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Greater Colorado Venture Fund, also known as Howdy Partners, was founded in 2018 and is based in Durango, Colorado. This venture capital firm is recognized as the Nation's First Rural Focused VC Fund, dedicated to supporting entrepreneurs in overlooked markets, particularly in rural Colorado. The fund aims to empower founders who align their business values with their community and culture, fostering economic growth in these regions.
The firm currently manages approximately $25 million in assets under management (AUM) and has made 29 investments since its inception. Greater Colorado Venture Fund operates with a clear mission to invest in high-growth companies located outside the Colorado Front Range urban corridor, focusing on sustainable rural development. The fund has successfully created over 150 jobs in rural Colorado and has reported five notable exits, including Mercury Payment Systems and Smartwool.
Howdy Partners invests in early-stage companies located in rural Colorado, typically providing first-check capital ranging from $250,000 to $500,000. Their investment strategy highlights the strategic advantages of building outside major urban hubs, recognizing the exceptional talent and opportunities present in these overlooked areas. Key sectors of interest include agriculture technology (AgTech), artificial intelligence (AI), aerospace, cybersecurity, energy, and government technology (GovTech).
The firm emphasizes community-aligned values and sustainable rural development, seeking founders who are committed to their local communities. Greater Colorado Venture Fund focuses on pre-seed and seed-stage investments, often acting as the first institutional capital for startups. Their approach includes not only financial support but also strategic guidance tailored to the unique challenges faced by rural entrepreneurs.
Greater Colorado Venture Fund has a diverse portfolio of 29 companies, showcasing its commitment to rural innovation. Notable portfolio companies include:
Additionally, the firm has achieved notable exits with companies such as Mercury Payment Systems, Osprey, Big B's, and Smartwool, highlighting its successful track record in supporting rural entrepreneurs.
Cory Finney: Founder and Managing Partner. Cory is known for his commitment to traveling across Colorado to meet rural founders, leveraging his extensive experience in venture capital to support local entrepreneurs.
Marc Nager: Founder and Managing Partner. Marc brings a wealth of experience in early-stage investing and has a strong focus on community-driven entrepreneurship.
Jamie Finney: Founder and Venture Partner. Jamie plays a crucial role in guiding portfolio companies and ensuring alignment with the fund's mission.
Kiki Hooton: Community & Events. Kiki is responsible for fostering community engagement and organizing events that connect entrepreneurs with resources and support.
To pitch Greater Colorado Venture Fund, founders should submit their proposals through the firm's website at greatercolorado.vc. It is important to include a detailed business plan, market analysis, and a clear explanation of how the startup aligns with community values. The firm prefers pitches that highlight the unique advantages of building in rural Colorado.
Response times can vary, but founders should expect to hear back within a few weeks. Warm introductions are beneficial but not strictly necessary.
In 2023, Greater Colorado Venture Fund successfully raised approximately $25 million for its second fund, continuing its mission to support rural entrepreneurs. This fund aims for a five-year deployment window and has renewed its partnership with the Colorado Venture Capital Authority.
In recent months, the firm has made several investments in early-stage companies, focusing on sectors such as AgTech and AI. Notable portfolio companies include Agile Space Industries and Kamiwaza AI, both of which are making significant strides in their respective fields.
Additionally, the firm has been featured in various press releases and articles highlighting its impact on rural innovation and economic development in Colorado.
What are Greater Colorado Venture Fund's investment criteria?
The firm focuses on early-stage companies located in rural Colorado, particularly those that align with community values. They typically invest between $250,000 and $500,000 as first-check capital.
How can I pitch to Greater Colorado Venture Fund?
Interested founders can submit their pitches through the firm's website at greatercolorado.vc. It is recommended to include a clear business model, market analysis, and alignment with community values in the pitch.
What makes Greater Colorado Venture Fund different from other VCs?
This fund is specifically focused on rural Colorado, emphasizing sustainable development and community alignment. They provide not only capital but also strategic guidance tailored to the unique challenges of rural entrepreneurs.
What is the geographic scope of Greater Colorado Venture Fund?
The firm exclusively invests in rural areas of Colorado, outside the major urban hubs like Denver and Boulder, targeting overlooked markets with high growth potential.
What is the fund size and check size range?
Greater Colorado Venture Fund manages approximately $25 million and typically invests between $250,000 and $500,000 in each startup.
What kind of post-investment support does the fund provide?
The firm offers strategic guidance and support tailored to the unique challenges faced by rural entrepreneurs, leveraging their extensive network and local knowledge.
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