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Convective Capital is a venture capital firm founded to address the increasing challenges posed by disasters, particularly wildfires. Established in the United States, the firm focuses on improving prevention, response, and recovery methods related to these events. The organization recognizes the growing frequency and scale of wildfires and aims to foster innovation in disaster management.
As the only dedicated wildfire technology venture capital firm, Convective Capital treats wildfire as a standalone climate vertical. This unique positioning allows them to concentrate their efforts on developing integrated solutions that enhance disaster resilience. The firm has successfully raised its first fund, totaling $35 million, and is currently targeting $75 million for its second fund, which is expected to close in January 2025.
Convective Capital's portfolio consists of companies that are at the forefront of fire technology, with a focus on creating an integrated operating system for wildfire resilience. Their approach combines various technologies, including fire detection cameras, suppression drones, and vegetation management tools, to address the multifaceted challenges of wildfire management.
Convective Capital invests in innovative, technology-based solutions specifically aimed at combating wildfires and enhancing disaster management. Their investment strategy includes a focus on sectors related to fire technology, known as Firetech. The firm primarily targets pre-seed and seed stage companies, providing seven-figure checks from their $35 million Fund I.
The organization seeks to support initiatives that improve prevention, response, and recovery efforts in disaster management. Convective Capital's thesis emphasizes the importance of technology in addressing the challenges posed by wildfires, and they actively look for founders who are developing cutting-edge solutions in this space. Their geographic focus is primarily the United States, where the impact of wildfires is increasingly significant.
Convective Capital's portfolio is designed as an integrated operating system for wildfire resilience, combining various technologies to create a comprehensive approach to disaster management. This includes investments in companies that specialize in fire detection, suppression, and vegetation management, ensuring a holistic response to wildfire challenges.
Convective Capital's portfolio includes several notable companies that are pioneering technology solutions for wildfire management:
This portfolio is structured to function as an integrated operating system for wildfire resilience, combining detection, suppression, and prevention technologies to address the complexities of wildfire management.
Bill Clerico, Founder & Managing Partner: Bill Clerico is the former CEO and co-founder of WePay, which was acquired by JPMorgan Chase. He served as Managing Director at JPMorgan Chase post-acquisition. Clerico is an active rural firefighter and a recognized thought leader in climate and wildfire issues, frequently featured in podcasts and interviews.
The team at Convective Capital includes former executives from major tech and space companies, although specific names are not disclosed. This diverse background contributes to the firm's unique approach to wildfire technology investment.
To pitch Convective Capital, founders should visit their website and submit their proposals through the provided channels. It is important to include a detailed pitch deck that outlines the technology, its application in wildfire management, and the team's qualifications. The firm prefers clear and concise presentations that demonstrate the startup's potential impact on disaster management.
Response times may vary, but founders can expect to hear back within a few weeks. Warm introductions are beneficial but not mandatory.
In January 2025, Convective Capital is expected to close its second fund, targeting $75 million to expand its investment in wildfire technology. The firm has been actively deploying capital from its first fund, which has made approximately 15 investments, including notable companies like Gridware and Delos.
Recently, Convective Capital backed OnSight Technology for solar asset thermal event monitoring and invested $1 million in Rhizome, focusing on wildfire risk mitigation. The firm continues to gain attention in the media, particularly following the LA wildfire crisis in January 2025, where Bill Clerico was quoted extensively.
What are Convective Capital's investment criteria?
Convective Capital focuses on technology-based solutions that address wildfire and disaster-related challenges. They primarily invest in pre-seed and seed stage companies, particularly those developing innovative fire technology solutions.
How can I pitch to Convective Capital?
Interested founders can pitch their ideas through Convective Capital's website. They recommend including a clear description of the technology, its application in wildfire management, and the team’s background in the pitch deck.
What makes Convective Capital different from other VCs?
Convective Capital is the only dedicated wildfire technology venture capital firm, treating wildfire management as a standalone climate vertical. This specialization allows them to focus exclusively on developing integrated solutions for wildfire resilience.
What is the geographic scope of Convective Capital's investments?
The firm primarily invests in companies based in the United States, where the impact of wildfires is most pronounced. They are particularly interested in startups that can demonstrate a significant impact in this region.
What kind of post-investment involvement can founders expect?
Convective Capital actively supports its portfolio companies through mentorship and operational guidance. They leverage their expertise in wildfire management to assist founders in navigating challenges and scaling their businesses.
What is the size of Convective Capital's funds?
Convective Capital's first fund raised $35 million, while they are targeting $75 million for their second fund, which is expected to close in January 2025. They typically provide seven-figure checks to their portfolio companies.
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