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CincyTech is a venture capital firm located in Cincinnati, Ohio, founded in 2007. The firm was established to invest in innovative founders who are tackling complex challenges across various sectors. CincyTech aims to strengthen the regional economy by driving talent and capital into scalable technology ventures, particularly in Southwest Ohio.
Currently, CincyTech manages approximately $670 million in assets and has invested in over 160 companies. The firm has a strong focus on early-stage investments, particularly in healthcare and technology sectors. CincyTech has established partnerships with notable institutions such as Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center and the University of Cincinnati, which further enhances its investment capabilities.
Over the years, CincyTech has achieved significant milestones, including 38 successful exits, with notable companies like Airway Therapeutics leading the way. The firm is recognized as one of the Midwest's most active seed funds, attracting substantial co-investment and creating numerous jobs in the region.
CincyTech's investment strategy encompasses several key sectors, including healthcare, digital health, security, accessibility, productivity, and sustainability. The firm primarily targets early-stage companies, specifically in the pre-seed, seed, seed-plus, and Series A stages. CincyTech seeks to support companies that are addressing urgent problems with novel and defensible technology.
The firm looks for gifted founders with compelling product visions in future-proof markets. CincyTech emphasizes the importance of scalable technology solutions that can drive significant impact. Their investment thesis is centered around partnering with innovative entrepreneurs who are committed to transforming their ideas into successful businesses.
Geographically, CincyTech focuses on North America, particularly the United States, with a strong emphasis on the Southwest Ohio region. This regional focus allows the firm to leverage local resources and networks to support its portfolio companies effectively.
CincyTech has built a diverse portfolio of over 160 companies, showcasing its commitment to supporting innovative solutions across various sectors. Notable portfolio companies include:
This portfolio reflects CincyTech's focus on healthcare and technology, with a strong emphasis on companies that leverage innovative solutions to address pressing challenges.
Emma Off: CEO, President, & Partner. Emma has extensive experience in venture capital and entrepreneurship, leading CincyTech's strategic vision and investment decisions.
Kerry Hull, CPA, MBA: Chief Financial Officer & Chief Operating Officer. Kerry oversees financial operations and strategic planning, bringing a wealth of experience in finance and management.
Sean Kwiat: Vice President, Investments. Sean focuses on sourcing and evaluating investment opportunities, leveraging his background in technology and finance.
Kenneth Morand, Ph.D.: Life Sciences Partner. Kenneth brings deep expertise in life sciences and healthcare, guiding investments in biopharmaceuticals and related sectors.
Ashley Anderson: Senior Manager, Marketing & Communications. Ashley manages CincyTech's marketing strategies and communications, enhancing the firm's visibility in the startup ecosystem.
Stacey Barnes: Senior Business Operations Manager. Stacey oversees operational processes and supports portfolio companies in their growth journeys.
Logan Hille: Life Sciences Analyst. Logan assists in evaluating life sciences investments, contributing to CincyTech's focus on healthcare innovation.
Emily Nickles: Controller. Emily manages financial reporting and compliance, ensuring the firm's financial health.
John Rice, Ph.D.: Partner Emeritus. John provides strategic insights and mentorship based on his extensive experience in venture capital and healthcare.
To pitch to CincyTech, startups should use the application portal available at cincytechusa.com/pitch-us. The firm prefers detailed decks that include information about the problem being addressed, the technology used, market potential, and the team behind the startup. Response times can vary, but founders should expect to hear back within a few weeks.
CincyTech values warm introductions, so leveraging connections within their network can improve the chances of a successful pitch.
In 2024, CincyTech announced the acquisition of Amify by Cart.com, highlighting its successful investment strategy in the e-commerce sector. The firm continues to showcase its portfolio companies on its website, emphasizing its commitment to supporting innovative solutions in healthcare and technology.
CincyTech has also been recognized for its significant contributions to the regional economy, having created approximately 1,500 jobs with an average salary of $100,000. The firm has attracted over $1.7 billion in co-investment, demonstrating its effectiveness in scaling startups.
Recent reports indicate that CincyTech is targeting a $100 million close for Fund VI, marking a substantial increase from previous fund sizes. This growth reflects the firm's strong track record and commitment to supporting early-stage companies in the Southwest Ohio region.
What are CincyTech's investment criteria?
CincyTech invests in early-stage companies primarily in the healthcare and technology sectors. The firm looks for innovative founders addressing complex challenges with novel technology. They focus on pre-seed, seed, seed-plus, and Series A stages.
How can startups apply or pitch to CincyTech?
Startups can pitch to CincyTech through their dedicated application portal available at cincytechusa.com/pitch-us. The firm encourages detailed presentations that outline the problem being solved, the technology used, and the market potential.
What makes CincyTech different from other venture capital firms?
CincyTech is unique due to its strong regional focus on Southwest Ohio and its partnerships with local institutions like Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center. The firm has a proven track record of successful exits and job creation in the region.
What is CincyTech's geographic scope?
CincyTech primarily invests in North America, with a specific focus on the United States and the Southwest Ohio region. This geographic emphasis allows them to leverage local networks and resources effectively.
What is CincyTech's post-investment involvement like?
CincyTech provides strategic guidance and access to a network of resources and expertise to its portfolio companies. The firm is actively involved in supporting the growth and development of its investments.
What is the typical check size for investments?
CincyTech's check sizes vary depending on the stage of investment, typically ranging from pre-seed to Series A funding. The firm aims to provide sufficient capital to help startups scale effectively.
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