Discover if this is a suitable investor for your startup. If they are we'll make a warm introduction for free. Otherwise, we'll connect you with matching investors.
Humans of the Internet (HOTI) is a seed stage venture capital fund founded by Jacob Smith and Zac Smith. Established in the United States, HOTI focuses on investing in individuals and teams within the technology ecosystem. The firm emphasizes the importance of sustainability, diversity of thought, and elevating new voices in technology.
HOTI is particularly interested in the 'picks and shovels' that support technology platforms, investing in projects that operate transparently and aim to create a positive impact on the world. The fund collaborates with several small funds, including Mango Capital, CORI Innovation Fund, and Work-Bench, to enhance its outreach and impact.
As of now, HOTI has not disclosed its fund size or check sizes, but it operates primarily in the United States and has a growing portfolio of companies focused on infrastructure and enabling technology.
Humans of the Internet (HOTI) targets seed stage investments in sectors such as AI, SaaS, fintech, healthcare, biotech, consumer, creator economy, commerce, energy, and climate. The firm is particularly interested in foundational tools and resources that support technology platforms, emphasizing investments in infrastructure and enabling technology.
HOTI seeks projects that prioritize sustainability and diversity of thought, aiming for a positive societal impact. The firm values transparency in operations and supports builders who contribute to open work environments. Founders developing technologies that connect physical and digital systems, as well as those focused on internet infrastructure and developer tools, align well with HOTI's investment thesis.
Humans of the Internet (HOTI) has invested in several notable portfolio companies, including:
Additionally, HOTI collaborates with various small funds, including York IE, OSS Capital, Energy Impact Fund, and others, to enhance its investment strategy and support its portfolio companies.
Jacob Smith - Co-Founder of HOTI, Jacob has a background in technology investment and entrepreneurship. His expertise lies in identifying and supporting innovative projects within the technology ecosystem.
Zac Smith - Co-Founder of HOTI, Zac brings experience in venture capital and a strong commitment to sustainability and diversity in technology. He focuses on building relationships with founders and fostering collaborative investment opportunities.
To pitch HOTI, founders should visit their website at hoti.vc. It is recommended to include a clear outline of the project's impact, sustainability efforts, and alignment with HOTI's focus on foundational technology. While specific response time expectations are not disclosed, founders should prepare for a thorough review process.
As of April 2026, HOTI has been actively involved in several funding rounds, including a $9 million seed round for Flexnode in February 2024 and a $5.4 million seed round for Streamdal in February 2023. The firm continues to support its portfolio companies and expand its network of aligned small funds.
What are HOTI's investment criteria?
HOTI focuses on seed stage investments in technology sectors, particularly those related to infrastructure and enabling technology. The firm seeks projects that emphasize sustainability, diversity of thought, and transparency.
How can I pitch to HOTI?
Founders can pitch HOTI through their website at hoti.vc. It is advisable to include details about the project's impact, sustainability efforts, and how it aligns with HOTI's focus on foundational technology.
What makes HOTI different from other VC firms?
HOTI emphasizes collaboration with other small funds and prioritizes investments in projects that operate transparently and aim for positive social impact. Their commitment to sustainability and diversity sets them apart in the venture capital landscape.
What is HOTI's geographic focus?
HOTI primarily invests in the United States but does not have explicit geographic restrictions on its investments.
What is the typical check size for HOTI?
HOTI has not disclosed specific check sizes, but it operates as a seed stage fund, indicating that investments are likely to be in the early funding rounds of startups.
What kind of support does HOTI provide to its portfolio companies?
HOTI offers access to a network of aligned small funds and emphasizes a collaborative approach to building technology. The firm supports founders who prioritize open work and positive social impact.
All trademarks, logos and brand names are the property of their respective owners. All company, product and service names used in this website are for identification purposes only. Use of these names, trademarks, and brands does not imply endorsement.