Discover if this is a suitable investor for your startup. If they are we'll make a warm introduction for free. Otherwise, we'll connect you with matching investors.
Cornerstone VC is a venture capital firm founded in London, England, with a mission to support early-stage technology companies. Established to back diverse teams, the firm operates as a limited liability partnership and is authorized and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Cornerstone VC focuses on high-growth technology and tech-enabled businesses, primarily investing at the pre-seed to pre-Series A stages.
The firm has a strong commitment to fostering innovation across various sectors, including healthcare, climate, logistics, proptech, and fintech. Cornerstone VC has built a reputation for its people-first approach, encouraging direct connections from founders and promoting an open VC culture. The firm is actively engaged in the startup ecosystem, providing resources and support to its portfolio companies.
As of now, Cornerstone VC has not disclosed specific fund sizes or portfolio counts, but it continues to expand its reach and impact within the UK startup landscape. Their office is located at 10 Orange Street, Haymarket, London, WC2H 7DQ.
Cornerstone VC invests in high-growth technology and tech-enabled businesses, primarily targeting the pre-seed and seed stages. Their investment strategy emphasizes backing diverse teams and companies with international ambitions. The firm operates across a wide range of sectors, including Health Tech, Carbon Tech, Supply Chain and Logistics, PropTech, Enterprise Software, Machine Learning/AI, Fintech, Ed Tech, Networks & Marketplaces, Online Communities, Web 3.0, Adtech, and Martech.
Cornerstone VC seeks to identify companies that demonstrate strong growth potential and innovative solutions within these sectors. They prioritize investments in teams that are diverse and inclusive, reflecting their commitment to supporting underrepresented founders. The firm encourages founders to approach them with unique ideas and business models that align with their investment thesis.
Cornerstone VC has invested in a variety of notable companies across different sectors. Their portfolio includes:
These companies reflect Cornerstone VC's focus on high-growth technology and tech-enabled businesses, showcasing their commitment to diverse teams and innovative solutions.
Rodney Appiah: Managing Partner with extensive experience in venture capital and a background in technology investments.
Edwin Appiah: General Partner, known for his expertise in early-stage investments and a strong focus on supporting diverse teams.
Wilfred Fianko: General Partner with a background in technology and finance, contributing to the firm's strategic direction.
Vanessa Mbamalu: Associate, involved in sourcing and evaluating potential investments.
Susannah Nicklin: Investment Committee Member, bringing insights from her experience in the startup ecosystem.
Oksana Stowe: Investment Committee Member with a focus on technology-driven businesses.
Nat Falconer: Venture Partner, providing guidance on investment strategies and portfolio management.
Dean Forbes: Board Member with a strong background in business development and strategic growth.
Lord Dr. Michael Hastings CBE: Board Member, recognized for his contributions to social impact and diversity in business.
Founders interested in pitching to Cornerstone VC should use the simple online form available on their website. It is essential to include a clear overview of the business model, market opportunity, and team background in the pitch deck. Cornerstone VC values direct connections and encourages founders to reach out without needing a warm introduction.
Response times may vary, but the firm is committed to engaging with founders promptly. They appreciate concise and well-structured pitches that clearly outline the startup's vision and growth potential.
Cornerstone VC operates an 'Open VC' culture, allowing founders to pitch their ideas through a simple online form. This program encourages transparency and accessibility in the investment process. Additionally, the firm provides support for talent acquisition and HR consultancy, helping startups build strong teams as they grow.
Founders interested in engaging with Cornerstone VC can apply through their online platform, which streamlines the pitching process and fosters direct connections between investors and entrepreneurs.
In recent months, Cornerstone VC has been actively engaged in the startup ecosystem. Notably, Evaro raised $25 million in Series A funding, showcasing the firm's commitment to supporting high-growth technology companies. Additionally, Smart Bricks secured $5 million for AI infrastructure in real estate, further highlighting Cornerstone VC's involvement in significant funding rounds.
Cornerstone VC continues to publish updates on their blog, covering various topics related to funding rounds and company highlights, reflecting their ongoing engagement with portfolio companies and the broader market.
What are Cornerstone VC's investment criteria?
Cornerstone VC invests in high-growth technology and tech-enabled businesses primarily at the pre-seed and seed stages. They focus on diverse teams and companies with international ambitions across various sectors.
How can founders pitch their ideas to Cornerstone VC?
Founders can pitch their ideas through a simple online form as part of Cornerstone VC's open VC culture. They encourage direct connections and value innovative business models.
What makes Cornerstone VC different from other venture capital firms?
Cornerstone VC emphasizes a people-first approach, supporting diverse teams and fostering an inclusive environment for founders. Their commitment to transparency and accessibility sets them apart in the VC landscape.
What is the geographic scope of Cornerstone VC's investments?
Cornerstone VC primarily invests in early-stage technology companies located throughout the United Kingdom, not limited to London. They aim to support startups across various regions.
What kind of post-investment involvement does Cornerstone VC have?
Cornerstone VC provides support for talent acquisition, HR consultancy, and strategic funding assistance to their portfolio companies, ensuring they have the resources needed for growth.
What is the typical check size for Cornerstone VC's investments?
While specific check sizes are not disclosed, Cornerstone VC focuses on early-stage investments, typically at the pre-seed and seed stages, which suggests smaller initial investments compared to later-stage funding.
All trademarks, logos and brand names are the property of their respective owners. All company, product and service names used in this website are for identification purposes only. Use of these names, trademarks, and brands does not imply endorsement.