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.
Ideaship Fund is a venture capital firm established in 2017 and based in Portland, Oregon. The firm is affiliated with GTT Group, a global patent strategy and brokerage firm, which enhances its unique approach to investing. Ideaship focuses on startups that create novel and patentable innovations, providing a distinctive blend of capital and strategic patent services. The firm was founded to support inventor-founders by aligning patent strategy with business strategy, thereby enhancing company valuation and facilitating liquidity.
As of 2024, Ideaship has raised approximately $4.7 million for its third fund, targeting around 40 U.S.-based startups by 2024. The firm has made over 48 investments, demonstrating its active role in the early-stage investment landscape. Ideaship's model emphasizes a services-for-equity approach, where it provides patent filing and strategy services in exchange for equity stakes in portfolio companies. This model allows startups to focus on innovation while ensuring their intellectual property is well-protected.
Ideaship invests primarily in early-stage startups across the United States, with a strong emphasis on sectors such as biotech, healthcare, energy, consumer products, climate technology, and robotics. The firm targets seed and Series A stages, making small cash investments while providing significant value through its patent strategy services. Ideaship seeks startups that demonstrate novelty and the potential for patentable innovations, aligning its investment thesis with the goal of enhancing company valuations through effective patent management.
The firm offers services related to patent strategy, claim development, and curation in exchange for equity. This unique approach helps startups articulate and protect their core patents while developing effective fundraising strategies. Ideaship's focus on integrating patent strategy with business development positions it as a valuable partner for startups aiming to navigate the complexities of intellectual property and fundraising.
Ideaship's portfolio includes a diverse range of companies that exemplify its focus on patentable innovations. Notable portfolio companies include:
Among these, Gadusol stands out as a notable exit, showcasing Ideaship's ability to support companies through to successful liquidity events.
Michael Lubitz: Senior Managing Director and Founder of Ideaship, Michael has extensive experience in venture capital and startup development.
Byron Godsey: Finance Director, Byron oversees financial operations and investment analysis at Ideaship.
John Brancolini: Provides strategic due diligence and patent development support, leveraging his expertise in intellectual property.
Josh Sibble: Offers operational and strategic guidance to portfolio companies, helping them navigate growth challenges.
Josh Wylie: Focuses on venture capital and strategic partnerships, facilitating connections that benefit portfolio companies.
Kari Lubitz: Managing Director of Marketing, Kari is responsible for Ideaship's branding and outreach efforts.
Masaaki (Matt) Murata: Provides patent development and prosecution support, ensuring that portfolio companies' innovations are well-protected.
Sammy Lubitz: Involved in strategic management and planning, Sammy contributes to the overall direction of the firm.
To pitch Ideaship, founders should send an email to contact@ideashipfund.com. It is advisable to include a comprehensive pitch deck that outlines the startup's innovation, market opportunity, and patent strategy. Ideaship prefers detailed presentations that highlight the potential for patentable innovations.
Response times may vary, but founders can generally expect feedback within a few weeks. Warm introductions are beneficial but not strictly necessary.
As of April 2024, Ideaship has made significant strides in its investment activities, having completed over 48 investments since its inception. The firm recently launched its third fund, raising approximately $4.7 million, which targets around 40 U.S.-based startups by 2024.
Notable recent investments include Canopii, Photon Marine, Clickvoyant, Wonderfil, and mPathic, showcasing Ideaship's commitment to supporting innovative startups across various sectors. The firm continues to focus on integrating patent strategy with business development, enhancing the value it provides to portfolio companies.
What are Ideaship's investment criteria?
Ideaship focuses on early-stage startups in the United States that emphasize novelty and the potential for patentable innovations. The firm invests in sectors such as biotech, healthcare, energy, consumer products, climate technology, and robotics.
How can founders pitch to Ideaship?
Founders can reach out to Ideaship via email at contact@ideashipfund.com. It is recommended to include a detailed pitch deck that outlines the startup's innovation, market potential, and patent strategy.
What makes Ideaship different from other VCs?
Ideaship integrates patent strategy services with its investment approach, providing startups with essential support in developing and protecting their intellectual property. This unique model enhances the overall valuation of portfolio companies.
What is the typical check size for investments?
Ideaship typically makes small cash investments, focusing on providing high-value patent strategy services rather than large capital injections. This allows them to support a greater number of startups.
What is Ideaship's post-investment involvement?
After investing, Ideaship actively supports its portfolio companies by assisting with patent strategy, claim development, and fundraising strategies, ensuring that startups maintain healthy patent portfolios throughout their growth journey.
What is the expected timeline for response after pitching?
While specific timelines are not publicly disclosed, founders can expect a response within a few weeks after submitting their pitch to Ideaship.
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.