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Kickstart Fund is a pre-seed and seed venture capital fund established in 2008, recognized as the first dedicated seed investor in the Mountain West region of the United States. The fund primarily targets promising entrepreneurs and their ventures in states such as Utah, Colorado, and Arizona. Kickstart Fund has built a reputation for its commitment to fostering innovation and growth in early-stage startups.
Currently, Kickstart Fund manages a portfolio of over 150 companies, reflecting its active engagement in the startup ecosystem. The firm focuses on providing not only capital but also strategic guidance and support to its portfolio companies, leveraging its extensive network and expertise. The team consists of experienced professionals who are well-versed in the dynamics of early-stage investing.
Kickstart Fund has achieved notable milestones since its inception, including successful exits such as Angel Studios. The firm continues to play a significant role in the development of the startup landscape in the Mountain West, contributing to the growth of various sectors.
Kickstart Fund invests in early-stage startups across multiple sectors, including SaaS, fintech, healthcare, consumer products, and marketplaces. The firm participates in pre-seed, seed, and seed+ funding rounds, often acting as a lead investor or participant in these rounds. The typical check size ranges from $500,000 to $3 million, allowing the fund to support startups at various stages of their development.
The firm emphasizes its commitment to the Mountain West region, focusing on innovative entrepreneurs who are addressing significant market needs. Kickstart Fund looks for founders who demonstrate strong vision and execution capabilities, as well as a deep understanding of their respective markets. The investment strategy is designed to identify and nurture startups that have the potential for substantial growth and impact.
Kickstart Fund's portfolio includes a diverse range of companies, showcasing its investment across various sectors. Notable portfolio companies include:
This diverse portfolio reflects Kickstart Fund's strategy of investing in innovative solutions across different industries, contributing to the growth of the startup ecosystem in the Mountain West.
Gavin Christensen: Founder & General Partner. Gavin has extensive experience in venture capital and has led numerous successful investments in early-stage startups.
Kat Kennedy: General Partner. Kat brings a wealth of knowledge in startup operations and has been instrumental in guiding portfolio companies.
Dalton Wright: General Partner. Dalton has a strong background in finance and investment, focusing on identifying high-potential startups.
Alex Soffe: General Partner & CFO. Alex oversees financial operations and has a deep understanding of venture capital fund management.
Tanner Potter: Partner. Tanner specializes in supporting portfolio companies with operational strategies and growth initiatives.
Kristin Gonzales: Director of Finance. Kristin manages financial planning and analysis for the fund.
Matt Smith: Principal. Matt focuses on sourcing new investment opportunities and supporting portfolio companies.
Anna Sophia Rowe: Associate. Anna assists in deal sourcing and due diligence processes.
Kimball Palmer: Associate. Kimball supports portfolio management and operational initiatives.
Karen Zelnick: Senior Director of Platform. Karen enhances the value provided to portfolio companies through strategic resources and support.
Rebecca Trusty: Executive Assistant. Rebecca supports the team with administrative functions and coordination.
To pitch to Kickstart Fund, founders should visit their pitch page. It is important to include a comprehensive overview of the business, including the problem being solved, the target market, and the team’s qualifications. Kickstart Fund prefers pitches that are concise and focused, highlighting key metrics and milestones.
Response times can vary, but founders should expect to hear back within a few weeks. Warm introductions are beneficial but not strictly necessary for submission.
In recent months, Kickstart Fund has been actively engaging with the startup ecosystem. Notably, DiversiFi recently raised $8 million and launched publicly, showcasing the fund's ongoing momentum in supporting innovative companies.
Kickstart Fund continues to expand its portfolio, which now includes over 150 active companies, reflecting its commitment to early-stage investing in the Mountain West region.
What are Kickstart Fund's investment criteria?
Kickstart Fund focuses on early-stage startups in the Mountain West region, particularly in sectors such as SaaS, fintech, healthcare, consumer products, and marketplaces. The fund looks for innovative entrepreneurs with strong vision and execution capabilities.
How can I apply or pitch to Kickstart Fund?
Founders can pitch to Kickstart Fund by visiting their pitch page. It is recommended to provide a clear overview of the business model, market opportunity, and team background in the pitch.
What makes Kickstart Fund different from other VCs?
Kickstart Fund is the first dedicated seed investor in the Mountain West, focusing specifically on supporting early-stage startups in this region. The fund provides not only capital but also strategic guidance and access to a robust network.
What is the geographic scope of Kickstart Fund's investments?
The fund primarily invests in startups located in Utah, Colorado, Arizona, and surrounding states, emphasizing its commitment to the Mountain West region.
What is the typical check size for investments?
Kickstart Fund typically invests between $500,000 and $3 million in early-stage funding rounds, allowing them to lead or participate in various funding opportunities.
What kind of post-investment involvement does Kickstart Fund have?
Kickstart Fund actively engages with its portfolio companies, providing strategic guidance, operational support, and access to its extensive network to help drive growth and success.
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