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D3VC.ai is a venture capital firm established in 2023 and headquartered in Denver, Colorado. Founded by Sherwood Neiss, a recognized pioneer in investment crowdfunding, the firm focuses on early-stage investments. D3VC.ai employs artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms to analyze a proprietary dataset of over 8,000 crowdfunding campaigns, allowing them to identify promising startups, particularly those led by women and minority founders.
The firm operates a $5 million fund, which aims to invest in 200 target companies raising capital through online platforms, specifically in the realm of Regulation Crowdfunding. D3VC.ai's mission is to transform the venture capital landscape by supporting diverse founders and enhancing the performance of its portfolio through data-driven insights.
D3VC.ai invests primarily in early-stage companies that are raising funds through investment crowdfunding, with a strong emphasis on sectors such as healthcare, biotechnology, energy, logistics, and financial services. The firm targets startups at the pre-seed and seed stages, typically providing check sizes around $25,000. D3VC.ai's investment strategy is particularly focused on supporting underrepresented founders, aiming to achieve liquidity through follow-on investments in later-stage venture capital.
The firm utilizes its AI-driven insights to identify startups that are most likely to secure follow-on institutional funding. This approach not only diversifies their investment portfolio but also enhances the overall performance of their investments. D3VC.ai's commitment to supporting diverse founders is a cornerstone of their investment thesis, which seeks to create a more inclusive venture capital environment.
D3VC.ai has built a diverse portfolio of 19 companies across various sectors. Notable portfolio companies include:
This diverse portfolio reflects D3VC.ai's commitment to investing in a wide range of sectors while emphasizing support for underrepresented founders.
Sherwood Neiss: Founder of D3VC.ai, Sherwood is a pioneer in investment crowdfunding and played a significant role in drafting the JOBS Act. His expertise lies in identifying investment opportunities in early-stage companies.
Steve Biafore: A serial entrepreneur with a focus on AI startups, Steve brings extensive experience in technology and innovation to the firm.
Lewis Katz: An expert in investment funds and fintech, Lewis contributes valuable insights into financial services and investment strategies.
Jason Best: As a Venture Partner, Jason specializes in Regulation Crowdfunding, providing guidance on compliance and fundraising strategies.
Sudalai Rajkumar: A quadruple Kaggle Grandmaster in AI and machine learning, Sudalai enhances D3VC.ai's data-driven investment approach.
Joseph Puccio: An entrepreneur with expertise in wholesale distribution, Joseph adds operational insights to support portfolio companies.
To pitch D3VC.ai, founders should submit their proposals through the contact form available on their website. It is essential to include a detailed pitch deck that outlines the business model, market analysis, and team background. D3VC.ai prefers warm introductions but will consider direct submissions.
Response times may vary, but founders can expect to hear back within a few weeks. Clear communication and a well-structured pitch are crucial for capturing the firm's interest.
In March 2026, D3VC.ai announced the successful launch of its first fund, which aims to invest in 200 target companies through investment crowdfunding. The fund, which has a total size of $5 million, focuses on early-stage startups led by underrepresented founders.
As of December 2025, D3VC.ai reported a 1.18x multiple on invested capital (MOIC) across its portfolio, reflecting an 18% gain in just 18 months. The firm also noted a median revenue growth of 169% among its portfolio companies, showcasing the effectiveness of its AI-driven investment strategy.
What are D3VC.ai's investment criteria?
D3VC.ai focuses on early-stage companies raising funds through investment crowdfunding, particularly those led by underrepresented founders. They invest in sectors such as healthcare, biotech, energy, logistics, and financial services.
How can I pitch to D3VC.ai?
Founders can pitch to D3VC.ai through their website. It is recommended to include a clear business model, market analysis, and details on how the startup aligns with D3VC.ai's focus on underrepresented founders.
What makes D3VC.ai different from other venture capital firms?
D3VC.ai utilizes artificial intelligence and machine learning to identify promising startups, focusing on those led by women and minority founders. This data-driven approach sets them apart in the venture capital space.
What is the typical check size for investments?
D3VC.ai typically invests around $25,000 in each startup, aiming to support a total of 200 companies through their $5 million fund.
What is the geographic focus of D3VC.ai?
The firm primarily invests in startups located in the United States, emphasizing a diverse range of sectors.
What kind of support does D3VC.ai provide to portfolio companies?
D3VC.ai offers follow-on investments and leverages AI-driven insights to enhance the performance of its portfolio companies, focusing on their growth and potential for future funding.
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