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Elevate Ventures is a venture capital firm founded in 2011 and headquartered in Indianapolis, Indiana. The firm originated as a spin-out from the Indiana Economic Development Corporation (IEDC), established by Governor Mitch Daniels. Elevate Ventures is committed to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship, particularly within Indiana, by providing essential funding and support to high-potential startups.
As of now, Elevate Ventures manages a portfolio of over 600 companies, making it one of the most active venture capital firms in Indiana. The firm focuses on early-stage investments, primarily in the consumer sector, while also engaging in software, life sciences, and hard technology. Elevate Ventures has a strong emphasis on driving economic growth and job creation in the region, serving 86 counties and assisting nearly 4,000 companies since its inception.
Elevate Ventures invests in early-stage companies across various sectors, including software, life sciences, hard technology, and consumer products. The firm targets companies with a total addressable market (TAM) of $500 million or more. Their investment strategy encompasses pre-seed, seed, and Series A funding, with check sizes ranging from $20,000 to $2 million per round, and total investments reaching up to $8 million per company, depending on the stage and growth potential of the business.
Elevate Ventures seeks to partner with founders who demonstrate strong potential for growth and innovation. The firm provides funding through convertible notes or equity, and it emphasizes cross-sector innovation. Their approach includes not only financial support but also strategic resources to help startups navigate challenges and achieve their business objectives.
Elevate Ventures has invested in over 600 startups, showcasing a diverse portfolio that includes notable companies such as:
This extensive portfolio reflects Elevate Ventures' commitment to supporting high-potential startups across multiple sectors, particularly in Indiana.
Toph Day: CEO of Elevate Ventures, Toph has extensive experience in venture capital and entrepreneurship, focusing on supporting high-potential startups.
Myles Grote: Partner at Elevate Ventures, Myles specializes in early-stage investments and has a strong background in technology and innovation.
Jay Harmas: Director of Portfolio Success, Jay works closely with portfolio companies to ensure they receive the support needed for growth.
Andie Hines-Lagemann: Director of Engagement and EQ Practitioner, Andie focuses on building relationships within the entrepreneurial community.
Chris Huxhold: Vice President of Finance, Chris manages financial operations and investment strategies at Elevate Ventures.
Asa Kelly: Vice President of Investment Operations & Portfolio Analytics, Asa oversees investment processes and portfolio performance analysis.
Brighid King: Platform Operations Manager, Brighid coordinates various initiatives to support portfolio companies.
Nicholas Kuhn: Vice President of Hardtech, Nicholas focuses on investments in hard technology sectors.
Phil Lodato: General Counsel and Chief Compliance Officer, Phil ensures legal compliance and governance within the firm.
Cy Megnin: Vice President of Software, Cy specializes in software investments and supports tech-focused startups.
Makenzie Norris: Vice President of Life Sciences, Makenzie focuses on investments in the life sciences sector.
Jacob Schpok: Partner and Head of Platform, Jacob leads initiatives to enhance portfolio company success.
Erica Schweyer: Chief of Staff, Erica supports the executive team and manages operational functions.
To pitch Elevate Ventures, founders should submit their applications through the designated channel on their website. The pitch deck should include essential information such as the business model, market opportunity, competitive landscape, and financial projections. Elevate Ventures typically reviews submissions promptly, and founders can expect a response within a few weeks. Warm introductions are beneficial but not mandatory.
Elevate Ventures offers several programs designed to support entrepreneurs, including:
In recent months, Elevate Ventures has published several blog posts focusing on storytelling for startups and workshop initiatives aimed at enhancing entrepreneurial skills. This reflects their active engagement with the community and commitment to fostering innovation.
Additionally, Elevate Ventures continues to support its portfolio companies through various programs, including the annual RALLY conference, which brings together innovators and entrepreneurs from across sectors.
What are Elevate Ventures' investment criteria?
Elevate Ventures invests in early-stage companies across sectors such as software, life sciences, hard technology, and consumer products. They focus on startups with a total addressable market (TAM) of $500 million or more and provide funding at pre-seed, seed, and Series A stages.
How can I apply or pitch to Elevate Ventures?
Founders can apply for funding through the Elevate Ventures website at this link. The application process typically involves submitting a pitch deck that outlines the business model, market opportunity, and growth potential.
What makes Elevate Ventures different from other VCs?
Elevate Ventures is one of the most active state-backed venture capital firms in Indiana, focusing on fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in the region. They provide not only capital but also strategic support and resources to help startups grow.
What is the geographic scope of Elevate Ventures?
The firm primarily invests in startups located in Indiana and the Midwest, aiming to drive economic growth and job creation in these areas.
What is the typical check size for investments?
Elevate Ventures typically invests between $20,000 and $2 million per round, with total investments in a single company reaching up to $8 million, depending on the stage and growth of the business.
What kind of post-investment involvement does Elevate Ventures have?
Elevate Ventures provides ongoing support to its portfolio companies through various programs, including post-investment resources and strategic guidance to help them navigate challenges and achieve their business objectives.
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