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Common Metal is an early-stage technology investment organization founded by Tim Kendall and Evan Tato. Established in the United States, the firm focuses on assembling engineering teams and providing support to founders as they build their companies. The organization has a structured approach to investment, emphasizing collaboration and resource sharing to enhance the growth potential of its portfolio companies.
Common Metal operates primarily in the United States and has a diverse portfolio that includes investments in sectors such as AI, frontier technologies, energy, and biotech. The firm is co-founded by experienced partners, indicating a strong foundation for guiding startups through their early stages. Notable milestones include early investments in companies that have since gained significant traction in their respective markets.
Common Metal invests in a variety of sectors, including scientific superintelligence, asteroid mining, quantum computing, bioelectricity, and AI technologies. Their investment strategy emphasizes early-stage opportunities, particularly in innovative fields such as precision psychiatric drug development, DNA sequencing, and sustainable technologies. The firm primarily targets pre-seed, seed, and seed-plus stages, allowing them to engage with startups at critical points in their development.
Common Metal seeks founders who demonstrate a strong vision and the ability to execute on their ideas. The firm values technical expertise and a commitment to innovation, which aligns with their focus on cutting-edge sectors. Deal structures typically involve direct investments, and the firm is open to co-investment opportunities that enhance their portfolio's potential.
Common Metal has invested in several notable companies, including:
These investments highlight Common Metal's commitment to supporting innovative technologies and their potential to disrupt traditional markets. The firm's portfolio reflects a strategic focus on early-stage companies that are positioned to lead in their respective fields.
Tim Kendall: Co-founder and Partner at Common Metal, Tim has a background as the first institutional investor in Pandora, showcasing his experience in early-stage technology investments.
Evan Tato: Co-founder and Partner, Evan brings expertise in technology and investment strategies, contributing to the firm's focus on innovative sectors.
Aubrey Obata: Partner at Common Metal, Aubrey has a strong background in technology investments and supports the firm's mission to assist founders.
Dale Dwelle: Partner, Dale plays a key role in evaluating investment opportunities and providing support to portfolio companies.
Krissi Robinson: Partner, Krissi focuses on identifying promising startups and guiding them through the early stages of growth.
Ron Conway: Advisor, Ron brings extensive experience in venture capital and technology, providing strategic insights to the firm.
Founders interested in pitching to Common Metal should reach out via email to tim@commonmetal.com or evan@commonmetal.com. It is important to include a comprehensive overview of the startup, including the business model, market potential, and team background. A well-structured pitch deck can enhance the chances of receiving a timely response.
As of April 2023, Common Metal continues to focus on early-stage investments in technology sectors, particularly AI and biotech. The firm has not publicly announced any new investments or exits recently, but its existing portfolio remains notable for its early backing of companies like Pandora and Ripple.
Common Metal's commitment to supporting founders in innovative fields positions it well for future growth as the demand for advanced technologies continues to rise.
What are Common Metal's investment criteria?
Common Metal focuses on early-stage investments in sectors such as AI, frontier technologies, energy, and biotech. They look for startups that demonstrate strong technical expertise and innovative ideas, particularly in scientific superintelligence, asteroid mining, quantum computing, and sustainable technologies.
How can founders apply or pitch to Common Metal?
Founders can pitch their ideas by reaching out via email to tim@commonmetal.com or evan@commonmetal.com. It is advisable to include a detailed overview of the business model, market potential, and team background in the pitch.
What makes Common Metal different from other venture capital firms?
Common Metal distinguishes itself through its focus on assembling engineering teams and providing hands-on support to founders. Their expertise in technology and commitment to innovation allows them to add significant value beyond capital.
What is the geographic scope of Common Metal's investments?
The firm primarily invests in startups based in the United States, focusing on early-stage opportunities that align with their investment thesis.
What is the typical check size for investments?
While specific check sizes are not disclosed, Common Metal invests at the pre-seed, seed, and seed-plus stages, indicating a focus on early funding rounds that typically range from tens of thousands to several million dollars.
What kind of post-investment involvement can founders expect?
Common Metal provides ongoing support to portfolio companies, particularly in engineering and technology, helping them scale their operations and navigate challenges as they grow.
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