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Grind Ventures is a venture capital firm based in Bossier City, Louisiana, founded in 2018. The firm focuses on dual-use technology investments that serve both commercial and defense sectors. It operates a $20 million Seed Stage Accelerator Fund aimed at supporting national security and critical industry companies in the Southeastern United States. Grind Ventures has a proven track record, achieving over 3X return on investment across 12 investments made between 2017 and 2023.
The firm was previously known as Grind Capital, a subsidiary of Integrated Risk Management, LLC, before rebranding to Grind Ventures to launch its current fund vehicle. The firm’s leadership includes Grant Rogers, who has extensive experience in defense contracting and technology commercialization. Grind Ventures collaborates with institutions like Louisiana Tech University and AFWERX to enhance its investment strategy and support for portfolio companies.
Grind Ventures emphasizes the importance of bridging the gap between government and private sector technology development. The firm’s focus on the Southeastern United States positions it uniquely within a region that has a strong military presence but limited early-stage venture capital infrastructure.
Grind Ventures invests in dual-use technologies that align with national security priorities and commercial markets. The firm targets sectors such as cybersecurity, defense, artificial intelligence, robotics, IoT, telecommunications, biotechnology, and energy. Their investment strategy emphasizes sustainable business models with multiple revenue streams, navigating defense procurement, and scaling through commercial validation.
Grind Ventures seeks companies that can effectively bridge the gap between government and private sector technology development. The firm prioritizes founders with domain expertise, particularly veterans, who possess the operational perspective necessary for building defense-facing technologies. They also highlight the importance of access to both venture capital and government funding pathways, ensuring that portfolio companies can thrive in both commercial and defense markets.
Grind Ventures has made 12 investments between 2017 and 2023 through its predecessor vehicle, Grind Capital. However, specific portfolio companies have not been publicly disclosed. The firm claims a track record of achieving over 3X return on investment across these investments, indicating a strong performance in the dual-use technology sector.
While the names of the portfolio companies remain undisclosed, the firm’s focus on dual-use technologies suggests that these companies likely operate in sectors critical to national security and economic growth. The lack of publicly available portfolio data makes it challenging to assess the specific impact and success of these investments.
Grant Rogers — Managing Partner. Grant Rogers has a background in U.S. Army Human Intelligence Collection and counterintelligence analysis. He has held roles at General Dynamics IT, BAE Systems, and ABSC, focusing on defense contracting. He is also the CEO of Maven Scouts, a veteran-led accelerator that supports dual-use technology commercialization. Grant holds degrees from Indiana Wesleyan University, Colorado Christian University, and Syracuse University.
To pitch Grind Ventures, founders should use the public application link available on their website. It is advisable to include a clear overview of the technology, its dual-use applications, and the business model in the pitch deck. While specific application forms or portals are not disclosed, the firm operates on a rolling application cycle.
Response times are not specified, so founders should be prepared for varying timelines. Warm introductions may enhance the chances of a successful pitch, especially if they come from within the defense or technology sectors.
Grind Ventures operates the MavenWERX Accelerator, a 15-week program designed to support dual-use technology companies. This accelerator focuses on transitioning technologies from concept to contract, helping startups navigate the complexities of defense commercialization. Specific details regarding cohort size, investment amounts, or application deadlines are not disclosed.
In May 2023, Grind Ventures announced the launch of its $20 million Seed Stage Accelerator Fund, aimed at supporting innovation in critical industries, particularly in the Southeastern United States. This fund launch indicates a proactive approach to fostering innovation in dual-use technologies.
The firm has reported achieving over 3X return on investment across 12 investments made from 2017 to 2023, showcasing its commitment to supporting founders in critical sectors.
What are Grind Ventures' investment criteria?
Grind Ventures focuses on dual-use technologies that serve both commercial and defense sectors. They look for sustainable business models with multiple revenue streams and the ability to navigate defense procurement processes.
How can I pitch to Grind Ventures?
Founders can apply through the public pitch link available on their website. The application process is rolling, and specific deadlines are not disclosed.
What makes Grind Ventures different from other VCs?
Grind Ventures specializes in dual-use technologies and emphasizes support for founders with domain expertise, particularly veterans. Their focus on the Southeastern United States also differentiates them from other venture capital firms.
What is the typical check size for investments?
The specific check size range has not been disclosed, but the firm operates a $20 million Seed Stage Accelerator Fund.
What kind of support do portfolio companies receive?
Grind Ventures provides hands-on support to help portfolio companies navigate complex defense acquisition processes and access both commercial and government funding.
What is the expected return on investment?
Grind Ventures has achieved over 3X return on investment across its previous investments, indicating a strong performance in the dual-use technology sector.
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