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Level Up Ventures is a New York-based venture capital firm founded in 2021. The firm is dedicated to addressing the wealth gap by investing in high-growth startups, particularly those led by Black and Latino founders. Level Up Ventures operates with a mission-driven approach, providing not only capital but also strategic support and resources to enhance the success of its portfolio companies.
As of now, Level Up Ventures manages a portfolio of 20 companies and has made three investments in the last 12 months. The firm typically invests between $200,000 and $500,000, with an average check size of $300,000. Their focus is primarily on U.S.-based, for-profit startups across various sectors, including SaaS, healthcare, fintech, consumer, mobility, and logistics.
Level Up Ventures is backed by Hearst and has established itself as a key player in the venture capital space, particularly in supporting underrepresented founders. The firm is located at 300 W. 57th Street, New York, NY 10019, and is led by Managing Director Shashi Srikantan.
Level Up Ventures is a sector-agnostic, seed-stage fund that primarily invests in U.S.-based, for-profit startups. The firm has a particular interest in tech-enabled B2B software startups that drive innovation across various sectors, including Transportation & Mobility, Supply Chain & Logistics, Sports, Healthcare, FinTech, Pet Health, and Sustainability. They typically provide an average investment of $300,000 in pre-seed or seed funding, with check sizes ranging from $200,000 to $500,000.
The firm emphasizes support for diverse founders and aims to close the racial wealth gap by investing in high-growth startups led by individuals who have faced barriers to accessing capital. Level Up Ventures seeks to partner with founders who demonstrate resilience, innovation, and a clear vision for their businesses. Their investment strategy includes a focus on tech-enabled solutions that can disrupt traditional industries and create significant value.
Level Up Ventures has a diverse portfolio of 20 companies, showcasing its commitment to investing in high-growth startups. Notable portfolio companies include:
Additionally, Level Up Ventures has achieved notable exits with companies such as Options MD, a healthcare SaaS for treatment-resistant depression, and ShearShare, an on-demand salon suite marketplace.
Carlton J. Charles: Chairman of Level Up Ventures, Carlton has extensive experience in venture capital and entrepreneurship, focusing on supporting diverse founders.
Shashi Srikantan: Managing Director & Head of Level Up Ventures, Shashi leads the firm's investment strategy and has a background in technology and finance, with a focus on early-stage startups.
Iyke Iwotor: Senior Venture Analyst, Iyke specializes in evaluating investment opportunities and supporting portfolio companies with strategic insights.
Damian Murray: Venture Analyst, Damian assists in the due diligence process and works closely with founders to help them achieve their growth objectives.
Shanna Miller: Operations Coordinator, Shanna manages the firm's operations and is the primary contact for inquiries, ensuring smooth communication with founders and stakeholders.
Startups interested in pitching to Level Up Ventures should submit their applications through the firm's website. The pitch deck should include a clear overview of the business model, market opportunity, team background, and financial projections. Level Up Ventures prefers concise and well-structured presentations that highlight the startup's unique value proposition.
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.
Level Up Ventures offers the Venture Fellow Program, designed to support early-stage founders by providing mentorship and access to resources. This program aims to enhance the capabilities of founders, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds, and facilitate their growth in the startup ecosystem.
Interested candidates can apply through the Level Up Ventures website, where they can find more information about eligibility and the application process.
On November 13, 2025, Level Up Ventures made its latest investment, continuing its commitment to supporting high-growth startups led by diverse founders. In the past year, the firm has completed three investments, further expanding its portfolio of innovative companies.
Level Up Ventures has achieved notable exits with companies such as Options MD and ShearShare, demonstrating its ability to identify and support successful startups in the competitive venture capital landscape.
What are Level Up Ventures' investment criteria?
Level Up Ventures primarily invests in U.S.-based, for-profit startups, focusing on tech-enabled B2B software solutions across various sectors. They are particularly interested in companies led by Black and Latino founders.
How can startups apply or pitch to Level Up Ventures?
Startups can submit their applications through the Level Up Ventures website. Interested founders are encouraged to provide a clear overview of their business model, market opportunity, and team background.
What makes Level Up Ventures different from other VC firms?
Level Up Ventures is mission-driven, focusing on closing the racial wealth gap by investing in diverse founders. They provide not only capital but also strategic support and mentorship through programs like the Venture Fellow Program.
What is the geographic scope of Level Up Ventures?
The firm primarily invests in startups based in the United States and North America, targeting high-growth opportunities in various sectors.
What is the typical fund size and check size for investments?
Level Up Ventures typically invests between $200,000 and $500,000, with an average check size of $300,000. They focus on pre-seed and seed-stage investments.
What kind of post-investment involvement does Level Up Ventures have?
Level Up Ventures provides strategic support and resources to its portfolio companies, enhancing their chances of success. This includes mentorship and access to a network of industry experts.
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