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Kern Venture Group (KVG) is a venture capital firm founded in 2018 and headquartered in Bakersfield, California. The firm focuses on investing in early-stage startups, specifically from pre-seed to Series B stages. KVG emphasizes supporting companies that have exceptional founders and transformational ideas, aiming to positively impact the local community and economy.
Since its inception, KVG has actively engaged with the local entrepreneurial ecosystem, welcoming innovative companies like BIOS to Kern County. The firm leverages the resources of California's Central Valley to support growing industries, contributing to economic development in the region.
As of now, KVG has built a diverse portfolio and continues to seek out opportunities that align with its mission of fostering innovation and supporting exceptional talent.
Kern Venture Group invests across a variety of sectors, including aerospace, defense, energy, natural resources, value-added agriculture, transportation, logistics, advanced manufacturing, and healthcare. The firm is industry agnostic, allowing it to explore a wide range of investment opportunities.
Investment stages range from pre-seed to Series B, indicating a broad approach to early-stage funding. KVG looks for startups with exceptional founders and transformational ideas that can leverage regional resources for growth. The firm aims to create a positive impact on the local community while supporting innovation and economic development.
Kern Venture Group's portfolio includes several notable companies:
This diverse portfolio reflects KVG's commitment to supporting transformative ideas across various industries.
David Higdon: Co-Founder of Kern Venture Group, with a background in venture capital and entrepreneurship.
John-Paul (JP) Lake: Co-Founder, experienced in early-stage investments and business development.
Jacob Panero: General Partner, specializing in operational support and strategic growth for portfolio companies.
Josh Gutierrez: General Partner, focused on sourcing and evaluating investment opportunities.
Daivik Buch: General Partner, with expertise in technology and innovation sectors.
Neeraj Rama: General Partner, experienced in finance and investment management.
To pitch Kern Venture Group, founders should use the contact form on their website or email David Higdon directly at david@kernvg.com. A clear and concise pitch deck that outlines the business model, market opportunity, and team background is essential. KVG appreciates warm introductions but is open to direct outreach as well.
As of 2023, Kern Venture Group has welcomed several companies into its portfolio, including BIOS, which has contributed significantly to the local entrepreneurial ecosystem. The firm continues to engage actively with startups in its target sectors, emphasizing its commitment to supporting transformative ideas.
While specific recent investments or exits have not been detailed, KVG's ongoing activities reflect its focus on fostering innovation and economic growth in the Central Valley.
What stages does Kern Venture Group invest in?
Kern Venture Group invests in early-stage startups from pre-seed to Series B stages.
What sectors does KVG focus on?
KVG is industry agnostic, investing in sectors such as aerospace, defense, energy, natural resources, agriculture, transportation, logistics, advanced manufacturing, and healthcare.
How can I pitch my startup to Kern Venture Group?
Founders can pitch their startups by visiting the contact page on the KVG website or by emailing David Higdon directly at david@kernvg.com.
What does KVG look for in founders?
KVG seeks exceptional founders with transformational ideas that can leverage regional resources for growth and positively impact the local community.
What is the typical check size for investments?
While specific check sizes are not disclosed, KVG focuses on early-stage investments, which typically range from pre-seed to Series B funding amounts.
What kind of support does KVG provide to portfolio companies?
Kern Venture Group actively engages with its portfolio companies, providing mentorship, resources, and access to its network to help them grow and succeed.
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