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.
Founders Circle Capital is a venture capital firm founded in 2012 and based in San Francisco, California. The firm specializes in providing capital solutions for growth-stage companies, particularly those approaching public offerings. With a focus on addressing the unique liquidity needs of founders and long-term employees, Founders Circle Capital has established itself as a key player in the venture capital landscape.
As of now, the firm manages approximately $1.3 billion in assets under management (AUM) and has invested in 93 portfolio companies. The latest fund, which totals $355 million, was raised in 2021. Founders Circle Capital has a notable track record, with 21 companies going public and 27 unicorns among its investments, demonstrating its ability to identify and support high-potential startups.
In addition to its San Francisco headquarters, Founders Circle Capital operates a secondary office in Campbell, California. The firm has built a strong reputation for its unique approach to investing, focusing on secondary shares and providing liquidity solutions that allow founders and employees to access capital without diluting their ownership.
Founders Circle Capital primarily invests in growth-stage companies, particularly those nearing public offerings. The firm offers flexible capital solutions, including both primary and secondary financing options, tailored to meet the specific needs of companies and their employees. This investment strategy emphasizes community support and leadership development, aiming to assist executives and employees in navigating the challenges associated with extended private company tenures.
The firm’s investment thesis centers around providing liquidity solutions through secondary shares for founders and employees of growth-stage companies. This approach allows Founders Circle Capital to enter the cap tables of top-tier companies without competing in primary funding rounds. The firm typically focuses on Series C stage investments, where employee shares become most valuable and liquid.
Founders Circle Capital's geographic focus is primarily on North America, and its sector focus is on consumer companies. The firm seeks to partner with companies that demonstrate strong growth potential and are well-positioned for future success, particularly those that are preparing for an IPO.
Founders Circle Capital has invested in a diverse range of 93 portfolio companies, showcasing its ability to identify high-potential startups. Notable companies in its portfolio include:
This portfolio includes 27 unicorns and 21 companies that have gone public, reflecting the firm’s strong track record in identifying and supporting successful startups.
Ken Loveless: Partner, Co-Founder. Ken has extensive experience in venture capital and has been instrumental in building Founders Circle Capital's investment strategy.
Mike Jung: Partner, Co-Founder. Mike brings a wealth of knowledge in growth-stage investing and has led numerous successful investments.
Mark Dempster: Founder, The Circle. Mark focuses on community development and leadership initiatives within the firm.
Amy Aina: Director of Executive Operations. Amy oversees operational aspects and ensures smooth functioning within the firm.
Andrew Boston: Partner. Andrew specializes in identifying high-potential startups and managing relationships with portfolio companies.
Anthony Matusich: Chief Financial Officer. Anthony manages the financial operations and strategy of the firm.
Avery Cannon: Chief Administrative Officer. Avery oversees administrative functions and supports the firm's operational needs.
Dominick Richiuso: Investor. Dominick focuses on sourcing and evaluating new investment opportunities.
Hannah Starbranch: Senior Content & Communications Manager, The Circle. Hannah manages communications and content strategies for the firm.
Kalee Gardella: Partner, Chief Community Officer, The Circle. Kalee leads community initiatives and supports leadership development.
Marilu Livermore: Partner, Chief Growth Officer, The Circle. Marilu focuses on growth strategies and partnerships for the firm.
Nikki Tatalovich: Senior Manager, Events & Partnerships. Nikki manages events and partnerships to enhance community engagement.
Owen Van Arsdale: Partner. Owen specializes in growth-stage investments and portfolio management.
Ryan Morrison: Partner. Ryan focuses on sourcing new investment opportunities and supporting portfolio companies.
Tyler Zengo: Partner. Tyler brings expertise in venture capital and growth-stage investing.
To pitch Founders Circle Capital, founders should visit their website at founderscircle.com. The firm prefers detailed decks that outline the business model, market opportunity, and growth strategy. Founders should also include information about their team and how they plan to utilize the investment.
Response times may vary, but founders can expect to hear back within a few weeks. Warm introductions are preferred, as they can facilitate a more favorable review process.
Founders Circle Capital operates a private leadership community known as The Circle. This program supports executives from both within and outside their investment portfolio, focusing on professional and leadership development.
The Circle facilitates peer-driven insights and content, allowing members to share experiences and strategies for navigating the challenges of growth. This community-driven approach enhances the overall support network for founders and executives, fostering collaboration and shared learning.
In the past year, Founders Circle Capital has made significant strides in the venture capital space. The firm has completed 4 new investments, focusing primarily on Series C stage companies in the United States.
Notable recent activities include backing companies that are addressing key market needs and demonstrating strong growth potential. The firm continues to emphasize its unique model of providing liquidity solutions to founders and employees, which has become increasingly relevant in the current market environment.
Founders Circle Capital's approach to investing has garnered attention, particularly as demand for secondary liquidity options rises. The firm remains committed to supporting growth-stage companies and facilitating their paths to successful public offerings.
What are Founders Circle Capital's investment criteria?
Founders Circle Capital focuses on growth-stage companies, particularly those nearing public offerings. The firm invests in consumer sectors and emphasizes providing liquidity solutions through secondary shares for founders and employees.
How can I apply or pitch to Founders Circle Capital?
Founders Circle Capital accepts pitches through their website at founderscircle.com. Founders should include detailed information about their business model, growth potential, and how they plan to utilize the capital.
What makes Founders Circle Capital different from other venture firms?
The firm specializes in purchasing secondary shares from founders and long-term employees, providing liquidity without diluting ownership. This unique approach allows them to invest in companies that are already showing signs of success.
What is the geographic scope of Founders Circle Capital's investments?
Founders Circle Capital primarily invests in North America, focusing on companies that are well-positioned for growth and potential public offerings.
What is Founders Circle Capital's post-investment involvement like?
The firm provides community support for leadership development and assists portfolio companies in navigating their growth journeys. This includes access to resources and insights that help executives and employees thrive.
What is the typical fund size and check size for Founders Circle Capital?
The latest fund raised by Founders Circle Capital is $355 million, and the firm typically invests in growth-stage companies, focusing on both primary and secondary financing options.
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.