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Launch Sister Ventures is an advisory firm based in Los Angeles, California, founded by Donna Khalife, a serial entrepreneur with 15 years of experience in the consumer technology sector. The firm specializes in partnering with investors, CEOs, founders, and boards to assist tech ventures in achieving growth and innovation across all stages of development. Khalife's background includes significant roles at Google and New Enterprise Associates (NEA), where she honed her expertise in building and advising venture-backed companies.
Alongside her sister Rosy, Khalife co-founded Surprise Ride, a company that develops and delivers activity kits for children. This venture gained notable recognition, including an appearance on Shark Tank and an acquisition by Fat Brain Toys. The founders' journey as war refugees from Lebanon, who moved to the U.S. after winning the Green Card Lottery, adds a compelling narrative to their entrepreneurial story.
Currently, Launch Sister Ventures operates without a specific fund size or portfolio count, focusing instead on providing strategic guidance and advisory services to tech ventures. The firm emphasizes its commitment to helping clients navigate growth challenges and innovate effectively.
Launch Sister Ventures provides advisory services tailored to tech ventures, with a strong emphasis on growth and innovation. The firm engages with clients at all stages of development, from friends and family rounds to growth equity. This broad stage focus allows them to support startups as they evolve through various phases of their lifecycle.
The primary sector of interest is consumer technology, reflecting Khalife's extensive background in the field. The firm seeks to partner with operators and founders who require strategic guidance alongside capital. Their investment thesis centers on fostering innovation and growth within the consumer space, leveraging Khalife's experience and insights gained from her previous roles and ventures.
Launch Sister Ventures has a notable exit with Surprise Ride, a company that creates and delivers activity kits for children. This venture was recognized for its innovative approach and was acquired by Fat Brain Toys after launching over 100 products. Currently, the firm does not publicly list additional portfolio companies, as its primary focus is on advisory services rather than traditional venture capital investments.
While specific current portfolio companies are not disclosed, the firm’s expertise in consumer technology positions it well to support a range of startups in this sector. The advisory nature of Launch Sister Ventures allows them to work with various companies at different stages, providing tailored support to enhance growth and innovation.
Donna Khalife - Founder and CEO. Khalife has a rich background in the consumer technology sector, having worked at Google and NEA. She co-founded Surprise Ride, which gained significant recognition and was acquired by Fat Brain Toys. Khalife holds an MBA from Harvard Business School and is a John H. McArthur Fellow.
To pitch to Launch Sister Ventures, founders should reach out via email at hello@hidonna.co. It is recommended to include a comprehensive deck that outlines the business model, market opportunity, and specific needs for advisory support. Response times may vary, so patience is advised.
As of March 2026, Launch Sister Ventures continues to operate as an advisory firm focused on consumer technology startups. The firm has not publicly announced any new investments or significant changes in leadership recently.
What are the investment criteria for Launch Sister Ventures?
Launch Sister Ventures focuses on consumer technology startups at all stages of development. They look for ventures that require strategic guidance and innovation support, particularly those led by operators and founders with a clear vision for growth.
How can I apply or pitch to Launch Sister Ventures?
Founders can pitch to Launch Sister Ventures by reaching out via email at hello@hidonna.co. It is advisable to include a detailed overview of the business, the stage of development, and specific areas where advisory support is needed.
What makes Launch Sister Ventures different from traditional venture capital firms?
Unlike traditional VC firms, Launch Sister Ventures operates primarily as an advisory entity, focusing on providing strategic guidance rather than direct capital investment. This approach allows them to partner closely with startups and help them navigate growth challenges effectively.
What is the geographic scope of Launch Sister Ventures?
The firm is based in Los Angeles, California, but its advisory services can extend to tech ventures across various locations, particularly those in the consumer technology sector.
What kind of post-investment involvement can startups expect?
Launch Sister Ventures emphasizes strategic guidance and operational support, working closely with founders and teams to address growth challenges and foster innovation. Their involvement is tailored to the specific needs of each startup.
What is the typical check size or fund size for Launch Sister Ventures?
Launch Sister Ventures does not operate with a specific fund size or typical check size, as their primary focus is on advisory services rather than direct investments.
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