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Counter Culture Ventures (CCV) is a venture capital firm founded to address misaligned incentives within the venture capital ecosystem. Established in 2023, CCV is based in San Francisco and focuses on investing in technologies that promote equity through Generative AI. The firm aims to set a new standard for early-stage venture capital by backing companies that fundamentally change how problems are perceived and addressed.
Currently, CCV manages a portfolio of 8 companies, emphasizing a people-first investment philosophy. The firm is dedicated to supporting innovative founders and 'mavericks' who are working on transformative solutions across various sectors, including AI, healthcare, commerce, logistics, and energy. CCV's commitment to equity-driven solutions is reflected in its diverse portfolio and investment approach.
Counter Culture Ventures invests in early-stage companies that challenge the status quo across multiple industries. The firm primarily focuses on sectors such as AI, healthcare, commerce, logistics, and energy. CCV targets pre-seed, seed, and seed-plus (extension) stages, with check sizes typically ranging from $25,000 to $500,000. The firm seeks to support innovative founders who are committed to creating equitable solutions through transformative technologies, particularly in Generative AI.
CCV emphasizes a people-first investment strategy, looking for founders who demonstrate a strong vision and the ability to disrupt existing paradigms. The firm values accessibility and support for its portfolio companies, aiming to empower those working towards significant societal impact. This approach aligns with CCV's investment thesis, which focuses on technologies that promote equity and challenge traditional industry norms.
Counter Culture Ventures has invested in a diverse array of companies, each contributing to its mission of promoting equity through Generative AI. Notable portfolio companies include:
This portfolio reflects CCV's commitment to investing in technologies that not only drive innovation but also address pressing societal challenges.
Josh Lee: Managing Partner / GP. Josh is a San Francisco-based angel investor turned fund manager. He has built a $7M+ syndicate, with over 40% of his personal portfolio comprising female co-founders. His investment philosophy is centered around a people-first approach, focusing on supporting founders who challenge the status quo.
Sampriti Bhattacharyya: Partner. Sampriti brings expertise in technology and social impact investing, with a strong background in supporting diverse founders.
Calvin Young: Partner. Calvin has experience in venture capital and a track record of investing in early-stage companies across various sectors.
Khoa Tran: Partner. Khoa specializes in operational support for portfolio companies, helping them scale effectively in competitive markets.
When pitching to CCV, founders should clearly articulate how their technology promotes equity and challenges the status quo. Including specific details about the problem being addressed and the innovative aspects of the solution is crucial.
As of March 2026, Counter Culture Ventures has been actively involved in the venture capital space, with a focus on early-stage investments in technologies that promote equity through Generative AI. The firm has recently expanded its portfolio to include companies across diverse sectors, including healthcare and logistics.
Josh Lee's prior angel syndicate portfolio, which has over $7M AUM, has seen follow-on investments from notable firms such as Sequoia, A16Z, Meta, and GFC, indicating a strong signal of deal quality. CCV continues to build its reputation as a reformist early-stage VC, committed to supporting innovative founders and challenging existing paradigms.
What are Counter Culture Ventures' investment criteria?
CCV invests in early-stage companies that challenge the status quo across various sectors, focusing on technologies that promote equity through Generative AI. The firm looks for innovative founders who are committed to creating transformative solutions.
How can I apply or pitch to Counter Culture Ventures?
Founders interested in pitching to CCV should prepare a detailed presentation that outlines their business model, market potential, and how their solution promotes equity. While specific application forms are not mentioned, reaching out via their contact email is recommended.
What makes Counter Culture Ventures different from other VC firms?
CCV emphasizes a people-first investment philosophy, focusing on accessibility and support for founders. The firm is dedicated to backing companies that fundamentally change how problems are perceived and addressed, particularly through Generative AI.
What is the geographic scope of Counter Culture Ventures?
While CCV is based in San Francisco, it has a global deal flow, particularly through its AngelList syndicate, allowing it to invest in innovative companies worldwide.
What is the typical fund size and check size for investments?
CCV's fund size is not publicly disclosed, but typical check sizes for pre-seed, seed, and seed-plus investments range from $25,000 to $500,000.
What kind of post-investment involvement can founders expect?
CCV provides ongoing support to its portfolio companies, emphasizing mentorship and access to resources that can help founders navigate challenges and scale their businesses effectively.
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