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The Colorado Impact Fund (CIF) is a venture capital firm established in Denver, Colorado, dedicated to supporting the entrepreneurial and impact ecosystem within the state. Founded to address the unique challenges faced by mission-driven businesses, CIF manages approximately $80 million in assets through its Colorado Impact Fund I and the Colorado Impact Bridge Fund. The firm emphasizes investments in companies that not only demonstrate high growth potential but also contribute positively to their communities.
CIF focuses on Colorado-based companies with scalable business models and a commitment to community improvement. The firm has evolved to become one of the few impact-focused venture capital firms dedicated to a single U.S. state, reflecting its commitment to fostering local entrepreneurship. The firm has built a portfolio of 11 companies, showcasing its active role in the state's economic development.
CIF invests primarily in Colorado companies that exhibit high-growth potential and scalable business models. The firm is industry agnostic but emphasizes mission-driven entrepreneurs and impactful business models. Key sectors of investment include clean energy, education, healthcare, natural foods, and technology. CIF typically invests between $500,000 and $2 million, targeting companies in late seed, Series A, Series B, and growth capital stages.
The firm seeks to partner with entrepreneurs who are committed to community improvement and social impact. CIF's investment strategy is designed to support businesses that not only aim for financial success but also strive to make a positive difference in their communities. This dual focus on profitability and social responsibility sets CIF apart in the venture capital landscape.
CIF's portfolio includes a diverse range of companies that exemplify its mission-driven investment approach. Notable companies include:
Jim Kelley: Founder & Managing Partner. Jim has extensive experience in venture capital and entrepreneurship, having led multiple successful investments in the Colorado region.
Carly Abrahamson: Partner & General Counsel. Carly brings legal expertise and a strong background in compliance and governance to the firm.
Ali Kelley: Principal. Ali focuses on sourcing and evaluating investment opportunities, leveraging her experience in the startup ecosystem.
Grace Oliva: Operating Advisor. Grace provides operational support and strategic guidance to portfolio companies, helping them scale effectively.
Federico Peña: Senior Advisor. Federico offers insights from his extensive background in public service and business leadership.
Scott Reich: Operating Advisor. Scott specializes in operational strategy and growth, assisting portfolio companies in achieving their objectives.
To pitch to the Colorado Impact Fund, founders should visit their website at coloradoimpactfund.com. The firm prefers pitches that clearly outline the business model, growth potential, and community impact. A well-structured deck that includes financial projections and market analysis is essential.
Response times may vary, but CIF encourages warm introductions through their network. Founders should be prepared to discuss their vision and how it aligns with CIF's mission-driven investment philosophy.
As of March 2023, the Colorado Impact Fund continues to actively support the entrepreneurial ecosystem in Colorado. The firm has made significant investments in companies such as Bhakti and SchoolRunner, reflecting its commitment to mission-driven entrepreneurship.
In recent months, CIF has focused on expanding its portfolio, targeting innovative startups in clean energy and healthcare sectors. The firm remains dedicated to enhancing community impact through its investments.
What are the investment criteria for CIF?
CIF invests in Colorado-based companies with scalable business models and a commitment to community improvement. The firm focuses on mission-driven entrepreneurs across various sectors, including clean energy, healthcare, and technology.
How can I apply or pitch to CIF?
Founders can pitch to CIF by visiting their website at coloradoimpactfund.com. The firm encourages entrepreneurs to present their business models and community impact during the pitch.
What makes CIF different from other venture capital firms?
CIF is unique in its focus on mission-driven investments within Colorado. The firm emphasizes community improvement alongside financial returns, making it one of the few impact-focused VCs dedicated to a single state.
What is the geographic scope of CIF's investments?
CIF primarily invests in companies located in Colorado, reflecting its commitment to supporting the local entrepreneurial ecosystem.
What is the typical fund size and check size for CIF?
CIF manages approximately $80 million in assets and typically invests between $500,000 and $2 million in each portfolio company.
What kind of post-investment involvement does CIF have?
CIF provides strategic guidance and support tailored to the unique challenges of mission-driven businesses, leveraging its network to help entrepreneurs scale their operations and enhance community impact.
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