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Co Ventures is a pre-seed venture capital fund established in 2023, based in Sydney, Australia. The fund is dedicated to supporting Australian founders who aspire to create globally scalable companies from the outset. It is notable for being the first fund raised by a solo female General Partner in Australia, Maxine Minter, who has a background in early-stage ecosystems and previously worked with Techstars.
The fund has a target size of A$5 million and aims to invest in approximately 33 companies, with a deployment pace of about one investment per month. Co Ventures emphasizes a commitment to diversity and innovation within the venture capital space, focusing on founders who may not fit traditional investment patterns. The fund's philosophy is to 'invest first, stay close,' ensuring active involvement with portfolio companies.
Co Ventures exclusively invests at the pre-seed stage, targeting software-led companies with at least one Australian founder. The fund avoids investments in hardware, biotech, or companies facing high regulatory burdens. Their investment thesis highlights the importance of backing founders who demonstrate grit, clarity, and ambition, particularly in the early stages when ideas are still being developed and markets are undefined.
The typical check size for investments is A$150,000, allowing the fund to support a diverse range of startups while maintaining a focus on quality. Co Ventures operates with a core fund structure complemented by a sidecar syndicate, enabling vetted operators and angels to co-invest alongside the fund. This approach enhances the resources available to portfolio companies and aligns with their mission to nurture ambitious entrepreneurs in Australia.
Maxine Minter - General Partner; Maxine is Australia's first solo female General Partner and has a background in early-stage ecosystems, previously working with Techstars. She is an active speaker and has been featured by AirTree Ventures.
Alexey - General Partner; Alexey brings experience from various roles in the venture capital space, contributing to the fund's strategic direction and investment decisions.
To pitch Co Ventures, founders should visit their website at coventures.vc. It is recommended to include a detailed business plan, highlighting the potential for global scalability and the unique aspects of the startup. Founders should be prepared for a thorough evaluation process, as Co Ventures aims to invest in companies that align with their investment thesis.
Response times may vary, but founders can expect to hear back regarding their pitch within a few weeks. Warm introductions are preferred, especially from individuals within the startup ecosystem.
In April 2023, Co Ventures announced the launch of its A$5 million fund, marking a significant milestone as Australia's first specialist pre-seed fund. The fund aims to support Australian founders in building globally scalable software-led companies.
Maxine Minter has been featured in various media outlets, including Startup Daily and FunderLyst, discussing the importance of diversity in venture capital and the unique approach of Co Ventures.
What are Co Ventures' investment criteria?
Co Ventures focuses on pre-seed investments in software-led companies with at least one Australian founder. They do not invest in hardware, biotech, or companies facing high regulatory burdens.
How can founders apply or pitch to Co Ventures?
Founders can pitch to Co Ventures through their website at coventures.vc. It is advisable to include a clear business plan and demonstrate the potential for global scalability.
What makes Co Ventures different from other VC firms?
Co Ventures is distinguished by being Australia's first specialist pre-seed fund and the first fund raised by a solo female General Partner. Their focus on supporting diverse founders and their 'invest first, stay close' philosophy sets them apart.
What is the geographic scope of Co Ventures?
The fund primarily invests in Australia, specifically targeting startups with at least one Australian founder.
What is the typical check size for investments?
Co Ventures typically invests A$150,000 per deal, allowing them to support a range of early-stage startups effectively.
What kind of support do portfolio companies receive?
Co Ventures provides not only capital but also belief capital, networks, and infrastructure to help founders navigate the early stages of their ventures. They remain actively involved with their portfolio companies, offering support and guidance as needed.
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