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KittyHawk is a venture capital firm founded in 2015 by Will Weisman, located at the NASA Ames Research Park in Silicon Valley. The firm focuses on investing across the innovation lifecycle, from early-stage frontier companies to structured exposure in private markets. KittyHawk's name pays homage to the Wright Brothers' launch site, reflecting its commitment to moonshot technologies.
The firm operates with a dual strategy that includes seed stage investments in groundbreaking technologies and a vintage-based private market secondaries strategy developed in partnership with Nasdaq. This approach allows KittyHawk to provide systematic exposure to leading late-stage private companies while supporting mission-driven entrepreneurs.
As of now, KittyHawk has made 27 investments and has achieved notable exits, including one IPO and three acquisitions. The firm continues to expand its portfolio and influence in the venture capital space.
KittyHawk invests in a diverse range of sectors, including healthcare, biotechnology, longevity, robotics, advanced materials, Web3, artificial intelligence, quantum energy, and aerospace. The firm primarily targets seed, Series A, Series B, and growth equity stages, with check sizes ranging from $250,000 to $15 million, typically favoring investments around $2 million.
The firm employs two main investment strategies: first, seed stage investments in frontier technology, which focus on early-stage companies that demonstrate potential for significant impact; second, a vintage-based private market secondaries strategy that provides liquidity solutions and pre-IPO access to late-stage private companies. This dual approach allows KittyHawk to support a wide array of innovative startups while also facilitating structured exits for its portfolio.
KittyHawk has made 27 investments to date, showcasing a commitment to diverse sectors and innovative technologies. Notable portfolio companies include:
The firm has achieved significant exits, including one IPO and three acquisitions, demonstrating its ability to identify and nurture high-potential companies. KittyHawk's portfolio reflects its focus on mission-driven entrepreneurs and technologies capable of creating substantial economic value and positive global impact.
Will Weisman - Founder & Managing Partner; previously associated with Singularity University, he leads the firm with a focus on frontier technologies.
Paul Burgon - Partner; joined from Exit Ventures, he has over 30 years of investment and operational leadership experience, having led nearly 100 M&A and CVC investments worth over $3 billion.
English Sall - Venture Partner; brings expertise in technology investments and strategic growth.
Michael Going - Venture Partner; focuses on identifying high-potential startups in emerging sectors.
William Callanan - Advisory Partner; provides strategic insights and guidance to portfolio companies.
Jack Dreyer - Principal; involved in deal sourcing and portfolio management.
Alexandra Peterson - Partner; focuses on investment strategy and portfolio development.
Charles Stucke - Venture Partner; specializes in technology and innovation investments.
Nico Bossi - Venture Partner; brings experience in scaling startups.
Nick White - Venture Partner; focuses on market analysis and investment opportunities.
John Pearce - Chief Operating Officer; oversees operational aspects of the firm.
Lincoln S. Ellis - Venture Partner; involved in strategic investment decisions.
Adam Levinson - Advisory Partner; provides insights into market trends and investment strategies.
Anaika Theodore - Operations Manager; supports the firm's operational functions.
To pitch to KittyHawk, founders should use the submission form available on their website at kittyhawk.vc. The pitch deck should include a comprehensive overview of the business, market analysis, and details about the founding team. KittyHawk prefers well-structured decks that clearly outline the value proposition and growth strategy.
Response times may vary, but founders can expect to hear back within a few weeks. Warm introductions are beneficial but not mandatory.
In October 2025, KittyHawk announced the acquisition of Exit Ventures, an early-stage firm focused on energy, AI infrastructure, and sustainable materials. This acquisition brought Paul Burgon on board as a Partner, significantly enhancing KittyHawk's capabilities in energy and climate sectors.
KittyHawk continues to promote its investment strategies and sectors of focus through its website, although no recent blog posts or public activities beyond foundational information have been detected.
What are KittyHawk's investment criteria?
KittyHawk invests in frontier technologies across various sectors, including healthcare, biotech, AI, and climate tech. The firm focuses on seed to growth equity stages, looking for mission-driven entrepreneurs with innovative solutions that can create significant economic value.
How can I apply or pitch to KittyHawk?
Founders can submit their pitches through the KittyHawk website at kittyhawk.vc. It is advisable to include a detailed business plan, market analysis, and information about the founding team in the pitch deck.
What makes KittyHawk different from other venture capital firms?
KittyHawk's unique dual strategy combines early-stage investments with a vintage-based private market secondaries approach, providing both initial funding and structured exit opportunities. This partnership with Nasdaq enhances their ability to offer liquidity solutions.
What is the geographic scope of KittyHawk's investments?
KittyHawk invests globally, focusing on innovative companies that operate in frontier technology sectors. The firm seeks opportunities in various regions, aligning with its mission-driven investment philosophy.
What is KittyHawk's post-investment involvement like?
KittyHawk actively supports its portfolio companies through its extensive network and expertise in frontier technologies. The firm aims to facilitate growth and successful exits for its investments.
What is the typical check size for investments?
KittyHawk typically invests between $250,000 and $15 million, with a sweet spot around $2 million for seed and early-stage investments.
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