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Icehouse Ventures is a prominent venture capital firm based in New Zealand, founded in 2003. It originated from Ice Angels, New Zealand's first angel network, which was established to support local innovators. Over the years, Icehouse Ventures has evolved into one of the most active venture capital investors in New Zealand, having invested over NZ$631 million in more than 375 companies. The firm operates a diverse suite of funds, each tailored to different stages of company growth, and boasts a network of over 3,000 investors, solidifying its role as a cornerstone of the New Zealand startup ecosystem.
With a team of over 20 members, Icehouse Ventures has developed a reputation for its commitment to supporting early-stage companies. The firm has received recognition for its contributions to the local startup scene, including winning the NZ Private Capital Firm of the Year award. Its office is located in Auckland, New Zealand, where it continues to foster innovation and growth among Kiwi entrepreneurs.
Icehouse Ventures invests across a wide range of sectors, including fintech, agtech, healthcare, consumer, logistics, and artificial intelligence. The firm targets early-stage to pre-IPO companies, providing capital that ranges from NZ$25,000 in initial rounds to over NZ$10 million in later stages. This investment strategy is designed to support Kiwi founders from the earliest stages of their journey through to global scaling.
The firm seeks to partner with brave Kiwi founders who are addressing significant global challenges. Icehouse Ventures emphasizes the importance of launching companies that can compete on a global scale, leveraging New Zealand's unique position and talent pool. Their investment criteria include a strong focus on innovative solutions and the potential for substantial market impact.
Icehouse Ventures has built an extensive portfolio of over 375 companies, showcasing its commitment to supporting diverse sectors. Notable portfolio companies include:
These companies represent a fraction of Icehouse Ventures' diverse portfolio, which spans various industries and stages of growth. The firm has been an early investor in many successful startups, contributing to their development and expansion.
Robbie Paul - CEO: Robbie has extensive experience in venture capital and has led numerous successful investments in New Zealand's startup ecosystem.
Jack McQuire - Partner: Jack specializes in fintech and has a strong background in technology investments, having worked with several high-growth startups.
Barnaby Marshall - Partner: Barnaby focuses on agtech and healthcare, bringing expertise from his previous roles in both sectors.
Jo Wickham - Partner: Jo has a background in consumer goods and logistics, contributing valuable insights to portfolio companies in these areas.
Jason Wang - Partner: Jason is known for his work in AI and software investments, helping startups navigate the complexities of technology development.
Tim Brown - Venture Partner: Tim brings a wealth of experience in scaling businesses and operational management.
Tom Furlong - Venture Partner: Tom focuses on strategic growth and market expansion for portfolio companies.
Peter Thomson - CTO: Peter oversees technology investments and provides technical guidance to startups.
Scott Turner - CFO: Scott manages financial operations and ensures sound fiscal practices within the firm.
Matt Gunn - COO: Matt is responsible for operational efficiency and supports portfolio companies in scaling their operations.
Felicity Richards - Business Support Manager: Felicity provides administrative support and helps streamline processes within the firm.
Christine Jensen - Head of Marketing: Christine leads marketing efforts to enhance the firm's visibility and attract new investment opportunities.
Mason Bleakley - Principal: Mason focuses on sourcing new investment opportunities and supporting portfolio companies.
Steph Benseman - Principal and Head of Portfolio Services: Steph oversees portfolio management and ensures that companies receive the necessary support.
Bex Gidall - Principal: Bex specializes in early-stage investments and works closely with founders to refine their business strategies.
Logan Gubb - Head of Design: Logan provides design expertise to help startups enhance their product offerings.
Seb McLarin - Financial Controller: Seb manages financial reporting and compliance for the firm.
Coco Low - Investor Compliance Specialist: Coco ensures that all investments comply with regulatory requirements.
Laila Grace - Associate & Portfolio Community Manager: Laila supports portfolio companies and fosters community engagement.
Bridgette Abernethy - Investment Intern: Bridgette assists with research and analysis for potential investments.
Becca Gaunt - Senior Legal Counsel: Becca provides legal guidance on investment agreements and compliance matters.
To pitch Icehouse Ventures, founders should send their pitch deck to hello@icehouseventures.co.nz. The deck should include an overview of the business model, market opportunity, competitive landscape, and team background. Icehouse Ventures prefers concise and clear presentations that highlight the startup's potential for growth.
Response times can vary, but founders can generally expect feedback within a few weeks. Warm introductions are beneficial, as they can facilitate a more favorable review process.
In 2023, Icehouse Ventures was recognized as the NZ Private Capital Firm of the Year, highlighting its significant contributions to the local startup ecosystem. The firm has invested over NZ$631 million in more than 375 companies since its inception in 2003.
Recently, Icehouse Ventures announced a partnership with New Zealand Trade and Enterprise (NZTE) for the Active Investor Plus visa program, indicating its involvement in government initiatives to support innovation and investment in New Zealand.
Icehouse Ventures continues to expand its portfolio, actively seeking new investment opportunities across various sectors, including fintech, agtech, and healthcare.
What are Icehouse Ventures' investment criteria?
Icehouse Ventures focuses on early-stage to pre-IPO companies across sectors such as fintech, agtech, healthcare, and consumer goods. They seek innovative solutions that address significant global challenges and prefer to partner with Kiwi founders.
How can I apply or pitch to Icehouse Ventures?
Founders can reach out to Icehouse Ventures via their email at hello@icehouseventures.co.nz. A well-prepared pitch deck that outlines the business model, market opportunity, and team is essential for consideration.
What makes Icehouse Ventures different from other VCs?
Icehouse Ventures is deeply embedded in the New Zealand startup ecosystem, with a network of over 3,000 investors. Their focus on supporting Kiwi innovators and their extensive experience in various stages of investment set them apart.
What is the geographic scope of Icehouse Ventures?
The firm primarily invests in companies based in New Zealand and Oceania, emphasizing local talent and innovation while also considering global market potential.
What is the typical check size for investments?
Icehouse Ventures provides capital ranging from NZ$25,000 in initial rounds to over NZ$10 million in later stages, allowing them to support companies as they grow.
What kind of post-investment involvement does Icehouse Ventures have?
Icehouse Ventures actively supports its portfolio companies through strategic guidance, access to a large pool of investors, and operational support, helping them scale effectively.
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