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FireStarter Fund is an early-stage investment fund founded in 2012 and based in Chicago. The fund was established by a collective of technology entrepreneurs who aim to support the growth of technology companies through capital investment, mentorship, and networking opportunities. As of January 2019, FireStarter Fund is fully invested and no longer accepting new investment opportunities.
The fund has a committed capital of approximately $5.7 million and operates with a unique model where 42 members contribute as volunteers, eliminating management fees and carried interest. This structure allows for a flexible approach to investing, combining the benefits of a venture capital firm with the agility of an angel group.
FireStarter Fund has played a significant role in the Chicago startup ecosystem, focusing on building a cohesive community for entrepreneurs. The fund's notable milestones include deploying capital into around 20 companies by 2016 and fostering connections among its members, which include distinguished figures such as J.B. Pritzker and Sam Yagan.
FireStarter Fund specializes in early-stage investments in technology companies, particularly within the sectors of SaaS, e-commerce, digital health, and artificial intelligence. The fund primarily targets pre-seed, seed, and seed-plus stages, with typical check sizes ranging from $150,000 to $350,000, and a maximum of $500,000. The fund emphasizes the importance of building a supportive business community for entrepreneurs and innovators, particularly in Chicago and the broader North American market.
Investment decisions are made collectively by the fund's members, who provide not only capital but also mentorship and networking opportunities to portfolio companies. FireStarter Fund seeks to invest in companies that demonstrate strong potential for growth and innovation, particularly those that align with its focus on digital technology. The fund's investment thesis highlights the significance of fostering a collaborative environment that encourages entrepreneurial success.
FireStarter Fund has invested in a diverse range of early-stage technology companies, with a notable portfolio that includes:
These companies reflect FireStarter Fund's commitment to supporting innovative solutions across various sectors, particularly in digital technology.
Matt Moog: Founder of FireStarter Fund, previously founded Viewpoints Network and Built in Chicago. He has extensive experience in the technology sector and is committed to supporting the Chicago startup community.
J.B. Pritzker: Managing partner of the Pritzker Group and currently the Governor of Illinois. He has a strong background in venture capital and entrepreneurship.
Joe Mansueto: Founder and CEO of Morningstar, a leading investment research firm. He brings significant expertise in finance and investment.
Sam Yagan: Co-founder of Corazon Capital and former CEO of Match Group. He has a wealth of experience in building and scaling technology companies.
Troy Henikoff: Managing director of TechStars Chicago and a key figure in the local startup ecosystem. He has a strong background in mentoring and supporting early-stage companies.
Shradha Agarwal: Co-founder of ContextMedia, she has a strong focus on healthcare technology and entrepreneurship.
To pitch FireStarter Fund, email your deck to their contact address. They do not currently accept submissions through a form or website.
As of January 24, 2019, FireStarter Fund is fully invested and has ceased accepting new investment opportunities. The fund has transitioned into a harvest/exit mode, focusing on supporting its existing portfolio companies.
Historically, FireStarter Fund has made significant contributions to the Chicago startup ecosystem, deploying capital into approximately 20 companies by 2016. The fund's unique volunteer model and community-oriented approach have distinguished it within the venture capital landscape.
What are FireStarter Fund's investment criteria?
FireStarter Fund focuses on early-stage technology companies, particularly in sectors such as SaaS, e-commerce, digital health, and AI. The fund typically invests in pre-seed, seed, and seed-plus stages, with check sizes ranging from $150,000 to $500,000.
How can I apply or pitch to FireStarter Fund?
Currently, FireStarter Fund is not accepting new investment opportunities as it is fully invested. However, interested founders should keep an eye on the fund's website for any future updates regarding new investment opportunities.
What makes FireStarter Fund different from other venture capital firms?
FireStarter Fund operates with a unique volunteer model, where members contribute their expertise and capital without management fees or carried interest. This structure fosters a strong community-oriented approach to investing.
What is the geographic scope of FireStarter Fund's investments?
The fund primarily focuses on North America, particularly the Chicago area, but is capable of investing nationally.
What kind of post-investment involvement can portfolio companies expect?
FireStarter Fund provides mentorship and networking opportunities to its portfolio companies, with members actively engaging to support their growth and development.
What is the fund size and how many companies does FireStarter Fund typically invest in?
The fund has a committed capital of approximately $5.7 million and typically targets a portfolio of 15 to 20 companies.
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