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LiquidMetal Ventures is a micro-venture capital fund established in 2022 and headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts. The fund is dedicated to investing in early-stage startups, particularly those founded by underestimated minority groups in hard tech sectors. With a fund size capped at $10 million, LiquidMetal Ventures aims to support breakthrough technologies in life sciences, climate tech, and AI/hard tech.
The firm operates with a clear mission to back diverse founders, positioning itself within the emerging DEI-focused deep-tech VC category. As of November 2023, LiquidMetal Ventures has expanded its portfolio to include nine companies, reflecting its commitment to fostering innovation and diversity in the tech landscape. The firm is strategically located in the Boston/Cambridge area, which is known for its vibrant research and entrepreneurial ecosystem.
LiquidMetal Ventures focuses on early-stage companies, specifically targeting Seed, Angel, and Pre-Series A funding stages. The sectors of interest include life sciences, climate tech, and deep-tech startups, particularly those led by minority groups. The firm emphasizes support for researchers and innovators in their early discovery initiatives, aiming to bridge the gap between research and commercialization.
The investment strategy is centered on sourcing 'off-the-market' opportunities from young scientist-entrepreneur communities. LiquidMetal Ventures seeks to invest at the intersection of research, entrepreneurship, and resources, ensuring that it identifies and supports groundbreaking innovations that may otherwise go unnoticed. The firm’s commitment to diversity is a key differentiator, as it actively targets startups founded by underestimated minority groups.
LiquidMetal Ventures has invested in a range of notable companies, including:
As of November 2023, LiquidMetal Ventures has a total of nine portfolio companies, reflecting its commitment to supporting diverse founders in hard tech sectors.
Ji Zhao, Ph.D. - Founding & Managing Partner. Ji has a background in energy research and expertise in materials science and nanotechnology, which he leverages to source deep-tech deals.
Qiong Ye, Ph.D. - Partner. Qiong brings a strong academic background and experience in research, focusing on identifying innovative startups in the biotech sector.
Tsz Kwan Lam - Partner. Tsz has a diverse background in technology and entrepreneurship, contributing to the firm's investment strategy.
Zhu Liang - Senior Director. Zhu plays a key role in managing portfolio companies and supporting their growth initiatives.
To pitch to LiquidMetal Ventures, founders should visit their website at liquidmetalvc.com and submit their pitch deck via the contact email HR@liquidmetalvc.com. The pitch deck should include a clear overview of the business model, market analysis, and team qualifications. Founders should expect a response within a few weeks, and warm introductions are preferred but not mandatory.
As of November 2023, LiquidMetal Ventures has made notable investments in several companies, including Axoft, which raised $8 million in a seed round in October 2022. The firm continues to expand its portfolio, which now includes nine companies across various hard tech sectors.
LiquidMetal Ventures is actively seeking new investment opportunities and remains focused on its mission to support underestimated minority group founders in deep tech. The firm is positioned to capitalize on emerging trends in life sciences, climate tech, and AI.
What are LiquidMetal Ventures' investment criteria?
LiquidMetal Ventures invests in early-stage startups, particularly those founded by underestimated minority groups in hard tech sectors such as life sciences, climate tech, and AI. The firm focuses on Seed, Angel, and Pre-Series A funding stages.
How can I apply or pitch to LiquidMetal Ventures?
Founders can pitch their startups by visiting the LiquidMetal Ventures website at liquidmetalvc.com or by emailing HR@liquidmetalvc.com. It is advisable to include a detailed pitch deck that outlines the business model, market opportunity, and team background.
What makes LiquidMetal Ventures different from other VC firms?
LiquidMetal Ventures distinguishes itself by focusing on supporting underestimated minority group founders in deep tech sectors. The firm leverages connections within young scientist-entrepreneur communities to identify unique investment opportunities that may not be widely recognized.
What is the geographic scope of LiquidMetal Ventures' investments?
The firm primarily invests in North America but has portfolio companies that extend its reach to China and Canada, reflecting a broader geographic interest in hard tech innovations.
What is the typical check size for investments?
While specific check sizes are not disclosed, LiquidMetal Ventures operates with a fund size capped at $10 million, indicating that investments are likely to be in the range typical for early-stage funding, which can vary based on the startup's needs and stage.
What kind of post-investment involvement can founders expect?
LiquidMetal Ventures provides operational support and access to a network of resources that can help startups navigate their growth phases. The firm emphasizes mentorship and guidance, particularly for founders from diverse backgrounds.
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