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Human Ventures is a venture capital firm founded in 2015 in New York City. The firm operates with a hybrid model that combines a venture fund, a startup studio, and an Entrepreneur-in-Residence (EIR) program known as 'Humans in the Wild.' This unique approach allows Human Ventures to partner closely with founders from the earliest stages of their ventures, providing them with the necessary resources and support to bring their ideas to market.
As of 2024, Human Ventures has raised approximately $50 million for its second fund and has made around 98 to 101 investments, including notable exits and acquisitions. The firm emphasizes a human-first approach to investing, focusing on companies that address essential human needs across various sectors. The team consists of about eight members, including five partners, and is led by CEO and Founding Partner Heather Hartnett.
Human Ventures operates from its office located at 225 Liberty St, 29th Floor, New York, NY 10281. The firm has established a reputation for its commitment to supporting entrepreneurs and fostering innovation in the health and wellness sectors, among others.
Human Ventures invests primarily in early-stage companies, specifically in the pre-seed, seed, and seed-plus stages. The firm targets sectors that address essential human needs, including healthcare, consumer products, SaaS, and commerce. Their investment strategy is centered around the belief that addressing fundamental human needs is critical for economic growth and innovation.
The firm employs a collaborative platform that includes a Build Studio designed to help entrepreneurs develop their ideas into launch-ready companies. Additionally, Human Ventures runs an Entrepreneur-in-Residence (EIR) program, which fosters community among entrepreneurs and provides them with mentorship and resources. The typical check size for initial investments is around $500,000, and the firm aims to make 12 to 18 investments per fund cycle.
Human Ventures has built a diverse portfolio of companies that reflect its focus on essential human needs. Notable portfolio companies include:
These companies exemplify Human Ventures' commitment to investing in innovative solutions that cater to the health and wellness of individuals and communities.
Heather Hartnett: General Partner and CEO. Hartnett has a background in venture capital and entrepreneurship, with a focus on human-centric innovation.
Joe Marchese: Executive Chairman and Build Partner. Marchese brings extensive experience in media and technology, having previously led successful ventures in these sectors.
Michael Letta: General Partner, COO, and CFO. Letta has a strong financial background, previously serving as CFO for charity:water.
Chelsea Boyes: Head of Accounting. Boyes oversees the financial operations of the firm, ensuring compliance and efficiency.
Elise King: Principal. King focuses on sourcing and evaluating investment opportunities across various sectors.
Laura Van Wettering: Executive Assistant. Van Wettering supports the executive team in daily operations and strategic initiatives.
Melanie Price: Head of Community. Price is responsible for fostering relationships within the portfolio and the broader entrepreneurial community.
Michael Jurek: Director of Finance. Jurek manages the financial strategy and reporting for the firm.
To pitch Human Ventures, founders should reach out via email at human@human.vc. It is recommended to include a comprehensive pitch deck that outlines the business concept, market analysis, competitive landscape, and team qualifications. The firm prefers to receive pitches through this channel rather than through other means.
Founders can expect a response within a few weeks, depending on the volume of inquiries. A warm introduction is not strictly necessary but can enhance the chances of receiving a timely review.
Human Ventures runs the 'Humans in the Wild' program, a 100-day incubation initiative designed for early-stage founders. This program provides resources and support to help entrepreneurs develop their ideas into fundable startups without taking equity during the incubation period. The program includes weekly meetings with Human Ventures executives and access to a network of advisors.
In April 2024, Human Ventures announced that it had raised approximately $50 million for its second fund, which is actively deploying capital into early-stage companies. In June 2025, the firm invested $4 million in Salvo Health during its seed round. Additionally, in September 2025, Human Ventures made a seed investment in Parento.
Notably, the firm celebrated the acquisition of theSkimm by Ziff Davis in March 2025, marking a significant exit for its portfolio.
What are Human Ventures' investment criteria?
Human Ventures focuses on early-stage companies that address essential human needs across various sectors, including healthcare, consumer products, SaaS, and commerce. They typically invest in pre-seed, seed, and seed-plus stages, with initial check sizes around $500,000.
How can I apply or pitch to Human Ventures?
Founders can pitch their ideas to Human Ventures by reaching out via email at human@human.vc. It is advisable to include a detailed pitch deck that outlines the business model, market opportunity, and team background.
What makes Human Ventures different from other VC firms?
Human Ventures adopts a human-first approach to investing, emphasizing support for entrepreneurs through their Build Studio and EIR program. This model allows them to provide operational support and mentorship, which is often not available from traditional venture capital firms.
What is the geographic scope of Human Ventures?
The firm primarily focuses on investments within the United States, with a strong emphasis on New York City. They seek to partner with local entrepreneurs who are addressing pressing human needs.
What is the post-investment involvement like?
Human Ventures maintains a hands-on approach post-investment, providing ongoing support through weekly accountability meetings, access to their Manhattan office, and connections to enterprise customers and partnerships.
What is the size of Human Ventures' funds?
As of April 2024, Human Ventures has raised approximately $50 million for its second fund, which is actively deploying capital into promising early-stage companies.
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