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.
Folklore Ventures is a venture capital firm established in 2014 in Sydney, Australia. The firm focuses on early-stage technology startups, particularly in the software and advanced technology sectors. Founded by Alister Coleman, Folklore Ventures has built a reputation for its commitment to supporting Australian and New Zealand founders. The firm operates two Early Stage Venture Capital Limited Partnerships (ESVCLPs): Fund II, launched in 2019, and Fund III, initiated in 2021.
Currently, Folklore Ventures manages a portfolio of 46 companies, showcasing its active engagement in the tech ecosystem. The team comprises experienced professionals with nearly 80 years of collective experience in founding and scaling technology companies. Their office is located at Office 4 Level 1 / 16 Eveleigh St., Redfern NSW, Australia. The firm has achieved notable milestones, including successful exits from companies like Freelancer and Vend.
Folklore Ventures specializes in investing in early-stage technology companies, primarily in Australia and New Zealand. The firm targets sectors such as software, healthcare, robotics, automation, and decentralization. Their investment strategy is characterized by a 'first cheque to forever' philosophy, which means they support companies from their inception through significant growth phases. This approach allows them to back founders at the pre-seed and seed stages, providing essential capital and resources to help startups thrive.
The firm looks for founders who demonstrate strong vision and capability in building global software and advanced technology companies. Folklore Ventures emphasizes a hands-on support model, leveraging their extensive experience and deep connections within the ANZ tech ecosystem. They are particularly interested in companies that are developing innovative solutions in AI and automation technologies, reflecting current market trends and demands.
Folklore Ventures has made 46 investments, with notable portfolio companies including:
Recent investments include Visionary Machines and ZenCheck, further expanding their portfolio in AI and automation technologies. Notable exits from their portfolio include Freelancer, Vend, ShippingEasy, Ansarada, and Swoop Aero.
Alister Coleman: Partner at Folklore Ventures, Alister has extensive experience in founding and scaling technology companies. He has been instrumental in shaping the firm's investment strategy and portfolio.
Albert Bielinko: Partner at Folklore Ventures, Albert brings a wealth of knowledge in technology investments and has a strong background in supporting early-stage startups.
Clare Power: CFO at Folklore Ventures, Clare oversees the financial operations of the firm, ensuring effective management of funds and resources.
Andrew Larsen: Partner at Folklore Ventures, Andrew has a proven track record in technology investments and plays a key role in sourcing and evaluating new opportunities.
Founders interested in pitching to Folklore Ventures should send their proposals via email to hello@folklore.vc. It is important to include a comprehensive pitch deck that outlines the business model, market opportunity, and team background. Response times may vary, but founders can expect to hear back regarding their pitch within a reasonable timeframe.
On July 18, 2025, Folklore Ventures made a recent investment in Visionary Machines, continuing its focus on AI-driven technology solutions. Additionally, they invested in ZenCheck, further expanding their portfolio in the automation sector. The firm has successfully exited from notable companies such as Freelancer, Vend, and ShippingEasy, showcasing their ability to identify and support high-potential startups.
What are Folklore Ventures' investment criteria?
Folklore Ventures invests in early-stage technology companies in Australia and New Zealand, focusing on sectors such as software, healthcare, robotics, and AI. They prefer to be the first cheque investors, supporting startups from pre-seed and seed stages.
How can founders apply or pitch to Folklore Ventures?
Founders can pitch to Folklore Ventures by sending an email to hello@folklore.vc. It is advisable to include a detailed pitch deck outlining the business model, market opportunity, and team background.
What makes Folklore Ventures different from other VCs?
Folklore Ventures emphasizes a long-term partnership approach, supporting founders from inception through growth. Their team has nearly 80 years of collective experience in founding and scaling tech companies, providing valuable insights and resources.
What is the geographic scope of Folklore Ventures?
The firm primarily focuses on startups based in Australia and New Zealand, aiming to back local founders building global technology companies.
What is the typical check size for investments?
While specific check sizes are not disclosed, Folklore Ventures typically invests at the pre-seed and seed stages, which generally involves smaller initial investments to support early growth.
What kind of post-investment involvement can founders expect?
Folklore Ventures provides hands-on support through their Support Stack offering, which includes mentorship, operational support, and access to their extensive network within the ANZ tech ecosystem.
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.