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Launchpad Capital is a venture capital firm founded in 2020, headquartered in Oakland, California, with a presence in Vilnius, Lithuania. The firm focuses on supporting innovative teams primarily in the fintech sector, emphasizing areas such as payments, mortgage technology, and blockchain. With a fund size of approximately $35 million, Launchpad Capital has established itself as a key player in early-stage investments.
The firm has a team of around six professionals, including four partners, who bring extensive experience in financial services and technology. Launchpad Capital has invested in approximately 39 companies, showcasing its commitment to backing bold entrepreneurs. Notable milestones include partnerships with community banks to enhance fintech distribution and the launch of a joint venture with Castle Creek Capital aimed at bridging fintechs and community banks.
Launchpad Capital primarily invests in early-stage fintech companies, focusing on sectors such as credit, payments, crypto/blockchain, mortgage technology, and insurance. The firm provides funding at the pre-seed and seed stages, with check sizes ranging from $500,000 to $2 million. In addition to traditional seed funding, Launchpad Capital offers incubation and follow-on financing to support the growth of its portfolio companies.
The firm also explores cross-sector opportunities through SPACs, particularly in financial services, sports, and hospitality. Their investment thesis emphasizes backing bold teams and leveraging community bank partnerships to enhance distribution capabilities within the fintech sector. This strategic approach allows Launchpad Capital to support entrepreneurs from initial development through to scaling operations.
Launchpad Capital has invested in a diverse portfolio of approximately 39 companies, including notable names such as:
Launchpad Capital's portfolio includes two unicorns and notable exits such as Consensys, INAI, and Extend. These investments reflect the firm's commitment to identifying and supporting high-potential fintech startups.
Ryan Gilbert – Founder & Managing Partner. Ryan has over 25 years of experience in global financial services and technology. He previously worked with Propel Venture Partners and True Ventures, focusing on fintech investments. Ryan is also a public speaker at industry events such as Fintech Meetup.
Andrew Drake – Venture Partner. Andrew brings a wealth of experience in venture capital and has been involved in various successful investments across the fintech sector.
To pitch Launchpad Capital, founders should submit their proposals through the firm's website at launchpad.vc. It is important to include a comprehensive pitch deck that outlines the business model, market opportunity, and team qualifications. The firm prefers well-structured decks that clearly convey the startup's vision and potential for growth.
Response times may vary, but founders can expect to hear back within a few weeks. Warm introductions are beneficial but not mandatory for submission.
In November 2025, Launchpad Capital announced a partnership with Streetlight Ventures to create a Restaurant & Hospitality-Focused SPAC. This initiative aims to explore investment opportunities within the hospitality sector.
In January 2026, Launchpad Capital led a $6 million seed round for MIC Global, further solidifying its presence in the fintech investment space.
What are Launchpad Capital's investment criteria?
Launchpad Capital focuses on early-stage fintech companies, particularly in sectors like credit, payments, and blockchain. They typically invest at the pre-seed and seed stages, with check sizes ranging from $500,000 to $2 million.
How can founders pitch to Launchpad Capital?
Founders can pitch their startups through the firm's website at launchpad.vc. It is recommended to include a clear business model, market opportunity, and team background in the pitch deck.
What makes Launchpad Capital different from other investors?
Launchpad Capital combines capital investment with strategic support, leveraging partnerships with community banks to enhance distribution for fintech startups. Their focus on early-stage companies allows them to provide tailored guidance throughout the growth process.
What is the geographic focus of Launchpad Capital?
The firm primarily invests in North America and Europe, targeting innovative fintech companies in these regions.
What is the typical post-investment involvement of Launchpad Capital?
Launchpad Capital actively supports its portfolio companies through strategic guidance, follow-on financing, and leveraging its network to facilitate growth opportunities.
What is the fund size of Launchpad Capital?
Launchpad Capital's first fund is approximately $35 million, focusing on pre-seed and seed investments in fintech.
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