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CR2 Capital Ventures, established in McLean, Virginia, focuses on assisting innovative startups in achieving their potential. Founded by Craig Ellis, the firm leverages his extensive experience in building and exiting startups to support early-stage companies. CR2 Ventures aims to provide not only financial backing but also operational guidance and networking opportunities to help entrepreneurs navigate the complexities of scaling their businesses.
The firm currently manages a portfolio of 10 companies and operates with a focus on early-stage investments, specifically targeting pre-seed, seed, seed-plus, Series A, and Series B stages. CR2 Ventures emphasizes collaboration with its portfolio companies, positioning itself as a partner in their growth journey. The firm is dedicated to fostering relationships with ambitious and visionary founders, ensuring they have the resources and support necessary to succeed.
CR2 Ventures has established itself as a notable player in the venture capital space, with a geographic focus on North America. The firm is located at 1775 Tysons Blvd Suite 500, McLean, VA 22102, USA. Its commitment to operational support and fundraising guidance distinguishes it from other venture capital firms.
CR2 Capital Ventures invests in early-stage companies across a diverse range of sectors, including SaaS, cybersecurity, consumer products, artificial intelligence, and the Internet of Things (IoT). The firm targets investments at various stages, from pre-seed to Series B, allowing it to engage with startups at different points in their development. The typical check size is not publicly disclosed, but the firm is known for its hands-on approach, providing operational expertise alongside capital.
CR2 Ventures emphasizes collaboration with its portfolio companies, aiming to facilitate successful exits through strategic support. The firm looks for ambitious and visionary founders who are committed to building scalable businesses. Its investment thesis revolves around not just providing capital but also offering guidance in fundraising and networking, which are critical for early-stage startups. This dual focus on financial and operational support is a key differentiator for CR2 Ventures in the competitive venture capital landscape.
CR2 Ventures has a diverse portfolio of 10 companies, showcasing its investment strategy across various sectors. Notable portfolio companies include:
Additionally, CR2 Ventures has achieved notable exits with companies such as Burnalong, acquired by Tivity Health, Kindred.AI, acquired by Ocado Group, and Counterflow AI, acquired by LiveAction. These successful exits highlight the firm's ability to identify and support high-potential startups.
Craig Ellis — CEO and Managing Partner. Craig founded CR2 Ventures after gaining extensive experience in the startup ecosystem, where he successfully built and exited multiple companies. His background includes a focus on operational support and fundraising guidance, which he brings to the firm.
To pitch CR2 Ventures, founders should visit their website at cr2ventures.com. The pitch deck should include a comprehensive overview of the business model, market analysis, and the founding team's background. While specific application forms are not mentioned, a well-structured pitch deck is essential.
Response times may vary, but founders can expect to hear back regarding their pitch within a few weeks. Warm introductions are preferred, as they can enhance the likelihood of receiving a timely response.
On January 31, 2023, CR2 Ventures celebrated the acquisition of Burnalong by Tivity Health, marking a significant exit for the firm. Additionally, the firm has made recent investments, including participation in Series E funding for ThreatLocker on April 10, 2025. These activities highlight CR2 Ventures' ongoing commitment to supporting its portfolio companies and achieving successful outcomes.
What are CR2 Ventures' investment criteria?
CR2 Ventures focuses on early-stage investments in sectors such as SaaS, cybersecurity, consumer products, AI, and IoT. The firm seeks ambitious and visionary founders who are committed to building scalable businesses.
How can startups apply or pitch to CR2 Ventures?
Startups can pitch to CR2 Ventures through their website at cr2ventures.com. It is advisable to include a detailed business plan and information about the founding team in the pitch deck.
What makes CR2 Ventures different from other venture capital firms?
CR2 Ventures distinguishes itself by providing not only capital but also operational expertise and hands-on support to its portfolio companies. The firm emphasizes collaboration and aims to facilitate successful exits for its startups.
What is the geographic scope of CR2 Ventures?
The firm primarily invests in North America, focusing on startups based in the United States.
What is the typical check size for investments?
The specific check sizes are not publicly disclosed, but CR2 Ventures invests across various early-stage funding rounds, including pre-seed, seed, seed-plus, Series A, and Series B.
What kind of post-investment involvement does CR2 Ventures have?
CR2 Ventures provides operational support, fundraising guidance, and networking opportunities to its portfolio companies, positioning itself as a partner in their growth journey.
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