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Cyrus Ventures is a US-based venture capital firm founded by Jordan Yashari, focusing on early-stage investments in the defense and advanced energy sectors. The firm was established to provide entrepreneurs with capital, technical expertise, and guidance to build resilient industries that enhance global security. Cyrus Ventures operates primarily within the United States and has a strong emphasis on supporting founder vision.
The firm is distinguished by its team, which includes veterans from SpaceX and NASA, providing deep technical diligence and support to portfolio companies. This unique combination of experience allows Cyrus Ventures to navigate the complexities of the defense and energy sectors effectively. The firm has not publicly disclosed its assets under management or fund sizes, but it is known for its hands-on approach and founder-friendly governance.
Notable milestones include the successful backing of companies like Anduril Industries, which has achieved a valuation exceeding $30 billion. Cyrus Ventures continues to engage with the startup community through initiatives like their monthly blog series, 'Cyrus Ventures Radar,' which shares insights and updates on their portfolio and the sectors they operate in.
Cyrus Ventures primarily invests in the defense and advanced energy sectors, with a particular focus on early-stage companies. The firm targets investments at the pre-seed, seed, and seed+ (extension) stages, allowing for flexibility in funding approaches. Check sizes are not publicly disclosed, but the firm emphasizes a founder-friendly governance model that prioritizes the vision of entrepreneurs.
The investment strategy is anchored in the belief that resilient industries are essential for enhancing global security and promoting sustainable energy solutions. Cyrus Ventures leverages the technical expertise of its team, which includes professionals with backgrounds from SpaceX and NASA, to provide critical insights and support to portfolio companies. This technical diligence is a key differentiator for the firm, enabling it to foster innovation in sectors that are vital for national security and energy sustainability.
Cyrus Ventures has built a diverse portfolio of companies within the defense and advanced energy sectors. Notable investments include:
This portfolio reflects Cyrus Ventures' commitment to investing in impactful sectors that enhance global security and promote sustainable energy solutions.
Jordan Yashari — Founder and General Partner. Jordan has a background in venture capital and a strong focus on early-stage investments in defense and energy sectors.
Bob Urberger — Co-founder of Radiant, Venture Partner. Bob has over 12 years of experience as a senior avionics engineer at SpaceX.
Neil Mason — Former Head of Engineering at Antares, Venture Partner. Neil has over 6 years of experience as a flight software engineer at SpaceX.
Dr. Andrew Shapiro — Co-founder of Proteus Space, Venture Partner. Andrew has 20 years of experience at NASA JPL and has served as a professor at Caltech and UCI for 26 years.
Meharban Sobti — Principal Controls Engineer at Antares, Venture Partner. Meharban has led propulsion efforts for over 120 launches at SpaceX.
To pitch to Cyrus Ventures, founders should visit their website at cyrusvc.com. The firm prefers pitches that clearly outline the startup's vision, business model, and alignment with their investment focus in defense and advanced energy sectors. A well-structured deck that highlights the team's expertise and market potential is essential.
While specific response time expectations are not disclosed, founders should anticipate a thorough review process given the firm's emphasis on technical diligence. Warm introductions are beneficial but not strictly necessary.
In recent months, Cyrus Ventures has been active in the startup ecosystem, publishing a monthly blog series titled 'Cyrus Ventures Radar.' The latest posts date back to February 2026, indicating ongoing engagement with their audience and insights into their investment focus.
Additionally, the firm has made notable investments in companies such as Arbor Energy, Icarus, Stoke Space, and Anduril Industries, reflecting their commitment to supporting impactful sectors. The selection of Stoke Space for NSSL Phase 3 and the significant valuation of Anduril Industries highlight the firm's strategic positioning within the defense and advanced energy markets.
What are Cyrus Ventures' investment criteria?
Cyrus Ventures focuses on early-stage companies in the defense and advanced energy sectors. They prioritize investments that align with their mission of enhancing global security and promoting sustainable energy solutions. The firm looks for founders with a clear vision and the ability to navigate the complexities of their respective industries.
How can I apply or pitch to Cyrus Ventures?
Founders interested in pitching to Cyrus Ventures can visit their website at cyrusvc.com for more information. The firm encourages entrepreneurs to present their vision and business model clearly, highlighting how their company aligns with the firm's investment focus.
What makes Cyrus Ventures different from other VC firms?
Cyrus Ventures differentiates itself through its deep technical expertise and hands-on approach. The team includes veterans from SpaceX and NASA, providing critical insights and support to portfolio companies. This technical diligence allows the firm to effectively navigate the challenges faced by startups in the defense and energy sectors.
What is the geographic scope of Cyrus Ventures' investments?
The firm primarily invests in companies based in the United States, focusing on sectors that are critical to national security and energy sustainability.
What is the typical check size for investments?
While specific check sizes are not publicly disclosed, Cyrus Ventures invests across a range of stages from pre-seed to growth equity, indicating a flexible approach to funding.
What kind of post-investment involvement can founders expect?
Cyrus Ventures takes a founder-friendly approach, providing ongoing support and technical expertise to portfolio companies. The firm emphasizes collaboration and guidance to help entrepreneurs navigate challenges and accelerate growth.
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