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.
Fictive Ventures is a venture capital firm founded in 2024 by Brahm Rhodes, Ph.D., and Khadijah A. Robinson, Esq. The firm is dedicated to supporting Black founders and investors, particularly at the pre-seed stage where traditional funding sources are often inaccessible. The founders recognized the barriers that Black pre-MVP founders face in securing early-stage capital and support, leading to the establishment of a new ecosystem aimed at fostering innovation and impact.
Currently, Fictive Ventures operates with a target fund size of $5 million and aims to recruit over 100 Black investors as limited partners (LPs). The firm emphasizes democratized access to investment opportunities, with a minimum LP investment of $10,000, significantly lower than the industry standard. This approach not only facilitates capital access for Black entrepreneurs but also cultivates a community of Black investors through education and engagement.
Fictive Ventures primarily invests in early-stage, Black-led startups, specifically targeting the pre-seed, seed, and seed-plus stages. The firm is committed to addressing the systemic funding gaps that Black entrepreneurs encounter, ensuring they have access to the necessary capital and resources to succeed. Their investment strategy includes a focus on sectors such as artificial intelligence, healthcare, and consumer products.
The organization aims to create a self-sustaining ecosystem by providing not only financial support but also mentorship and resources to Black founders. Fictive Ventures positions itself as a community platform that offers educational programming and access opportunities for aspiring Black investors, thereby fostering a supportive network that extends beyond mere financial investment.
Fictive Ventures has made early investments in several notable companies, including:
Additionally, the firm supports other Black-led companies through the prior angel investing activities of co-founder Khadijah A. Robinson, which include investments in CurlMix and Ten to One Rum. These investments reflect the firm's commitment to sectors such as consumer products and health technology, showcasing its focus on impactful solutions led by Black entrepreneurs.
Brahm Rhodes, Ph.D. — Co-founder and General Partner; he has a background as an entrepreneur and investor, previously associated with Boston Impact Initiative. His expertise lies in supporting early-stage ventures and fostering innovation.
Khadijah A. Robinson, Esq. — Co-founder and General Partner; she is an entrepreneur and attorney with prior angel investing experience in companies like CurlMix and Backpack Healthcare. Robinson is a speaker for the Women's Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC) and a Spelman College alumna (Class of 2011).
To pitch Fictive Ventures, founders should visit their website at fictiveventures.com. It is essential to include a comprehensive deck that outlines the business model, market opportunity, and team qualifications. The firm prefers pitches that clearly demonstrate how the startup addresses a significant problem in the market.
Response times may vary, but founders can expect to receive feedback within a few weeks. Warm introductions are encouraged, as they can facilitate a more favorable review process.
In 2024, Fictive Ventures was founded by Brahm Rhodes, Ph.D., and Khadijah A. Robinson, Esq., with a mission to close the funding gap for Black founders. The firm has made early investments in companies such as Backpack Healthcare, an AI-driven mental health platform for children.
Additionally, the firm has engaged in prior angel investing activities through co-founder Khadijah A. Robinson, supporting companies like CurlMix and Ten to One Rum. These investments reflect the firm's commitment to sectors that align with their mission of supporting Black-led innovation.
What are Fictive Ventures' investment criteria?
Fictive Ventures invests primarily in early-stage, Black-led startups at the pre-seed, seed, and seed-plus stages. The firm focuses on addressing systemic funding gaps that Black entrepreneurs face, particularly in sectors like AI, healthcare, and consumer products.
How can founders apply or pitch to Fictive Ventures?
Founders can pitch to Fictive Ventures through their website at fictiveventures.com. It is recommended to include a clear business model, market analysis, and details on how the startup addresses a specific problem in the market.
What makes Fictive Ventures different from other venture capital firms?
Fictive Ventures is uniquely focused on supporting Black founders and investors, addressing the barriers they face in accessing early-stage capital. The firm combines investment with community engagement and educational resources, creating a supportive ecosystem for Black innovators.
What is the geographic scope of Fictive Ventures' investments?
While specific geographic limitations are not detailed, Fictive Ventures is primarily focused on supporting Black-led startups, which may include companies from various locations, particularly those that align with their mission.
What is the fund size and check size for investments?
The target fund size for Fictive Ventures is $5 million, with a minimum LP investment of $10,000. Check sizes for individual investments typically align with early-stage funding requirements, focusing on pre-seed and seed rounds.
What kind of post-investment involvement does Fictive Ventures have?
Fictive Ventures provides mentorship and resources to its portfolio companies, positioning itself as a community platform that extends support beyond financial investment. This includes educational programming for both founders and aspiring Black investors.
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.