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Cultivation Capital is a venture capital firm founded in 2012 and based in St. Louis, Missouri. The firm manages a family of funds that focus on early-stage investing, primarily during the Seed and Series A phases. Cultivation Capital has grown to a team of 48 members, including 31 partners, and has established a significant presence in the startup ecosystem.
As of now, Cultivation Capital has invested in 155 companies, achieving notable milestones such as 1 unicorn, 2 IPOs, and 33 acquisitions. The firm emphasizes building an inclusive portfolio, having invested in startups across over 25 states and countries. Their AgTech Fund IV, which has a size of $20 million, reflects their commitment to supporting agriculture technology innovations.
Cultivation Capital invests in early-stage companies, typically from the Seed stage through Series B. Their investment range is between $100,000 and $3.5 million. The firm focuses on several sectors, including:
Cultivation Capital leads approximately 50% of the investment rounds in which it participates. Their investment strategy is designed to support transformative companies that have the potential to change the way we live and work.
Cultivation Capital has built a diverse portfolio of 155 companies across various sectors. Notable portfolio companies include:
In the last 12 months, Cultivation Capital has made 6 investments, including a recent Series B investment in Hydrosat on January 15, 2026. The firm has a strong track record of leading investment rounds and actively participating in the growth of its portfolio companies.
Brian Matthews: Cofounder & General Partner. He has extensive experience in venture capital and has been instrumental in the firm's growth since its inception.
Cliff Holekamp: Cofounder & General Partner. He brings a wealth of knowledge in entrepreneurship and investment strategies.
Jim McKelvey: Cofounder & General Partner. Known for his role as co-founder of Square, he has a strong background in technology and innovation.
Kyle Welborn: Cofounder & General Partner. He has a focus on operational support and strategic growth for portfolio companies.
Peter Esparrago: Cofounder & General Partner. He specializes in early-stage investments and has a keen eye for transformative ideas.
Rick Holton Jr.: Cofounder & General Partner. He has a strong background in finance and investment management.
Scott Addonizio: General Partner. He has led numerous successful investments in the technology sector.
Joel Crater: General Partner. He focuses on software and IT investments, bringing valuable insights to the firm.
Andy Dearing: General Partner. He has experience in both operational roles and venture capital.
Caleb Eidem: General Counsel. He provides legal guidance and support to the firm and its portfolio companies.
Martha Gallagher: Of Counsel. She offers strategic advice and support to the firm's investment activities.
Sean Morris: General Partner. He has a strong background in finance and investment strategy.
Heather Wood: General Partner. She focuses on building relationships with portfolio companies and investors.
To pitch to Cultivation Capital, founders should use the contact form available at cultivationcapital.com/contact or email info@cultivationcapital.com. It is important to include a comprehensive deck that outlines the business model, market opportunity, and team qualifications. Response times may vary, but founders can expect to hear back within a few weeks.
Cultivation Capital collaborates with the Yield Lab to support agtech investments. The Yield Lab focuses on companies innovating in agriculture and food technology. They have launched the H.A.R.V.E.S.T. AgTech program, which aims to accelerate resources and funding for agtech startups.
On January 15, 2026, Cultivation Capital made a notable investment in Hydrosat during their Series B funding round. This investment reflects the firm's ongoing commitment to supporting innovative companies in the technology sector.
In the past year, Cultivation Capital has participated in 6 investments, showcasing their active engagement in the startup ecosystem. Recent highlights include leading a $2.2 million investment in Force Equals and a $4.25 million seed round raised by Bluprynt.
What are Cultivation Capital's investment criteria?
Cultivation Capital invests in early-stage companies primarily in the Seed and Series A stages. They focus on sectors such as life sciences, software, agriculture technology, and geospatial technology, with check sizes ranging from $100,000 to $3.5 million.
How can I apply or pitch to Cultivation Capital?
Founders can pitch to Cultivation Capital through their website at cultivationcapital.com/contact or via email at info@cultivationcapital.com. It is recommended to provide a detailed overview of the business model, market opportunity, and team background in the pitch.
What makes Cultivation Capital different from other VC firms?
Cultivation Capital emphasizes building an inclusive portfolio and has invested in startups across over 25 states and countries. They lead approximately 50% of the rounds they participate in, providing not just capital but also a large network of partners and investors.
What is the geographic scope of Cultivation Capital's investments?
The firm invests in North America, the United States, and globally, focusing on transformative companies in various sectors.
What is Cultivation Capital's post-investment involvement?
Cultivation Capital actively participates on the boards of its portfolio companies, providing operational support and leveraging its extensive network to help startups grow.
What is the typical fund size and check size for Cultivation Capital?
The firm manages multiple funds, including the AgTech Fund IV, which is $20 million. Their typical check size ranges from $100,000 to $3.5 million.
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