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Ecosphere Ventures is a venture capital firm based in Houston, Texas, founded in 2022. The firm specializes in investing in climatetech and sustainability solutions, operating primarily at the Pre-Seed through late-Seed stages. Ecosphere Ventures aims to support both deeptech and software-based innovations, positioning itself as a distinctive player in the climatetech venture capital landscape.
Currently, Ecosphere Ventures manages a portfolio of 26 companies, reflecting its commitment to driving impactful change through investments in critical areas such as energy, food, and industrial technologies. The firm is dedicated to working with first-time and under-networked entrepreneurs, enhancing their chances of success in a competitive market. Ecosphere Ventures is also a member of the Rice Alliance, which connects it to Houston's academic and energy ecosystems.
Ecosphere Ventures invests across a diverse range of sectors related to climatetech and sustainability. Key sectors include energy generation and storage, transportation and mobility, building and construction technology, food and agtech, carbon technology, software and sensors, autonomy/AI, industrial technology, and sustainability and circular economy. The firm targets early-stage companies, specifically from Pre-Seed to late-Seed stages, emphasizing its commitment to supporting first-time and under-networked entrepreneurs.
The firm seeks to drive impactful change through its investments, focusing on transformative solutions that address climate change and promote sustainability. Ecosphere Ventures looks for founders who demonstrate a strong vision and commitment to their projects, particularly those who may lack extensive networks. The firm provides essential resources and guidance to enhance the success of its portfolio companies.
Ecosphere Ventures has built a diverse portfolio of 26 companies, showcasing its commitment to various sectors within climatetech and sustainability. Notable investments include:
This portfolio reflects Ecosphere Ventures' dual focus on deeptech and software innovations, aligning with its investment thesis aimed at addressing climate challenges.
Adil Jafry - General Partner with a background in venture capital and technology, focusing on climatetech investments.
Russ Conser - Venture Partner with experience in energy and sustainability sectors.
Steven Gonzalez - Team member with expertise in venture capital.
Brenda LeMay - Team member contributing to investment strategies.
Farhan Musharrif - Team member with a focus on operational support.
Adeo Ressi - Team member with a background in entrepreneurship.
Mark Russ - Team member with experience in technology investments.
Mike Suprovici - Team member with expertise in business development.
Katie Swanson - Team member contributing to portfolio management.
Aruna Viswanathan - Team member with a focus on sustainability.
Advisors include Easwar Ayyar, Hon. Sada Cumber, Christine Cockrell, Ayaz Haque, John Kermath, Hon. Kevin O'Connell, Daniel Schmidt, Chris Stott, Ron Ticker, and Dr. William Edmonson, who bring diverse expertise to the firm.
To pitch Ecosphere Ventures, founders should utilize the contact form available at https://ecosphere.vc/contacts/ or email info@ecosphere.vc. The pitch deck should include a clear overview of the startup's mission, market opportunity, and team. Founders should expect a response within a reasonable timeframe, although specific timelines are not disclosed. Warm introductions are beneficial but not mandatory.
As of July 30, 2025, Ecosphere Ventures made a notable investment in Solidec, a company specializing in electrical equipment. Prior to this, the firm participated in a $1.5M Pre-Seed round for Tierra Climate. Other significant investments include NearStar Fusion, a fusion energy power plant developer, and Phoenix Hydrogen, which focuses on hydrogen solutions. The firm has also co-invested alongside IndieBio in Edge and has backed Vaulted Deep and MonArk Innovations.
Ecosphere Ventures continues to actively engage with the climatetech ecosystem, emphasizing its commitment to innovative solutions that combat climate change. The firm is recognized for its inclusive approach, particularly in supporting first-time and under-networked entrepreneurs.
What are Ecosphere Ventures' investment criteria?
Ecosphere Ventures invests in early-stage companies, specifically from Pre-Seed to late-Seed stages, focusing on climatetech and sustainability solutions. The firm emphasizes support for first-time and under-networked entrepreneurs.
How can startups apply or pitch to Ecosphere Ventures?
Startups can apply by visiting the Ecosphere Ventures contact page at https://ecosphere.vc/contacts/ or by emailing info@ecosphere.vc. The firm encourages detailed pitches that outline the startup's vision and impact.
What makes Ecosphere Ventures different from other venture firms?
Ecosphere Ventures uniquely focuses on supporting first-time and under-networked entrepreneurs, providing them with essential resources and guidance to succeed in the climatetech space.
What is the geographic scope of Ecosphere Ventures?
The firm primarily invests in North America, leveraging its Houston base to access a rich network of energy and climatetech opportunities.
What is the typical check size for investments?
While specific check sizes are not disclosed, Ecosphere Ventures participates in early-stage funding rounds, which typically range from Pre-Seed to late-Seed investments.
What kind of post-investment involvement does Ecosphere Ventures have?
Ecosphere Ventures adds value to its portfolio companies by providing strategic guidance, facilitating connections within the energy ecosystem, and supporting operational needs.
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