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Flight Fund is a venture capital organization founded by Steven Bartlett in January 2023. Based in the United Kingdom, it operates as part of Flight Story, a media and investment company. The fund was established with a capital of $100 million, targeting high-growth startups primarily in Europe and North America. Flight Fund aims to support innovative entrepreneurs and disruptive companies across various sectors, including biotech, healthcare, and commerce.
Since its inception, Flight Fund has expanded its portfolio to over 40 companies, significantly increasing its initial target of 20. The fund's unique approach combines capital investment with mentorship and guidance, leveraging Bartlett's extensive media network to enhance visibility for portfolio companies. This model aims to provide not only financial support but also strategic marketing assistance, which is crucial for scaling businesses.
Flight Fund invests across a diverse range of sectors, including health and wellbeing, biotechnology, commerce, blockchain technology, and space. The fund specifically targets late-stage companies valued at $100 million or more that are approaching exit within 1-2 years. Check sizes typically range from $1 million to $10 million per investment, allowing for significant stakes in promising startups.
The organization seeks to identify companies that challenge conventional thinking and see opportunities where others see barriers. Flight Fund's investment strategy emphasizes supporting innovative entrepreneurs who are poised to disrupt their respective industries. This focus on high-growth startups aligns with the fund's mission to empower founders through funding, mentorship, and access to a valuable network.
Flight Fund's portfolio includes notable companies such as:
In total, Flight Fund has invested in over 40 companies, reflecting its commitment to supporting a diverse range of innovative startups.
Steven Bartlett - Founder and General Partner. Born in 1992, Bartlett is the youngest-ever panelist on BBC's Dragons' Den, having joined in 2021. He co-founded Social Chain, a social media marketing agency that was sold for approximately £600 million. Bartlett is also the host of the popular podcast Diary of a CEO, which has gained significant traction globally.
To pitch to Flight Fund, founders should visit the official website at flightfund.com. The pitch deck should include a comprehensive overview of the business model, market opportunity, and financial projections. It is recommended to highlight any unique aspects of the startup that align with the fund's focus on innovation and disruption.
Response times may vary, but founders should expect to hear back within a few weeks. A warm introduction through mutual connections can enhance the chances of a successful pitch.
In March 2023, Flight Fund faced criticism regarding its investment model, which reportedly seeks minority stakes at discounted valuations. This approach has drawn scrutiny from other VCs and founders, with some labeling it as 'vulture' behavior.
Flight Fund has made notable investments, including a $2.5 million stake in ZOE in 2023, and continues to expand its portfolio, which now includes over 40 companies.
What are Flight Fund's investment criteria?
Flight Fund focuses on late-stage companies valued at $100 million or more, primarily in sectors such as biotech, healthcare, commerce, blockchain technology, and space. The fund seeks to invest between $1 million and $10 million per company.
How can I apply or pitch to Flight Fund?
Founders can pitch their startups through the official website at flightfund.com. It is advisable to include a detailed business plan and financial projections in the pitch deck.
What makes Flight Fund different from other venture capital firms?
Flight Fund differentiates itself by leveraging Steven Bartlett's extensive media network and marketing support from Flight Story Studio. This unique value proposition enhances visibility and access to a network of successful entrepreneurs for portfolio companies.
What is the geographic scope of Flight Fund's investments?
The fund primarily focuses on high-growth startups in Europe and North America, with a particular emphasis on the UK market.
What is Flight Fund's post-investment involvement like?
Flight Fund provides mentorship and guidance to its portfolio companies, helping them navigate growth challenges and scale effectively. The fund also facilitates introductions to its network of successful entrepreneurs.
What is the fund size and how many companies are in the portfolio?
Flight Fund has a total fund size of $100 million and has invested in over 40 companies since its launch.
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