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CiRi Ventures is a venture capital firm based in San Francisco, California, dedicated to climate innovation. Founded to support early-stage startups, the firm focuses on companies that have the potential to significantly reduce carbon emissions, specifically targeting those that can eliminate over 50 million tons of CO2e annually. The firm operates with a fund size of approximately $120 million, emphasizing its commitment to impactful investments in the climate sector.
The organization has established itself as a key player in the climate tech space, particularly in water technologies and decentralized infrastructure. CiRi Ventures has a portfolio that reflects its mission, with investments in companies that are pioneering solutions to some of the most pressing environmental challenges. The firm is known for its strategic guidance and support, helping startups navigate the complexities of the climate tech landscape.
CiRi Ventures invests primarily in pre-seed and seed stage startups within the climate tech sector. The firm is particularly interested in companies that focus on breakthrough water technologies and decentralized infrastructure. Their investment strategy is centered around supporting visionary founders who are developing innovative solutions aimed at reducing carbon emissions significantly.
The firm typically invests between $1 million and $3 million in its portfolio companies, with some reports indicating potential check sizes up to $10 million. CiRi Ventures emphasizes the importance of addressing significant environmental challenges through its investments, particularly in areas that can lead to substantial reductions in carbon emissions. Their dual-lens evaluation system includes traditional financial metrics alongside proprietary water-specific impact indicators, ensuring a comprehensive assessment of potential investments.
CiRi Ventures has a notable portfolio that includes companies making strides in climate innovation:
These companies exemplify CiRi Ventures' commitment to investing in technologies that can significantly impact carbon emissions and promote sustainability. The firm’s portfolio reflects a strong emphasis on water innovation and decentralized infrastructure, aligning with its overarching thesis of supporting startups that can deliver substantial environmental benefits.
Graham Schwikkard — Partner at CiRi Ventures, Graham has a background in climate technology investments and has led several notable deals in the sector. His expertise lies in identifying innovative startups that align with the firm’s mission of reducing carbon emissions.
David Werner — Partner at CiRi Ventures, David brings extensive experience in venture capital and a strong focus on climate innovation. He has been instrumental in guiding portfolio companies through their growth phases and has a keen interest in water technologies.
To pitch CiRi Ventures, founders should visit their website at ciri.ventures for detailed instructions on the application process. The firm prefers pitches that include a clear articulation of the startup's mission, the innovative solutions being developed, and the potential impact on carbon emissions.
Founders should prepare a comprehensive deck that outlines their business model, market opportunity, and the specific environmental challenges they aim to address. While the firm does not specify a formal application form, a well-structured pitch deck is essential for consideration. Response times may vary, so founders should be patient after submitting their materials.
As of April 2026, CiRi Ventures has been active in the climate tech space, focusing on pre-seed and seed stage investments. The firm co-invested in a $5.2 million seed round for Strong by Form, a Spanish company developing bio-composite structural materials, alongside COREangels Climate.
Portfolio companies have collectively raised over $300 million in follow-on funding, showcasing the potential of CiRi Ventures' investments in the climate sector. The firm continues to seek out startups that can deliver substantial environmental impact through innovative solutions.
What are CiRi Ventures' investment criteria?
CiRi Ventures focuses on early-stage startups in the climate tech sector, particularly those that can significantly reduce carbon emissions. The firm targets companies that aim to eliminate over 50 million tons of CO2e annually, with a strong emphasis on water technologies and decentralized infrastructure.
How can startups apply or pitch to CiRi Ventures?
Startups interested in pitching to CiRi Ventures can visit their website at ciri.ventures for more information on the application process. The firm encourages visionary founders to present their innovative solutions in the climate sector.
What makes CiRi Ventures different from other investors?
CiRi Ventures distinguishes itself by its exclusive focus on climate innovation and its commitment to supporting startups that can deliver substantial environmental impact. The firm employs a dual-lens evaluation system that incorporates both financial metrics and proprietary impact indicators specific to water technologies.
What is the typical check size for investments?
CiRi Ventures typically invests between $1 million and $3 million in its portfolio companies. However, there are indications that the firm may consider check sizes up to $10 million depending on the opportunity.
What is CiRi Ventures' geographic scope?
The firm primarily focuses on startups based in the United States, aligning its investments with local climate challenges and opportunities.
What kind of post-investment involvement does CiRi Ventures have?
CiRi Ventures provides not only capital but also strategic guidance and support to its portfolio companies. The firm leverages its expertise in climate innovation to help startups navigate the complexities of the climate tech landscape.
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