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Forum Ventures is a pre-seed venture capital firm and accelerator founded in 2014 by Michael Cardamone. Based in the United States, the firm specializes in supporting early-stage B2B software companies, particularly in sectors such as AI, healthcare, and fintech. Originally established as Acceleprise, Forum Ventures has evolved significantly, expanding its reach and team to better serve its portfolio companies.
Currently, Forum Ventures manages over $100 million in assets under management (AUM) and has built a portfolio of more than 450 companies. The firm operates from offices in San Francisco, New York, and Toronto, reflecting its commitment to fostering innovation across North America. Notable milestones include the launch of an AI venture studio and the establishment of a comprehensive accelerator program designed to assist startups from initial funding through to scaling their operations.
Forum Ventures invests primarily in early-stage B2B software companies, emphasizing a founder-first approach. Their investment strategy encompasses a pre-seed fund, an accelerator program, and a venture studio, all tailored to meet the needs of entrepreneurs. The firm focuses on sectors such as AI, healthcare, fintech, supply chain, and emerging technologies, with typical check sizes starting at $100,000.
The firm’s accelerator program spans 16 weeks and provides participating startups with funding, mentorship, and access to a community of founders and investors. Forum Ventures prioritizes startups that address real customer problems and demonstrate measurable outcomes, ensuring that their investments align with market needs.
Forum Ventures has invested in over 450 B2B tech startups, showcasing a diverse portfolio that includes:
Michael Cardamone - Managing Partner & CEO. Michael is the founder of Forum Ventures and previously worked at Box as employee #30. He has extensive experience in the startup ecosystem and has led numerous successful investments.
Jonah Midanik - General Partner. Jonah brings a wealth of experience in venture capital and has been instrumental in driving the firm's investment strategy.
Dani Pico - Head of Platform. Dani oversees the firm's accelerator program and ensures that portfolio companies receive the support they need to thrive.
Bocar Dia - Partner. Bocar contributes to the firm's investment decisions and works closely with portfolio companies to enhance their growth potential.
Neal Sarraf - Managing Director. Neal plays a key role in managing the firm's operations and investment activities.
To pitch to Forum Ventures, founders should visit their pitch page. They recommend including a clear overview of the startup's mission, market opportunity, and business model in the pitch deck. Response times may vary, but they encourage warm introductions when possible to enhance the chances of engagement.
Forum Ventures operates a 16-week accelerator program designed to support early-stage B2B startups. The program includes funding of $100,000 for participating startups, hands-on support for go-to-market strategies, and access to a community of founders, enterprise buyers, and investors.
Additionally, Forum Ventures runs the "Forum For Founders" program, which focuses on providing intensive support and resources to help startups achieve go-to-market excellence and sustainable growth.
In 2023, Forum Ventures has been actively supporting its portfolio companies, with notable funding rounds for companies like Blanka and Finni Health. The firm has also published its annual "State of Pre-seed and Seed VC Market" report, highlighting trends and insights in the venture capital landscape.
Forum Ventures celebrated its 10th anniversary in 2024, marking a decade of supporting early-stage B2B software companies. The firm continues to expand its reach and resources, further solidifying its position as a leader in the pre-seed investment space.
Q?
What are the investment criteria for Forum Ventures?
Forum Ventures focuses on early-stage B2B software companies, particularly in sectors like AI, healthcare, and fintech. They look for startups that address real customer problems and demonstrate measurable outcomes.
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How can founders apply or pitch to Forum Ventures?
Founders can pitch to Forum Ventures by visiting their pitch page. They encourage submissions that clearly outline the startup's value proposition and market potential.
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What makes Forum Ventures different from other venture capital firms?
Forum Ventures combines funding with extensive support through its accelerator program and venture studio, providing hands-on guidance in go-to-market strategies and operational scaling.
Q?
What is the typical check size for investments?
The typical check size for investments starts at $100,000, particularly for startups participating in their accelerator program.
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What is the geographic scope of Forum Ventures?
Forum Ventures primarily invests in early-stage companies based in the United States.
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