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KEC Ventures is an early-stage venture capital firm founded in 2011 by Jeff Citron and a team of entrepreneurs in New York City. The firm focuses on supporting innovative startups through strategic investments and operational guidance. KEC Ventures has established itself as a significant player in the venture capital landscape, with a total AUM of approximately $165 million across three funds, including Fund I at $40 million, Fund II at $60 million, and Fund III at $65 million.
With a portfolio of over 70 companies, KEC Ventures emphasizes a founder-first approach, leveraging the entrepreneurial experience of its team to provide essential support to startups. The firm primarily invests in North America, particularly in the New York City, Los Angeles, and Chicago ecosystems, while also maintaining some exposure to Israeli tech markets.
KEC Ventures specializes in early-stage investments, targeting pre-seed, seed, and Series A rounds. The firm has a broad sector mandate, focusing on tech-enabled consumer products, B2B software, edtech, martech, media, fintech, SaaS, consumer, and industrial sectors. KEC Ventures seeks to invest in disruptive companies that demonstrate potential for significant growth and innovation.
The firm typically writes checks ranging from $100,000 to $5 million, allowing for flexibility in supporting startups at various stages of their development. KEC Ventures looks for founders who are passionate, driven, and possess a clear vision for their businesses. The firm values operational support and strategic guidance, aiming to help portfolio companies navigate the challenges of scaling effectively.
KEC Ventures has built a diverse portfolio of over 70 companies, showcasing its commitment to various sectors. Notable portfolio companies include:
KEC Ventures has also achieved notable exits, including:
Jeffrey (Jeff) A. Citron - Founder and Managing Partner. Jeff Citron is a serial entrepreneur and the founder of Vonage, where he served as Chairman. He also leads KEC Holdings LLC, the Citron family's private investment vehicle. Citron has been featured in CNBC for his interest in Israeli tech.
Jeffrey Parkinson - General Partner at KEC Ventures, involved in managing KEC Fund I and II. His background includes extensive experience in venture capital and startup operations.
To pitch KEC Ventures, founders should visit their website at kecventures.com and submit their pitch deck via the contact form or email info@kecventures.com. The pitch deck should include key information such as the business model, market analysis, competitive landscape, and team qualifications. KEC Ventures typically responds within a few weeks, and warm introductions are preferred but not mandatory.
As of 2023, KEC Ventures has made over 70 investments since its inception in 2011. The firm has achieved 12 confirmed exits, including notable companies like Wedding Spot, FireBlade, and Kanvas, which was acquired by AOL. Recent portfolio highlights include active companies such as Gooten, RentSpree, The Bouqs Company, Fabletics, and feed.fm.
KEC Ventures continues to focus on early-stage investments, maintaining its commitment to supporting disruptive startups across various sectors. The firm is actively seeking new opportunities to invest in innovative companies that align with its founder-first philosophy.
What are KEC Ventures' investment criteria?
KEC Ventures invests in early-stage companies primarily in pre-seed, seed, and Series A rounds. The firm focuses on tech-enabled consumer products and B2B software, among other sectors.
How can I pitch KEC Ventures?
Founders can pitch KEC Ventures by visiting their website at kecventures.com or by emailing info@kecventures.com. A well-prepared pitch deck should include details about the business model, market opportunity, and team background.
What makes KEC Ventures different from other VCs?
KEC Ventures is founded by entrepreneurs for entrepreneurs, emphasizing a founder-first approach. The firm provides not only capital but also strategic guidance and operational support to help startups scale effectively.
What is the geographic focus of KEC Ventures?
KEC Ventures primarily invests in North America, with a strong presence in New York City, Los Angeles, and Chicago. The firm also has some exposure to Israeli tech markets.
What is the typical check size for investments?
KEC Ventures typically invests between $100,000 and $5 million in its portfolio companies, allowing for flexibility based on the needs of the startup.
What kind of support can portfolio companies expect?
KEC Ventures provides strategic guidance, operational support, and access to a network of experienced entrepreneurs and industry experts, helping startups navigate growth challenges.
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