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Inverted Ventures is a family office based in Chicago, Illinois, that specializes in supporting early-stage founders at the pre-seed and seed stages. Founded by Joe Holberg, a former Computer Science Teaching Fellow at Google, the firm emphasizes investments in bold ideas that have the potential to disrupt existing markets. Holberg's background in product strategy and innovation informs the firm's approach to identifying and nurturing promising startups.
The organization operates primarily in the United States, with a particular focus on entrepreneurs who have connections to Google or are based in the Chicago area. Inverted Ventures positions itself as a first-money-in investor, leading rounds and providing not only capital but also strategic guidance to its portfolio companies. The firm has made notable angel investments and continues to seek out innovative solutions that contribute to a better future.
Inverted Ventures invests in early-stage companies, particularly in the fintech and SaaS sectors. The firm targets passionate founders with innovative ideas, especially those with backgrounds at Google or ties to the Chicago area. This focus allows Inverted Ventures to support ventures that aim to create significant paradigm shifts in their respective markets.
The investment strategy encompasses pre-seed and seed stages, with the firm willing to lead rounds without needing another lead investor. Inverted Ventures is open to various sectors but has a strong inclination towards technology that radically improves the human experience. The organization seeks to partner with founders who are driven and possess a clear vision for their startups, aligning with the firm’s mission to finance transformative ideas.
Inverted Ventures has made notable investments in early-stage companies, including:
While additional portfolio companies have not been publicly disclosed, the firm is known for its angel investments and commitment to supporting startups that align with its investment thesis.
Joe Holberg - Managing Partner. Joe has a background as a Computer Science Teaching Fellow at Google from 2013 to 2015. He has experience in product strategy and innovation, which informs his investment decisions at Inverted Ventures. Holberg is also associated with a company called 'Spring' and has made notable angel investments in the Chicago area.
To pitch Inverted Ventures, founders should send their pitch deck and overview directly to info@invertedventures.com. The firm encourages direct communication and values clarity in the presentation of ideas. While warm introductions are appreciated, they are not a prerequisite for submission.
Founders should include key information in their decks, such as the problem being addressed, the solution offered, market potential, and the team's background. Response times may vary, but the firm is known for being responsive to inquiries.
As of March 2026, Inverted Ventures continues to focus on early-stage investments in fintech and SaaS sectors. The firm has been actively seeking out passionate founders with innovative ideas, particularly those with ties to Google or the Chicago area. Joe Holberg's recent podcast appearance on 'Inside the Loop' highlighted the firm's investment strategy and commitment to supporting paradigm-shifting companies.
What are Inverted Ventures' investment criteria?
Inverted Ventures focuses on early-stage companies at the pre-seed and seed stages, particularly in the fintech and SaaS sectors. The firm seeks passionate founders with innovative ideas, especially those with ties to Google or the Chicago area.
How can I apply or pitch to Inverted Ventures?
Interested parties can send their pitch deck and overview directly via email to info@invertedventures.com. While warm introductions are helpful, they are not required.
What makes Inverted Ventures different from other investors?
The firm positions itself as a first-money-in investor, leading rounds and providing strategic guidance alongside capital. This approach allows them to support founders from the outset of their ventures.
What is the geographic scope of Inverted Ventures?
Inverted Ventures primarily invests in the United States, with a focus on the Chicago area and founders with connections to Google. They also consider opportunities in Canada and globally.
What is the typical check size for investments?
Specific check sizes have not been disclosed, but Inverted Ventures is known for leading rounds as a first-money-in investor, indicating a willingness to provide substantial initial funding.
What kind of post-investment involvement can founders expect?
Inverted Ventures provides strategic guidance and support to its portfolio companies, leveraging Joe Holberg's experience and network to assist founders in navigating their growth challenges.
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