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KohFounders is a boutique formation-stage venture capital firm founded by Bong Koh and Doh Koh. Established with the belief that great ideas can emerge from anywhere, the firm focuses on supporting entrepreneurs in launching and building innovative companies. KohFounders primarily targets mission-driven founders in emerging ecosystems, particularly outside traditional tech hubs like the Bay Area. The firm operates with a team of seven members, including investment and technology partners, as well as advisors specializing in various fields.
Currently, KohFounders has invested in over 100 companies, showcasing its commitment to early-stage investments. The firm emphasizes the importance of social impact alongside financial returns, reflecting its dedication to supporting entrepreneurs who are making a difference in their communities. KohFounders has established a notable presence in cities such as Los Angeles, Seattle, Minneapolis, Durham, Chicago, Pittsburgh, Washington D.C., Nashville, New York, Philadelphia, and Boston, where it collaborates with founders to bring innovative ideas to life.
KohFounders invests in early-stage companies across a diverse range of sectors, including healthcare technology, education technology, climate technology, agricultural technology, financial technology, property technology, and frontier technology. The firm specifically targets pre-seed, seed, and seed-plus stages, providing pre-institutional capital to entrepreneurs at the formation stage. KohFounders seeks to partner with mission-driven founders who possess deep domain expertise and are committed to building impactful companies.
The firm emphasizes its focus on emerging ecosystems, having worked with founders in various cities across North America. KohFounders believes that the next wave of truly great companies will be built everywhere, not just in traditional tech hubs. This philosophy drives their investment strategy, as they aim to support innovative ideas from locations that may not typically receive venture capital attention.
KohFounders has co-founded and invested in over 100 companies, with a notable portfolio that includes:
In addition to these active investments, KohFounders has achieved notable exits with companies such as Billie, GiftHealth, Artemis, Batch Notes, and Freshtemp. The firm’s portfolio reflects its commitment to supporting a diverse range of sectors and innovative solutions.
Bong Koh - Investment Partner. Bong has extensive experience in venture capital and has led numerous successful investments in early-stage companies.
Doh Koh - Technology Partner. Doh brings a strong background in technology and product development, having worked with various startups in the tech sector.
James Smits - Venture Partner. James has a track record of identifying promising startups and guiding them through the early stages of growth.
Swati Doshi - Talent and HR Advisor. Swati specializes in talent management and has helped numerous startups build effective teams.
Justin Labaw-Rivers - Design Advisor. Justin has a background in design and product strategy, providing valuable insights to portfolio companies.
John Ryu - Product Advisor. John offers expertise in product development and market fit, assisting founders in refining their offerings.
Peter Brack - Coaching Advisor. Peter provides coaching and mentorship to founders, helping them navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship.
Seung Bak - Advisor. Seung brings a wealth of experience in various sectors, offering strategic guidance to portfolio companies.
Founders interested in pitching to KohFounders should submit their applications through the firm's website. The pitch deck should include a clear overview of the business model, market opportunity, and team qualifications. KohFounders values concise and compelling presentations that highlight the mission-driven nature of the startup.
Response times may vary, but founders can expect to hear back within a few weeks. Warm introductions are preferred, but not mandatory.
In recent months, KohFounders has continued to expand its portfolio, investing in several innovative startups across various sectors. Notable investments include companies in healthcare technology and climate technology, reflecting the firm's commitment to supporting mission-driven entrepreneurs.
The firm has also achieved significant exits, including successful outcomes for companies like Billie and GiftHealth, which have demonstrated the potential for high returns on investment. KohFounders remains active in the venture capital space, seeking new opportunities to partner with emerging founders.
What are KohFounders' investment criteria?
KohFounders focuses on early-stage companies in sectors such as healthcare, edtech, climate technology, and more. They specifically target mission-driven founders with deep domain expertise.
How can founders apply or pitch to KohFounders?
Founders can apply through the KohFounders website. They encourage interested entrepreneurs to submit their pitches online.
What makes KohFounders different from other venture capital firms?
KohFounders emphasizes investing in emerging ecosystems outside traditional tech hubs, providing pre-institutional capital and mentorship to mission-driven founders.
What is the geographic scope of KohFounders' investments?
The firm invests primarily in North America, focusing on cities like Los Angeles, Seattle, Minneapolis, and others that are not traditional tech centers.
What is the typical check size for investments?
KohFounders invests at the pre-seed, seed, and seed-plus stages, with check sizes tailored to the needs of the companies they support.
What kind of post-investment involvement does KohFounders have?
KohFounders provides mentorship, access to a network of advisors, and operational support to help portfolio companies navigate challenges and accelerate growth.
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