Discover if this is a suitable investor for your startup. If they are we'll make a warm introduction for free. Otherwise, we'll connect you with matching investors.
Excell Partners, Inc. is a venture capital fund established in 2006 through a collaboration between the University of Rochester and New York State Empire State Development. Based in Rochester, New York, the firm specializes in investing in high-tech, high-growth startups, particularly those that contribute to the local economy. The fund has a strong commitment to supporting minority and women-owned businesses, requiring portfolio companies to maintain operations in New York State for a minimum of three years following investment.
As of now, Excell Partners manages a portfolio of 40 companies and has made significant strides in fostering innovation in Upstate New York. The firm emphasizes investments in sectors such as biotechnology, healthcare, energy, and agtech, with a focus on early-stage companies that demonstrate substantial growth potential. Excell's strategic alignment with the University of Rochester enhances its ability to support startups through access to resources and expertise.
Excell Partners, Inc. invests across a diverse range of sectors, including medical devices, materials, energy, biotechnology, agtech, imaging, and IT/software ventures. The firm typically invests between $1 million and $1.5 million per round, with an average investment of around $1 million. This investment strategy targets early-stage companies that exhibit significant growth potential, particularly those located in Upstate New York.
Excell's investment thesis emphasizes the importance of supporting minority and women-owned ventures, aligning with its mission to foster diversity in the startup ecosystem. The firm mandates that portfolio companies maintain operations in New York State for at least three years post-investment, ensuring a lasting impact on the local economy. This focus on regional development, combined with a commitment to high-tech innovation, positions Excell as a key player in the venture capital landscape.
Excell Partners, Inc. has built a diverse portfolio of 40 companies across various sectors. Notable portfolio companies include:
Theresa Mazzullo - CEO. Theresa has extensive experience in venture capital and has been instrumental in leading Excell Partners since its inception. She has a strong background in supporting high-growth startups and fostering innovation in Upstate New York.
Rami Katz - COO. Rami oversees the firm's operations and plays a key role in managing the investment process. His expertise includes operational management and strategic planning.
Alan Lee - Director of Investment & Finance. Alan is responsible for evaluating investment opportunities and managing the firm's financial strategies. He has a background in finance and investment analysis.
Paul Tolley - CTO. Paul leads the firm's technology initiatives and provides insights into the technical aspects of potential investments. His experience includes working with technology startups and understanding their unique challenges.
Madeleine Barrett - Manager. Madeleine supports the team in various operational and administrative capacities, ensuring the smooth functioning of the firm.
Startups interested in pitching to Excell Partners, Inc. should submit their proposals through the firm's website at excellny.com. The pitch deck should include detailed information about the business model, market opportunity, competitive landscape, and the founding team. Excell prefers well-structured decks that clearly outline the startup's growth strategy and financial projections.
Response times can vary, but founders can generally expect to hear back within a few weeks. Warm introductions are encouraged, as they can enhance the likelihood of receiving a favorable response.
Excell Partners, Inc. has been actively supporting its portfolio companies and promoting its mission of fostering high-tech innovation in Upstate New York. Recent updates on their website highlight their commitment to minority and women-owned businesses, although no specific blog posts or articles have been published recently. The firm continues to engage with the local startup community, emphasizing its role in driving economic growth through strategic investments.
In 2021, notable exits included the acquisition of GiveGab by EveryAction and Kinvolved by PowerSchool, showcasing Excell's ability to identify and support high-potential startups. Additionally, TetraGenetics, Inc. was acquired by AbCellera Biologics Inc. in the same year, further solidifying Excell's reputation in the venture capital space.
What are Excell Partners' investment criteria?
Excell Partners focuses on high-tech, high-growth startups primarily in Upstate New York. They invest in sectors such as biotechnology, healthcare, energy, and agtech, with a strong emphasis on supporting minority and women-owned ventures.
How can startups apply or pitch to Excell Partners?
Startups can pitch to Excell Partners through their website at excellny.com. They encourage founders to provide detailed information about their business model, market potential, and team.
What makes Excell Partners different from other venture capital firms?
Excell Partners is distinct due to its strong ties to the University of Rochester and its commitment to supporting minority and women-owned businesses. They require portfolio companies to maintain operations in New York State for at least three years post-investment, ensuring a lasting impact on the local economy.
What is the geographic scope of Excell Partners' investments?
Excell Partners primarily invests in startups located in Upstate New York, focusing on companies that contribute to the local economy and demonstrate significant growth potential.
What is the typical check size for investments?
Excell Partners typically invests between $1 million and $1.5 million per round, with an average investment of around $1 million.
What kind of post-investment involvement does Excell Partners have?
Excell Partners adds value to its portfolio companies by providing strategic guidance, operational support, and access to resources that facilitate growth and commercialization. They leverage their connections within the University of Rochester ecosystem to support startups effectively.
All trademarks, logos and brand names are the property of their respective owners. All company, product and service names used in this website are for identification purposes only. Use of these names, trademarks, and brands does not imply endorsement.