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Collab Capital is a venture capital firm founded in 2019 by Barry Givens and Jewel Burks Solomon, based in Atlanta, Georgia. The firm focuses on investing in early-stage companies led by founders from historically overlooked communities, particularly Black-led and Black-owned technology companies. Collab Capital aims to build lasting economic equity through increased ownership in the innovation economy.
As of now, Collab Capital manages over $125 million in assets across two funds. Fund I, which closed in 2021, raised $51 million and supported approximately 38 portfolio companies. Fund II, closed in June 2025, raised $75 million and targets around 30 companies over five years, with 40% of the fund reserved for follow-on investments. The firm has established a strong presence in the venture capital space, emphasizing its commitment to addressing the racial wealth gap.
Collab Capital primarily invests in the seed to Series A stages, concentrating on three thematic areas: Economic Mobility, Community Infrastructure, and Healthcare Access. The firm seeks to support founders from underrepresented backgrounds, particularly those who are Black-led and Black-owned. The geographical focus is primarily on the United States, where the firm aims to foster an inclusive economy.
Investment checks typically range from $500,000 to $1 million initially, with the potential for follow-on investments of up to $2 million. Collab Capital emphasizes a mission-driven approach, aiming to create shared prosperity through its investments. The firm looks for founders who demonstrate resilience, innovation, and a commitment to addressing systemic barriers in their respective industries.
Collab Capital has invested in over 40 portfolio companies, showcasing a diverse range of sectors and innovative solutions. Notable companies include:
Other notable investments from Fund I include Hairbrella, a protective hair accessories company, and Fearless Fund, a VC fund for women of color. Fund II has early investments in SparkCharge, which provides mobile off-grid EV charging for fleets, and River Health, offering affordable telehealth services.
Barry Givens: Co-Founder & Managing Partner. Givens has a background in venture capital and entrepreneurship, with a focus on supporting Black-led startups. He has been instrumental in the firm's growth and strategic direction.
Jewel Burks Solomon: Co-Founder & Managing Partner. Solomon previously served as the Head of Startup Ecosystem at Google and is a well-known figure in the Atlanta tech community. She brings extensive experience in fostering innovation and supporting diverse founders.
Baheejah Crumbley: Principal. Crumbley has a strong background in finance and venture capital, focusing on identifying promising investment opportunities within the firm's thematic areas.
Sydney Holness: Senior Investment Associate. Holness supports the investment team in evaluating potential portfolio companies and managing existing investments.
To pitch Collab Capital, founders should submit their applications through the provided link: Collab Capital application page. The pitch deck should include a clear overview of the business model, market opportunity, team background, and how the startup aligns with the firm's investment thesis.
Collab Capital prefers warm introductions but accepts direct applications as well. Founders can expect a response within a few weeks after submission. It is advisable to ensure that the pitch deck is concise and highlights key metrics and milestones.
In June 2025, Collab Capital successfully closed its $75 million Fund II, which aims to scale its vision for shared prosperity and support Black-led startups. This fund is positioned to target approximately 30 companies over the next five years, with a significant portion reserved for follow-on investments.
Collab Capital has been active in publishing insights through its newsroom, including articles that discuss strategies for service-based businesses to access growth capital. The firm continues to expand its influence and support for Black-led businesses, reinforcing its commitment to addressing the racial wealth gap.
What are Collab Capital's investment criteria?
Collab Capital invests in early-stage companies, specifically those led by Black founders. The firm focuses on sectors such as Economic Mobility, Community Infrastructure, and Healthcare Access. They typically invest in the seed to Series A stages.
How can I apply or pitch to Collab Capital?
Founders can apply through the Collab Capital application page at this link. The application process involves submitting a pitch deck that outlines the business model, market opportunity, and team background.
What makes Collab Capital different from other VC firms?
Collab Capital is mission-driven, focusing exclusively on Black-led and Black-owned technology companies. Their unique approach includes a proprietary investment structure that blends profit-sharing with equity, allowing founders to buy back equity as they return multiples of capital.
What is the geographical scope of Collab Capital's investments?
The firm primarily invests in the United States, targeting startups that address local and national challenges faced by historically overlooked communities.
What kind of support does Collab Capital provide to its portfolio companies?
Collab Capital offers extensive support through various programs, including an Executive-in-Residence Program, Strategic Town Halls, and an Annual Founder's Retreat. They also provide free therapy sessions for founders to support their mental well-being.
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