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Gen 1 Capital is an early-stage deep tech venture capital firm founded to support innovators and entrepreneurs. Established in the US Midwest, the firm focuses on investing in technology founders who are transforming industries and impacting future generations. The firm has a portfolio count of three companies and has achieved notable exits, including the $400 million acquisition of Nervana Systems.
As of now, Gen 1 Capital operates primarily within the United States, targeting sectors that address complex problems across diverse industries. Their approach is characterized by a commitment to collaboration and character in partnerships with startups, which has positioned them as a significant player in the early-stage investment landscape.
Gen 1 Capital invests in early-stage startups that tackle complex problems across various sectors, including artificial intelligence, machine learning, robotics, quantum computing, autonomous vehicles, digital health, and education technologies. Their investment strategy emphasizes the importance of character and collaboration in their partnerships with founders. The firm typically engages in funding rounds from pre-seed to Series B, allowing them to support startups at critical stages of their development.
Check sizes vary based on the stage of investment, but the firm has demonstrated a willingness to invest significant amounts, as evidenced by their portfolio companies' funding rounds. Gen 1 Capital seeks technology founders who are not only innovative but also committed to making a positive impact on future generations.
Gen 1 Capital's portfolio includes notable companies that exemplify their investment thesis:
Naveen Rao, PhD - Co-founder. Naveen has a background in deep learning and has been instrumental in the development of AI technologies.
Arjun Bansal, PhD - Co-founder. Arjun specializes in machine learning and has led various initiatives in the tech industry.
Amir Khosrowshahi, PhD - Co-founder. Amir has expertise in AI and has contributed to significant advancements in the field.
Erik Schluntz - Co-founder. Erik has a strong background in robotics and has been involved in multiple successful ventures.
Travis Deyle, PhD - Co-founder. Travis focuses on robotics and has extensive experience in technology development.
Mark Groden, PhD - Founder. Mark is known for his work in autonomous systems and has a deep understanding of the industry.
To pitch Gen 1 Capital, startups should visit their website at gen1vc.com. The firm prefers detailed decks that outline the problem being addressed, the solution offered, and the team's qualifications. A warm introduction is beneficial, but not mandatory. Response times can vary, so founders should be prepared for potential follow-up discussions.
In recent months, Gen 1 Capital has actively engaged in funding rounds for its portfolio companies. Notably, Cobalt Robotics raised $35 million in Series B funding, while Skyryse secured $25 million in Series A funding. The firm continues to showcase its commitment to supporting deep tech innovators and has achieved a significant exit with the $400 million acquisition of Nervana Systems.
These activities highlight Gen 1 Capital's ongoing involvement in the startup ecosystem and its focus on transformative technologies that address complex industry challenges.
What are Gen 1 Capital's investment criteria?
Gen 1 Capital focuses on early-stage startups in deep tech sectors, particularly those addressing complex problems in AI, robotics, healthcare, and education technologies. They look for founders with strong character and a collaborative mindset.
How can startups apply or pitch to Gen 1 Capital?
Startups interested in pitching to Gen 1 Capital can visit their website at gen1vc.com for more information on the application process.
What makes Gen 1 Capital different from other venture firms?
The firm emphasizes character and collaboration in its partnerships, which sets it apart from many other venture capital firms that may prioritize financial metrics over founder relationships.
What is the geographic scope of Gen 1 Capital's investments?
Gen 1 Capital primarily invests in startups based in the United States, focusing on the Midwest region.
What is the typical check size for investments?
While specific check sizes can vary, Gen 1 Capital participates in funding rounds from pre-seed to Series B, indicating a flexible investment approach based on the startup's needs and stage.
What kind of post-investment involvement does Gen 1 Capital have?
Gen 1 Capital is known for its collaborative approach, often working closely with portfolio companies to provide operational support and strategic guidance.
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