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Hesperia Capital is a private investment platform founded in 2023 by Michael Papile and Rhett Hunter, both of whom have extensive backgrounds in investment banking. The firm is headquartered in the United States and focuses on growth equity investments in mission-driven companies. Hesperia Capital aims to create enduring value for shareholders, employees, customers, and their communities by supporting businesses that prioritize both profitability and a worthy mission.
Since its inception, Hesperia Capital has established itself as a player in the growth equity space, targeting companies that are recently profitable or have near-term visibility of profitability. The firm emphasizes long-term value creation and a purpose-driven culture, aligning its investments with companies that generate attractive returns on capital. Hesperia Capital's portfolio spans various sectors, including healthcare, AI, water-tech, and climate.
Hesperia Capital invests in profit-oriented companies that balance a worthy mission with a desire to create prosperity for stakeholders. The firm specifically targets companies that are recently profitable or have near-term visibility of profitability, ensuring they generate attractive returns on capital. Investments typically range from $1,000,000 to $5,000,000 in convertible preferred stock, focusing primarily on minority positions with protective provisions.
The firm seeks to partner with management teams that are complete or nearly complete, emphasizing the importance of a strong leadership structure. Hesperia Capital's investment strategy is rooted in the belief that financial performance should align with positive community impact, making it an ideal partner for companies that prioritize social responsibility alongside profitability.
Hesperia Capital's portfolio includes a diverse range of companies across various sectors:
These companies exemplify Hesperia Capital's commitment to investing in mission-driven businesses that create lasting value for their stakeholders.
Michael Papile - Co-Founder; brings over 30 years of experience as an advisor, investor, and lender across various sectors. He previously worked at Robertson Stephens, where he met Rhett Hunter during the late-1990s tech boom.
Rhett Hunter - Co-Founder; also a former Robertson Stephens banker, he has extensive experience in investment and advisory roles, contributing to the firm's strategic direction and investment decisions.
To pitch Hesperia Capital, founders should send an email to mission@hesperiacapital.com. It is important to include a comprehensive pitch deck that outlines the business model, market opportunity, and financial projections. The firm prefers detailed information about the management team and the company's mission-driven approach.
Response times may vary, but founders should expect to hear back within a few weeks. Warm introductions are beneficial but not strictly necessary.
In August 2024, Hesperia Capital participated in a $12.5M funding round for BeMe Health, a mobile mental health platform for teens and young adults.
In April 2026, SimpliFed, a maternal health company, raised over $10 million in an oversubscribed Series A, with Hesperia Capital referenced in the company's investor network.
What are Hesperia Capital's investment criteria?
Hesperia Capital invests in profit-oriented companies that are recently profitable or have near-term visibility of profitability. The firm looks for businesses that balance a worthy mission with a purpose-driven culture and generate attractive returns on capital.
How can I pitch to Hesperia Capital?
Founders can reach out to Hesperia Capital via email at mission@hesperiacapital.com. It is advisable to include a detailed pitch deck that outlines the business model, market opportunity, and financial projections.
What makes Hesperia Capital different from other investors?
The firm emphasizes mission-driven investments that create enduring value for stakeholders. Hesperia Capital focuses on long-term value creation and supports companies that prioritize social impact alongside profitability.
What is the typical check size for investments?
Hesperia Capital typically invests between $1,000,000 and $5,000,000 in convertible preferred stock, primarily targeting minority positions with protective provisions.
What sectors does Hesperia Capital focus on?
The firm invests in various sectors, including healthcare, AI, water-tech, and climate, aligning its portfolio with companies that have a positive community impact.
What kind of support does Hesperia Capital provide to portfolio companies?
Hesperia Capital adds value by providing strategic guidance and support to help portfolio companies achieve their mission-driven goals, emphasizing long-term value creation.
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