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Lerer Hippeau is a venture capital firm founded in 2010 by Ken Lerer and Eric Hippeau, headquartered in New York City. The firm specializes in early-stage investments, particularly in the pre-seed and seed stages, and has established itself as a key player in the New York startup ecosystem. Lerer Hippeau has raised a total of approximately $1.4 billion across nine funds, with the latest, LH Fund IX, closing at $200 million in April 2025. This fund was oversubscribed, reflecting the firm's strong reputation and investor confidence.
Over the years, Lerer Hippeau has built a diverse portfolio of 138 active companies, with a total of over 400 investments since inception. The firm is known for its hands-on approach, providing strategic guidance and resources to help founders navigate the challenges of early-stage growth. Their office in New York City positions them at the heart of a vibrant startup community, allowing them to leverage local insights and connections.
Lerer Hippeau invests across a variety of sectors, including consumer technology, healthcare, fintech, and logistics. The firm primarily targets early-stage investments, specifically in the pre-seed and seed rounds, with check sizes typically ranging from $1 million to $3 million. Their investment strategy is generalist, allowing them to identify promising opportunities across different industries.
The firm emphasizes backing exceptional founders who are innovating in rapidly changing industries, particularly in New York City. Lerer Hippeau believes that NYC will produce generationally important businesses, and they focus on supporting entrepreneurs who are addressing significant market needs. Their investment thesis is centered around the conviction that the right people can drive impactful change in their respective sectors.
Lerer Hippeau's portfolio includes notable companies that have achieved significant milestones:
Ben Lerer - Managing Partner. Ben has a background in media and technology, previously co-founding Thrillist and serving as CEO. He brings extensive experience in scaling startups and has led numerous successful investments.
Eric Hippeau - Co-founder and Managing Partner. Eric has a rich history in venture capital and media, having served as CEO of The Huffington Post. His expertise lies in identifying and nurturing innovative companies.
Graham Brown - Managing Partner. Graham has a strong background in technology and venture capital, focusing on early-stage investments across various sectors.
Andrea Hippeau - Partner. Andrea, daughter of Eric Hippeau, has experience in venture capital and entrepreneurship, contributing to the firm's investment strategy.
Isabelle Phelps - Partner. Isabelle has a background in finance and venture capital, focusing on supporting portfolio companies in their growth phases.
Joe Medved - Partner, Fund Strategy. Joe specializes in fund strategy and operations, ensuring the firm's investments align with its overall goals.
Dan Rochkind - CFO. Dan oversees the financial operations of the firm, managing fund performance and investor relations.
Emily Libresco - Head of Marketing & Communications. Emily is responsible for the firm's branding and communication strategies, enhancing Lerer Hippeau's visibility in the startup community.
Brigitte Bonebrake - Assistant Controller. Brigitte supports the financial management of the firm, ensuring compliance and operational efficiency.
Madeleine Goldberg - Investor. Madeleine focuses on sourcing and evaluating new investment opportunities within the firm's target sectors.
Max Wechter - Director of Strategy. Max plays a key role in shaping the firm's strategic direction and investment approach.
To pitch Lerer Hippeau, founders should submit their proposals through the firm's website. It is advisable to include a comprehensive pitch deck that outlines the business model, market opportunity, and team background. While the firm does not specify a response time, they are known for being engaged and responsive to potential investments.
Warm introductions can be beneficial, as they may increase the likelihood of a favorable review. Founders should ensure their pitch is concise and highlights the unique aspects of their startup.
In April 2025, Lerer Hippeau announced the closing of LH Fund IX, raising $200 million, which was oversubscribed. This fund marks a significant increase from Fund VIII's $140 million.
Throughout 2025, Lerer Hippeau has made 19 investments, demonstrating an active deployment pace across various sectors, including enterprise and consumer categories.
Notable portfolio companies include Warby Parker, Casper, Allbirds, Sweetgreen, and MIRROR, all of which have achieved significant exits, including IPOs and acquisitions.
What are Lerer Hippeau's investment criteria?
Lerer Hippeau focuses on early-stage investments, specifically in the pre-seed and seed stages. They look for exceptional founders who are innovating in rapidly changing industries, particularly in New York City.
How can I pitch to Lerer Hippeau?
Founders can pitch Lerer Hippeau through their website. It is recommended to include a clear business model, market opportunity, and team background in the pitch deck.
What makes Lerer Hippeau different from other VC firms?
The firm has a hands-on approach to supporting founders, providing strategic guidance and access to a vast network of industry contacts. Their focus on NYC's startup ecosystem also sets them apart.
What is the typical check size for investments?
Lerer Hippeau typically invests between $1 million and $3 million in early-stage rounds. They may participate in larger rounds depending on the opportunity.
What sectors does Lerer Hippeau invest in?
The firm invests in a diverse range of sectors, including consumer technology, healthcare, fintech, and logistics. Their generalist approach allows them to explore various industries.
What is Lerer Hippeau's post-investment involvement?
Lerer Hippeau actively supports its portfolio companies through strategic guidance, operational support, and access to their extensive network. They are committed to helping founders navigate the challenges of early-stage growth.
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