Discover if this is a suitable investor for your startup. If they are we'll make a warm introduction for free. Otherwise, we'll connect you with matching investors.
Knockout Capital is a venture capital firm based in Los Angeles, California, founded in 2019 by Kiyoko Osone. The firm operates as a limited partner (LP), focusing on investing in general partners who are building consumer companies that define culture. Knockout Capital identifies and supports founders before they reach mainstream recognition, aiming to influence consumer behavior through strategic investments.
As of now, Knockout Capital has a portfolio of 11 companies and targets over 100 investments annually through crowdfunding and co-investments. The firm directly funds three startups each year, emphasizing its commitment to early-stage investments. Knockout Capital's office is located at 10880 Wilshire Blvd. Suite 1101, Los Angeles, CA 90024. The firm has established a reputation for backing innovative consumer brands and breakthrough technologies that shape how people live.
Knockout Capital's approach is characterized by its focus on culture-defining brands and its ability to identify market inflection points. The firm leverages its network and expertise in consumer behavior and market trends to add value to its portfolio companies, ensuring they are well-positioned for success as they approach mainstream recognition.
Knockout Capital invests in general partners with deep domain expertise who are capable of sourcing and scaling products that influence consumer behavior. The firm is particularly interested in backing GPs who act with conviction prior to market inflection points. Their investment strategy encompasses various sectors, including consumer, healthcare, biotech, AI, and fintech.
The firm typically engages in seed, Series A, and Series B funding stages, focusing primarily on the United States market. While specific check sizes are not disclosed, third-party sources suggest that they may range from $2 million to $10 million. Knockout Capital emphasizes the importance of investing in culture-defining brands and breakthrough technologies that can significantly impact consumer lifestyles.
Knockout Capital seeks to partner with founders who demonstrate a strong vision and the ability to navigate market challenges. The firm values deep domain expertise and a proactive approach to scaling businesses, which aligns with its mission to influence consumer behavior through strategic investments.
Knockout Capital's portfolio includes a diverse range of companies that exemplify its focus on culture-defining brands and innovative technologies. Notable portfolio companies include:
This diverse portfolio reflects Knockout Capital's commitment to investing in companies that not only have strong growth potential but also align with its mission to influence consumer behavior.
Kiyoko Osone: Founder and Chief Investment Officer of Knockout Capital. Kiyoko has a background in venture capital and investment management, with a focus on consumer brands and breakthrough technologies. She has led numerous investments in culture-defining companies and is known for her expertise in identifying market trends.
Heidi Guo, MBA: An employee at Knockout Capital, Heidi's role and investment authority were not fully detailed in the source material. However, her background suggests a strong understanding of the venture capital landscape and consumer markets.
While additional team members were not specified, Knockout Capital's approach emphasizes collaboration and leveraging the expertise of its network to support portfolio companies effectively.
To pitch Knockout Capital, founders should send their pitch deck along with a mission statement to ko@knockout.capital. The firm prefers concise and well-structured presentations that clearly outline the business model, market opportunity, and team qualifications.
Including relevant data and metrics that demonstrate traction and growth potential is crucial. Founders should also highlight any unique aspects of their product or service that differentiate them from competitors.
Response times may vary, but founders can expect to hear back within a few weeks. Warm introductions are encouraged, as they can facilitate a more favorable review process.
In recent months, Knockout Capital has maintained an active presence in the venture capital space. The firm has targeted over 100 investments annually through crowdfunding and co-investments, alongside funding three startups directly each year.
Knockout Capital has also been publishing insights on industry trends through its blog, covering topics such as product testing and innovative consumer products. This content reflects the firm's commitment to staying informed about the financial landscape and consumer behavior.
Notable portfolio companies like Brex, SpaceX, and Public Goods continue to gain traction, showcasing the effectiveness of Knockout Capital's investment strategy in identifying high-potential startups.
What are Knockout Capital's investment criteria?
Knockout Capital focuses on investing in general partners with deep domain expertise who can source and scale culture-defining consumer companies. The firm is particularly interested in sectors such as consumer, healthcare, biotech, AI, and fintech.
How can I apply or pitch to Knockout Capital?
Founders interested in pitching to Knockout Capital should send their pitch deck along with a mission statement to ko@knockout.capital for review. The firm encourages submissions that align with its investment thesis.
What makes Knockout Capital different from other VCs?
Knockout Capital operates as a limited partner, backing general partners rather than leading rounds themselves. This approach allows them to identify and support founders before they reach mainstream recognition, focusing on culture-defining brands and breakthrough technologies.
What is the geographic scope of Knockout Capital's investments?
The firm primarily invests in the United States, although it has shown interest in opportunities that may arise in other markets as well.
What is the typical check size for investments?
While specific check sizes are not disclosed, third-party sources suggest that Knockout Capital's investments may range from $2 million to $10 million, depending on the opportunity and the general partner involved.
What kind of post-investment involvement does Knockout Capital have?
Knockout Capital adds value to its portfolio companies by leveraging its network and expertise in consumer behavior and market trends. The firm supports general partners in scaling their businesses and navigating market challenges.
All trademarks, logos and brand names are the property of their respective owners. All company, product and service names used in this website are for identification purposes only. Use of these names, trademarks, and brands does not imply endorsement.