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Kindergarten Ventures is a San Francisco-based venture capital firm founded by David Rosenthal and Nat Manning. The firm was established to focus on updating the world for the 21st century, operating as a non-professional venture capital entity. This unique positioning allows Kindergarten Ventures to complement institutional VCs rather than compete with them. The firm utilizes an AngelList syndicate structure, enabling co-investments alongside larger institutional players.
Founded by two friends who met while playing Atari in kindergarten, Kindergarten Ventures has evolved into a notable player in the venture capital space. The firm has confirmed the existence of two funds, with Fund II approximately sized at $12 million. The firm’s investment strategy is heavily influenced by its relationship-driven approach, leveraging the Acquired podcast network to source high-quality deal flow.
Kindergarten Ventures invests across various sectors with a clear mission: to modernize and improve systems and services for contemporary needs. The firm targets startups at the pre-seed and Series A stages, typically writing checks around $250,000. This investment strategy is designed to support companies that align with their thesis of updating the world for the 21st century.
Through its AngelList syndicate structure, Kindergarten Ventures collaborates with institutional VCs, allowing for co-investments that enhance their reach and impact. The firm emphasizes a relationship-driven approach, sourcing deals primarily through the Acquired podcast network, which connects them with a community of founders and operators. This unique sourcing strategy not only signals company quality but also enhances deal flow, making Kindergarten Ventures a distinctive player in the venture capital landscape.
Kindergarten Ventures has made notable investments in innovative startups, including:
These investments reflect Kindergarten Ventures' commitment to supporting companies that are at the forefront of technological advancement and modernization.
David Rosenthal — Co-founder; co-host of the Acquired podcast, which is recognized as one of the world's top technology podcasts. He has over 10 years of venture capital experience, having worked at firms such as Madrona, Meritech, StartX, and Wave Capital.
Nat Manning — Co-founder; previously co-founded Kettle, an AI-driven climate insurtech. His background includes roles at BRCK, Wayfinder, FellowAI, Ushahidi, and the USAID Office of Science & Technology Policy.
To pitch Kindergarten Ventures, founders should visit their website at kindergarten.vc. It is recommended to include a clear overview of the startup's mission and how it aligns with the firm’s focus on modernizing systems. Founders should expect a response within a few weeks, and warm introductions through mutual connections are encouraged.
In recent months, Kindergarten Ventures has made significant strides in its investment activities. Notably, they led a $12 million SPV for Vanta's Series B secondary close, which was valued at $1.6 billion at the time of investment. Vanta has since raised at a $2.45 billion valuation, marking a successful outcome for the firm.
Additionally, Kindergarten Ventures continues to expand its portfolio with investments in innovative companies like Thred Technologies, further solidifying its commitment to modernizing systems and services.
What are Kindergarten Ventures' investment criteria?
Kindergarten Ventures focuses on startups that aim to modernize and improve systems and services for contemporary needs. They invest primarily at the pre-seed and Series A stages, with typical check sizes around $250,000.
How can I pitch Kindergarten Ventures?
Founders can pitch Kindergarten Ventures through their website at kindergarten.vc. It is advisable to include a clear articulation of how the startup aligns with their mission of updating the world for the 21st century.
What makes Kindergarten Ventures different from other VCs?
Kindergarten Ventures operates as a non-professional venture capital firm, complementing institutional VCs rather than competing with them. Their unique sourcing strategy through the Acquired podcast network provides them with a competitive edge in identifying high-quality startups.
What is the geographic focus of Kindergarten Ventures?
The firm primarily invests in startups located in North America, allowing them to maintain close relationships with their portfolio companies.
What is the typical follow-on investment behavior?
Kindergarten Ventures has demonstrated a willingness to lead larger SPVs for follow-on investments, as evidenced by their $12 million SPV for Vanta's Series B secondary close.
How involved is Kindergarten Ventures post-investment?
While specific details on post-investment involvement are not disclosed, the firm’s relationship-driven approach suggests they maintain active engagement with their portfolio companies through their network.
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