typical check size for investments?
While specific check sizes are not disclosed, Chicago Ventures is known for providing high conviction checks to support their portfolio companies effectively.
What kind of post-investment involvement can founders expect?
Chicago Ventures takes an active role in their portfolio companies, offering mentorship, operational support, and strategic guidance to help founders navigate challenges and grow their businesses.
All trademarks, logos and brand names are the property of their respective owners. All company, product and service names used in this website are for identification purposes only. Use of these names, trademarks, and brands does not imply endorsement.