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Karmel Capital is a private equity firm founded in 2013 and based in Solana Beach, California. The firm focuses on investing in high-growth enterprise software companies, particularly those leveraging disruptive technologies. Karmel Capital has established itself as a key player in the private equity space, with over $350 million in assets under management (AUM) and a current fund size of $170 million. The firm primarily engages in secondary transactions, acquiring stakes from existing shareholders in leading software firms to facilitate growth.
Since its inception, Karmel Capital has completed 35 investments and achieved 15 notable exits, showcasing its ability to identify and support high-potential companies. The firm operates from its office located at 512 Via de la Valle, Suite 207, Solana Beach, CA 92075. Karmel Capital's investment strategy emphasizes partnerships with innovative companies in the software sector, particularly those involved in AI infrastructure and enterprise software.
Karmel Capital invests in leading software companies across various verticals, with a strong emphasis on AI infrastructure and enterprise software. The firm engages in secondary transactions, allowing it to acquire stakes from existing shareholders and support growth in its portfolio companies. Karmel Capital's investment strategy is centered on identifying high-growth firms that leverage disruptive technologies and data science-powered software solutions.
The firm typically targets investments in companies that are at the forefront of innovation within the software industry. Karmel Capital seeks to partner with founders and management teams who demonstrate a clear vision and the capability to execute on their business models. The firm’s check sizes generally align with its fund size, allowing for significant investments in promising companies that fit its criteria.
Karmel Capital's portfolio includes a diverse range of notable companies, particularly in the SaaS and AI sectors. Key portfolio companies include:
These companies represent Karmel Capital's commitment to investing in high-growth firms that are leveraging technology to drive innovation and efficiency in their respective markets. The firm has also achieved notable exits with companies like CoreWeave, Moveworks, Netskope, Rubrik, and Squarespace, further demonstrating its successful investment strategy.
James Brailean, PhD: Managing Partner. James is a co-founder of Karmel Capital and has a background as a serial entrepreneur. He brings extensive experience in the software industry and has led multiple successful ventures.
Scott Neuberger: Managing Partner. Scott is also a co-founder of Karmel Capital and has a history of entrepreneurship. His expertise lies in identifying high-growth opportunities in the software sector.
Christian Buckley: COO. Christian serves as the Chief Operating Officer and General Counsel, overseeing the firm's operations and legal matters.
Antolin Garza: Partner. Antolin plays a key role in sourcing and managing investments, leveraging his experience in the software industry.
Jay Jamijian: Principal. Jay is involved in investment analysis and portfolio management, contributing to the firm's strategic decision-making.
To pitch Karmel Capital, founders should utilize the preferred channels of their website or email. It is essential to include a comprehensive pitch deck that outlines the business model, market opportunity, and financial projections. Karmel Capital typically responds to inquiries within a reasonable timeframe, but founders are encouraged to follow up if they do not receive a response.
Warm introductions can enhance the chances of securing a meeting, as Karmel Capital values referrals from trusted sources within the industry. Founders should ensure that their pitch is concise and focused, highlighting key differentiators and growth potential.
In September 2025, Karmel Capital achieved a notable exit with Netskope, further solidifying its track record in the private equity space. The firm continues to focus on high-growth enterprise software investments, with a current portfolio of 35 companies.
Karmel Capital's latest fund, targeting $170 million, aims to support 15-18 investments in AI infrastructure and enterprise software. This fund reflects the firm's commitment to backing innovative companies that leverage disruptive technologies.
What are Karmel Capital's investment criteria?
Karmel Capital focuses on high-growth enterprise software companies, particularly those involved in AI infrastructure and disruptive technologies. The firm engages in secondary transactions, acquiring stakes from existing shareholders to facilitate growth.
How can I apply or pitch to Karmel Capital?
Founders can pitch Karmel Capital through their website at karmelcapital.com or via email at hello@karmelcapital.com. It is advisable to include a detailed business plan and financial projections in the pitch deck.
What makes Karmel Capital different from other investors?
Karmel Capital specializes in secondary transactions, which allows them to provide strategic support to portfolio companies by acquiring stakes from existing shareholders. This model enables the firm to focus on established companies that are already demonstrating growth potential.
What is Karmel Capital's geographic scope?
The firm primarily invests in North America, specifically targeting companies based in the United States. This geographic focus allows Karmel Capital to leverage its local market knowledge and network.
What is the typical check size for investments?
Karmel Capital's check sizes align with its fund size of $170 million, allowing for significant investments in promising companies. The firm typically targets 15-18 investments per fund cycle.
What kind of post-investment involvement does Karmel Capital have?
Karmel Capital provides strategic support and resources to its portfolio companies, leveraging its expertise in enterprise software and disruptive technologies to help them scale effectively.
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