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LiveOak Ventures is a venture capital firm based in Austin, Texas, founded in December 2012 by Krishna Srinivasan and Venu Shamapant. The firm has established itself as a key player in the Texas startup ecosystem, focusing on early-stage investments in technology and tech-enabled service companies. Over the past decade, LiveOak has made more than 60 investments, demonstrating a strong commitment to supporting Texas-based entrepreneurs in building enduring businesses.
As of now, LiveOak Ventures manages approximately $500 million in assets under management (AUM) and has raised three funds, with the most recent, Fund III, closing at $210 million in November 2021. The firm primarily invests in the seed and Series A stages, with opportunistic investments in pre-seed and growth equity. LiveOak's mission is to foster the growth of category-dominating companies within Texas.
LiveOak Ventures operates from its office located at 805 Las Cimas Pkwy, Suite 125, Austin, TX 78746. The firm has been recognized for its contributions to the Texas entrepreneurial landscape, including being named to Inc.'s 2023 List of Founder-Friendly Investors.
LiveOak Ventures invests in early-stage companies across various stages, including Pre-seed, Seed, Series A, and Growth Equity. The firm primarily targets technology and tech-enabled service sectors, with a strong emphasis on healthcare, fintech, edtech, and artificial intelligence. Initial check sizes typically range from $500,000 to $10 million, allowing the firm to lead or co-lead investment rounds.
The firm is particularly focused on supporting Texas-based founders, aiming to develop category-leading companies within the state. LiveOak Ventures seeks entrepreneurs who demonstrate strong leadership potential and a clear vision for their businesses. The firm’s investment strategy is designed to leverage its extensive network and expertise in the Texas entrepreneurial ecosystem, providing not only capital but also strategic support to help portfolio companies succeed.
LiveOak Ventures has built a diverse portfolio of over 60 companies, showcasing its commitment to investing in innovative technology and tech-enabled service firms. Notable portfolio companies include:
Krishna Srinivasan - Co-Founder & Managing Partner. He has a background in venture capital and has invested over $150 million in Texas startups prior to founding LiveOak Ventures.
Venu Shamapant - Co-Founder & Managing Partner. He shares a similar background with Krishna, having worked at Austin Ventures and focusing on Texas-based investments.
Creighton Hicks - Partner. He brings extensive experience in venture capital and has been involved in numerous successful investments.
Mike Marcantonio - Partner. He has a strong track record in supporting early-stage companies and driving growth.
Paola Retes - Vice President. She plays a key role in deal sourcing and portfolio management.
Kathryn Moore - Senior Associate. She assists in evaluating investment opportunities and supporting portfolio companies.
David Stewart - Venture Partner. He provides strategic insights and guidance to portfolio companies.
Julianna Giraldo - Marketing. She manages marketing initiatives and communications for the firm.
Lauranne Jarrett - Finance. She oversees financial operations and reporting.
Wafae Owen - Office Manager. She ensures smooth operations within the firm.
Ben Scott - Partner Emeritus. He has a long history in venture capital and continues to provide insights to the firm.
To pitch LiveOak Ventures, founders should submit their proposals through the firm's website at this link. The pitch deck should include a clear overview of the business model, market opportunity, competitive landscape, and team background. LiveOak Ventures prefers concise and well-structured presentations that clearly convey the startup's potential.
Response times can vary, but founders can generally expect feedback within a few weeks. Warm introductions are encouraged, as they can facilitate a more favorable review process.
LiveOak Ventures runs several initiatives aimed at community engagement and support for Texas entrepreneurs. One notable program is LiveOak Gives, which focuses on philanthropy and community involvement, supporting non-profit organizations across Texas.
The firm also hosts events such as the Austin Startup Bash, a networking event for startups, and the CEO Summit, where industry leaders discuss trends and challenges. Participation in panels at the South by Southwest festival further showcases LiveOak's commitment to the Texas startup community.
In recent months, LiveOak Ventures has been active in expanding its portfolio and supporting its companies. Notably, the firm announced the addition of UPTIQ to its portfolio, which recently raised $25 million in a Series B funding round. Additionally, LiveOak Ventures reported a $10 million growth round for MedScout, further solidifying its commitment to healthcare technology.
LiveOak Ventures was recognized with the A-LIST Awards 2025 by Opportunity Austin, highlighting its contributions to the Texas startup ecosystem. The firm continues to engage with the community through various events, including the Austin Startup Bash and CEO Summit, fostering connections among Texas founders.
What are LiveOak Ventures' investment criteria?
LiveOak Ventures primarily invests in early-stage technology and tech-enabled service companies led by Texas-based founders. The firm focuses on sectors such as healthcare, fintech, edtech, and AI, with check sizes ranging from $500,000 to $10 million.
How can I apply or pitch to LiveOak Ventures?
Founders can submit their pitch through the LiveOak Ventures website at this link. It is recommended to include a clear business plan, market analysis, and details about the founding team in the pitch deck.
What makes LiveOak Ventures different from other investors?
LiveOak Ventures is uniquely focused on Texas-based entrepreneurs, providing not only capital but also strategic support through its extensive network within the Texas startup ecosystem. The firm aims to develop category-dominating companies in the region.
What is the geographic scope of LiveOak Ventures?
The firm exclusively invests in companies based in Texas, targeting major tech hubs such as Austin, Houston, Dallas, and San Antonio.
What is LiveOak Ventures' post-investment involvement like?
LiveOak Ventures actively engages with its portfolio companies, offering mentorship, operational support, and access to its network to help founders navigate challenges and scale their businesses effectively.
What is the size of LiveOak Ventures' funds?
LiveOak Ventures has raised three funds to date, with the most recent, Fund III, closing at $210 million in November 2021. The firm manages approximately $500 million in total assets under management.
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