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Excelsior.vc is a venture capital firm based in Canada, founded by Mark Benning, who has extensive experience in the software startup ecosystem. The firm focuses on investing in fast-growing AI software companies, particularly those addressing complex challenges through artificial intelligence and machine learning. Excelsior.vc is dedicated to supporting Canadian entrepreneurs and fostering the growth of the local tech ecosystem.
Currently, Excelsior.vc operates with a team led by Mark Benning, who has a proven track record in founding and leading investor-backed software startups. The firm primarily invests at the pre-seed and seed stages, while also participating in follow-on investments during Series A financing rounds. This approach ensures that they remain actively involved in the growth of their portfolio companies.
Excelsior.vc emphasizes its commitment to Canadian startups, focusing exclusively on companies within the country. The firm has established itself as a key player in the Canadian venture capital landscape, with a clear mission to support entrepreneurs leveraging artificial intelligence and emerging technologies.
Excelsior.vc invests primarily in sectors such as fintech, deep tech, platform tech, and no-code technology, with a strong emphasis on AI software. The firm operates at the pre-seed and seed stages, ensuring that they engage with startups early in their development. Additionally, Excelsior.vc participates in follow-on investments during Series A financing rounds, providing continued support as companies scale.
The firm specifically targets entrepreneurs who are solving complex problems using artificial intelligence and emerging technologies. Excelsior.vc does not invest at the idea stage or in pre-revenue companies, focusing instead on startups that have demonstrated early traction and are poised for growth. This investment strategy allows the firm to partner with founders who are building cutting-edge products that can make a significant impact in their respective markets.
Excelsior.vc has a focused portfolio that includes companies across various sectors, particularly in AI software. While specific portfolio companies are not detailed in the provided data, the firm emphasizes its commitment to supporting fast-growing startups in Canada. The firm’s investment strategy includes a strong emphasis on sectors such as:
Excelsior.vc’s focus on these sectors aligns with its mission to support entrepreneurs leveraging artificial intelligence and machine learning to create innovative solutions.
Mark Benning - Founder and Managing Partner. Mark has over 20 years of experience in founding and leading investor-backed software startups. He previously founded and led Sprout Fund and Sprout Fund II. Mark holds an MBA from Stanford University, focusing on venture investing and entrepreneurial leadership, and an AB in Economics from Harvard University.
To pitch to Excelsior.vc, founders should submit their decks through the designated portal on their website. It is important to include comprehensive information about the startup, including the problem being solved, the solution offered, market analysis, and team qualifications. Founders should expect a response within a reasonable timeframe, although specific timelines are not disclosed.
Warm introductions are preferred, as they can facilitate a more favorable review process. Ensuring that the pitch is concise yet informative will increase the chances of capturing the firm's interest.
As of October 2023, Excelsior.vc has been actively promoting its investment focus on AI software startups in Canada. The firm emphasizes its commitment to supporting portfolio companies as they scale, particularly through follow-on investments. No specific recent investments or exits have been publicly reported.
What are Excelsior.vc's investment criteria?
Excelsior.vc partners with entrepreneurs building AI software solutions that address complex problems. The firm targets fast-growing startups that have demonstrated early traction and are at the pre-seed or seed stages.
How can I apply or pitch to Excelsior.vc?
Founders can submit their pitch decks through the submission portal available on their website at excelsior.vc. It is recommended to include detailed information about the product, market opportunity, and team background.
What makes Excelsior.vc different from other venture capital firms?
Excelsior.vc focuses exclusively on Canadian startups and emphasizes support for AI software companies. The firm’s founder, Mark Benning, has a strong background in building successful software startups, which allows the firm to provide strategic guidance and industry connections.
What is the geographic scope of Excelsior.vc's investments?
Excelsior.vc exclusively invests in Canadian startups, ensuring that they contribute to the growth of the local tech ecosystem.
What is the typical check size for investments?
While specific check sizes are not disclosed, Excelsior.vc invests at the pre-seed and seed stages, which typically involves smaller initial investments, with follow-on investments during Series A rounds.
What kind of post-investment involvement does Excelsior.vc have?
The firm actively supports its portfolio companies through strategic guidance, industry connections, and resources to help them navigate challenges as they scale.
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