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First Down Ventures is a venture capital firm founded around 2014, primarily focused on early-stage startups. Established through a collaboration of professional athletes, entrepreneurs, and business professionals, the firm aimed to invest in and support innovative companies. Historically based in the Walnut Creek and San Francisco Bay Area, First Down Ventures has shown a particular interest in mobile startups and consumer products.
Despite its promising beginnings, the current status of First Down Ventures is uncertain, with indications suggesting that it may no longer be active as a venture fund. The firm has not maintained a public presence, and its claimed domain now leads to an unclaimed page. This raises questions about its operational status and ability to engage with new startups.
First Down Ventures has historically been associated with notable investments, including Kinder's and Theragun (now Therabody), although the latter is more linked to advisory work rather than direct investment. The firm’s founding team, comprised of professional athletes and business professionals, aimed to leverage their unique perspectives to support entrepreneurs in navigating their growth journeys.
First Down Ventures historically focused on early-stage investments, particularly in mobile startups and consumer products. The firm provided capital, strategic advice, and partnership support to entrepreneurs with strong innovation and market leadership potential. Although the firm has historical ties to the sports and wellness sectors, its current investment focus remains unclear.
Investment stages included pre-seed, seed, seed+ (extension), Series A, and Series B. The geographic focus was primarily on North America, specifically the United States. The firm sought to partner with game-changing entrepreneurs building innovative companies, particularly in the mobile sector. This focus on innovation was complemented by the unique insights and networks of its founders, who were professional athletes and business professionals.
While First Down Ventures aimed to add value through strategic partnerships, the lack of recent activity and updates raises questions about its current operational status and investment strategy.
First Down Ventures has a historical portfolio that includes notable investments such as:
These investments highlight First Down Ventures' focus on consumer products and health-related innovations, although the current status of these companies and any ongoing involvement from the firm is not clear.
Cam Worrell — Founder/Partner at First Down Group, Worrell is a former NFL player who played for the Miami Dolphins and Chicago Bears. He has built businesses after his football career and has experience in founding or helping to build sports and training ventures.
Sam Williams — Listed as a historical team member on the First Down Ventures LinkedIn page, but no current role or decision-making authority has been verified.
Tomas Ross — Another historical team member listed on the First Down Ventures LinkedIn page, with no current role or verified responsibilities.
Nitin Yenigalla — Identified as a key investor in First Down Ventures by Angels Partners, but no current role has been confirmed from official sources.
As of 2026, First Down Ventures appears to be inactive, with no recent investments or announcements. The claimed domain for the firm leads to an unclaimed page, and the LinkedIn profile does not show any recent updates or activities.
Independent research indicates that the firm may have transitioned to a different model, with the First Down Group now focusing on innovation and growth advisory rather than venture capital.
Given the lack of recent activity, founders should consider First Down Group for potential advisory support rather than relying on First Down Ventures as an active venture fund.
What are First Down Ventures' investment criteria?
First Down Ventures historically focused on early-stage investments in mobile startups and consumer products. They sought to partner with entrepreneurs who demonstrated strong innovation and market leadership potential.
How can I pitch to First Down Ventures?
Currently, there is no publicly available information regarding the pitch process for First Down Ventures. Given the uncertainty surrounding the firm's operational status, founders may need to explore alternative avenues for engagement.
What makes First Down Ventures different from other VCs?
The unique aspect of First Down Ventures lies in its founding team, which includes professional athletes and business professionals. This background provides a distinctive perspective on the consumer and sports sectors, potentially offering valuable insights to entrepreneurs.
What is the geographic focus of First Down Ventures?
The firm historically focused on investments within North America, particularly in the United States. However, the current geographic mandate is unclear.
What is the typical check size for First Down Ventures?
There is no disclosed information regarding the typical check size for investments made by First Down Ventures.
What is the current status of First Down Ventures?
First Down Ventures appears to be likely defunct, with no recent activity or updates available. The claimed domain is unclaimed, and the firm has not maintained a public presence.
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