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Lightshift is an early-stage venture fund based in Lisbon, Portugal, founded in 2021 by Simão Cruz, David Nogueira, and Roberto Machado. The firm aims to co-build an open, decentralized future by investing in projects that are often overlooked by traditional investors. Lightshift's unique approach emphasizes contributions beyond capital, actively participating in the development of its portfolio companies.
As a relatively new venture capital organization, Lightshift has quickly established itself within the Web3 and blockchain sectors. The firm focuses on early-stage investments, particularly in decentralized technologies, infrastructure, decentralized finance (DeFi), and decentralized biotech. Lightshift's portfolio includes 18 companies, showcasing its commitment to supporting innovative projects that contribute to a decentralized future.
Lightshift collaborates with notable partners in the Web3 movement, including Protocol Labs, Gnosis, Ethereum, and a16z. This collaboration enhances its credibility and reach within the decentralized ecosystem. The firm operates with a global geographic focus, allowing it to tap into diverse markets and innovative ideas from around the world.
Lightshift specializes in early-stage investments in decentralized technologies and projects, particularly within the Web3 and blockchain sectors. The firm targets pre-seed and seed stage companies, with check sizes ranging from $500,000 to $10 million. Lightshift's investment strategy emphasizes supporting initiatives that contribute to the development of a decentralized future, focusing on infrastructure, decentralized finance (DeFi), and decentralized biotech.
The firm actively seeks projects that align with its mission of co-building an open, decentralized future. Lightshift positions itself as a 'third co-founder,' providing not only capital but also technical expertise, network connections, and operational support to help portfolio companies grow effectively. This hands-on approach differentiates Lightshift from many traditional venture capital firms that primarily focus on financial backing.
Lightshift's investment thesis is centered around identifying and supporting potential in areas often overlooked by other investors. The firm aims to join forces with founders to build innovative solutions that leverage decentralized technologies, thereby contributing to a more open and equitable digital landscape.
Lightshift's portfolio includes a diverse range of companies focused on decentralized technologies. Notable portfolio companies include:
These companies exemplify Lightshift's commitment to supporting innovative projects that leverage decentralized technologies. The firm has made between 13 and 18 investments since its inception, indicating a proactive approach to identifying and backing promising startups in the Web3 space.
Simão Cruz - Founding Partner & CEO. Simão has a background in venture capital and technology, with a focus on decentralized projects. He is active on X under @SimaoCCruz and has a strong presence in the Web3 community.
David Nogueira - Founding Partner & CTO. David leads the technical co-building activities at Lightshift, bringing expertise in blockchain technology and decentralized systems. His background includes significant experience in tech startups and innovation.
Roberto Machado - Founding Partner. Roberto is a founding partner at Lightshift, contributing to the firm's strategic direction and investment decisions. His experience spans various sectors, with a focus on supporting early-stage ventures.
To pitch Lightshift, founders should use the contact form available on their website at this link or email build@lightshift.xyz. It is important to include a detailed overview of the project, including the problem being solved, the target market, and the team's qualifications.
While there is no specific pitch form disclosed, founders should ensure their deck highlights the unique aspects of their project and how it aligns with Lightshift's focus on decentralized technologies. Response times may vary, so founders should be prepared for a rolling application process.
In September 2025, Lightshift invested in Gyld Finance, further expanding its portfolio in the decentralized finance sector. This investment aligns with the firm's focus on supporting innovative projects that leverage blockchain technology.
In February 2025, Lightshift made an investment in Finisterra Labs, although specific details about the project have not been publicly disclosed. This investment reflects Lightshift's commitment to backing early-stage companies in the Web3 space.
Lightshift continues to actively deploy capital and support its portfolio companies, maintaining a strong presence in the decentralized technology landscape.
What are Lightshift's investment criteria?
Lightshift focuses on early-stage investments in decentralized technologies, particularly in the Web3 and blockchain sectors. They look for projects that contribute to a decentralized future, with a specific interest in infrastructure, DeFi, and decentralized biotech.
How can I pitch to Lightshift?
Founders can pitch to Lightshift via their website at this link or by emailing build@lightshift.xyz. The firm maintains an open pitch policy and accepts applications on a rolling basis.
What makes Lightshift different from other investors?
Lightshift positions itself as a 'third co-founder,' providing not just capital but also technical expertise, operational support, and network connections to help portfolio companies grow. This collaborative approach sets them apart from traditional venture capital firms.
What is the typical check size for investments?
Lightshift typically invests between $500,000 and $10 million in early-stage projects. This range allows them to support a variety of startups at different stages of development.
What geographic areas does Lightshift focus on?
Lightshift has a global geographic focus, allowing them to invest in innovative projects from around the world. Their Lisbon-based team actively seeks opportunities in diverse markets.
What is Lightshift's post-investment involvement like?
Lightshift actively participates in the development of its portfolio companies, offering technical expertise, operational support, and network connections. This hands-on involvement helps ensure the success of the startups they invest in.
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