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Cornerstone VC is a venture capital firm based in London, England, founded to support early-stage technology companies. Established with a commitment to a people-first approach, the firm aims to bridge the equity funding gap for founders often overlooked by traditional venture capital. Cornerstone VC operates as a limited liability partnership and is authorized and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.
The firm currently manages a fund size of $25 million and targets investments primarily in the pre-seed to pre-Series A stages. Cornerstone VC has a portfolio of 10 companies and aims to expand its reach to up to 40 portfolio companies, with a significant proportion located outside of London. Their mission emphasizes backing diverse teams and companies with international ambitions, reflecting their commitment to inclusivity in the startup ecosystem.
Cornerstone VC invests in high-growth technology and tech-enabled businesses, focusing on sectors such as healthcare, climate, logistics, proptech, SaaS, AI, fintech, edtech, consumer, and web3. The firm primarily targets pre-seed and seed stages, with initial check sizes ranging from £250,000 to £1,000,000 per company. Their investment strategy is built around three thematic pillars: Live, Work, and Play, which encompass Health Tech, Carbon Tech, Supply Chain and Logistics, PropTech, Enterprise Software, Machine Learning/AI, Fintech, EdTech, Networks & Marketplaces, Online Communities, Web 3.0, Adtech, and Martech.
Cornerstone VC prioritizes team diversity as a primary investment signal, aiming to address the equity funding gap for founders overlooked by mainstream VC. The firm encourages direct connections from founders through an open VC culture, allowing for a more accessible pitching process. Their focus on diverse teams not only enhances innovation but also aligns with their mission to support underrepresented founders in the UK.
Cornerstone VC's portfolio includes notable companies across various sectors, showcasing their commitment to diverse and innovative startups. Key portfolio companies include:
This diverse portfolio reflects Cornerstone VC's strategy of investing in high-growth technology companies that are led by diverse teams.
Rodney Appiah: Managing Partner at Cornerstone VC, Rodney has a background in venture capital and entrepreneurship. He focuses on supporting diverse teams and has led numerous successful investments in early-stage technology companies.
Edwin Appiah: General Partner, Edwin brings extensive experience in technology investments and has a strong commitment to promoting diversity within the startup ecosystem.
Wilfred Fianko: General Partner, Wilfred has a background in finance and technology, focusing on identifying high-potential startups in various sectors.
Vanessa Mbamalu: Associate, Vanessa supports the investment team with research and analysis, contributing to the firm's commitment to diversity and inclusion.
Susannah Nicklin: Investment Committee Member, Susannah provides strategic insights and guidance based on her extensive experience in venture capital.
Oksana Stowe: Investment Committee Member, Oksana brings expertise in technology investments and supports the firm's mission to back diverse teams.
Nat Falconer: Venture Partner, Nat has a strong background in entrepreneurship and technology, focusing on supporting portfolio companies.
Dean Forbes: Board Member, Dean provides strategic oversight and guidance to the firm, leveraging his extensive experience in the industry.
Lord Dr. Michael Hastings CBE: Board Member, Lord Hastings brings a wealth of experience in leadership and social impact, supporting Cornerstone VC's mission.
To pitch Cornerstone VC, founders should use the online submission form available on their website. The pitch deck should include key information about the business model, market opportunity, team diversity, and financial projections. Cornerstone VC values direct connections and encourages founders to reach out without needing a warm introduction.
Response times can vary, but the firm aims to provide feedback promptly to ensure that founders are not left waiting for extended periods. Clear and concise communication in the pitch is essential to capture the firm's interest.
Cornerstone VC operates an 'Open VC' culture, allowing founders to pitch their ideas through a simple online form. This program encourages accessibility and direct connections between founders and the firm.
Additionally, Cornerstone VC has established the 'Cornerstone Origins' program, which focuses on supporting early-stage founders through mentorship and resources. They also have an 'Expert Network' that connects portfolio companies with operators and advisors for additional support.
In January 2026, Cornerstone VC announced a significant investment in **Evaro**, which raised $25 million in Series A funding. This investment highlights the firm's commitment to supporting high-growth health tech companies.
In February 2026, Cornerstone VC participated in a funding round for **Smart Bricks**, which raised $5 million for AI infrastructure in real estate. This investment reflects the firm's focus on innovative technology solutions.
Additionally, Cornerstone VC has been active in publishing updates on their blog, covering various funding rounds and company highlights, further demonstrating their engagement with the startup ecosystem.
What are Cornerstone VC's investment criteria?
Cornerstone VC focuses on high-growth technology and tech-enabled businesses at the pre-seed and seed stages. They prioritize team diversity as a key investment signal and seek companies across various sectors, including healthcare, climate, logistics, proptech, SaaS, AI, fintech, edtech, consumer, and web3.
How can founders pitch to Cornerstone VC?
Founders can pitch their ideas through Cornerstone VC's open VC culture by submitting their proposals via a simple online form available on their website. This approach encourages direct connections and accessibility for founders.
What makes Cornerstone VC different from other investors?
Cornerstone VC emphasizes a people-first investment strategy, focusing on supporting diverse teams and addressing the equity funding gap for founders often overlooked by traditional venture capital. Their commitment to inclusivity and diversity sets them apart in the venture capital landscape.
What is the typical check size for investments?
Cornerstone VC typically invests between £250,000 and £1,000,000 per company, depending on the stage and needs of the startup.
What is Cornerstone VC's geographic focus?
The firm primarily invests in early-stage technology companies located throughout the United Kingdom, with a significant focus on supporting founders outside of London.
What kind of support do portfolio companies receive?
Cornerstone VC provides access to a network of resources, expertise, and mentorship to help portfolio companies scale effectively. They also offer support for talent acquisition and strategic funding assistance.
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