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Mana Ventures is a venture capital firm founded in 2017 and based in South San Francisco, California. The firm specializes in investing in technologies that aim to redefine industries, particularly in deep technology and artificial intelligence. Since its inception, Mana Ventures has made over 300 investments across various sectors, including robotics, autonomy, biotech, health tech, SaaS, and blockchain.
With a strong community presence, Mana Ventures boasts a network of over 7,000 limited partners. The firm has built a reputation as one of AngelList's most active syndicates, with a portfolio that includes 200 companies. Notable milestones include significant investments in companies like Unity Technologies, SpaceX, and Canva, showcasing their commitment to supporting innovative startups.
Mana Ventures primarily invests in early-stage startups, focusing on Seed, Seed+, and Series A funding rounds. Their investment strategy emphasizes deep tech and AI sectors, including robotics, autonomy, biotech, health tech, SaaS, proptech, gaming, and consumer technology. The firm seeks to back startups that have demonstrated product-market fit and traction, typically with annual revenues between $250,000 and $1 million.
Mana Ventures does not lead funding rounds but prefers to participate alongside quality lead investors or angels. They provide both financial investment and strategic support, helping startups scale effectively. Their approach includes guidance in business development and assistance in preparing for funding rounds, ensuring that portfolio companies are well-positioned for growth.
Mana Ventures has invested in a diverse range of companies, with notable portfolio highlights including:
Morgan Schwanke: General Partner & Founder. Morgan has a background as a former founder and angel investor, with over 300 startup investments to his name. He is known for his expertise in deep tech and AI.
Jack Brody: Advisor & Founder. Jack has a background in product management and provides strategic insights to portfolio companies.
To pitch to Mana Ventures, founders should reach out via email at morgan@manaventures.vc. It is recommended to include a detailed pitch deck that outlines the business model, market opportunity, and traction. While there is no formal application portal, a well-structured email can facilitate the initial connection. Response times may vary, but founders can expect to hear back within a few weeks.
Mana Ventures operates a Scout Program that allows individuals to refer startups for potential investment. Scouts can earn a carried interest of 20% to 50% on successful investments made through their referrals. This program encourages community involvement and expands the firm's reach in identifying promising startups.
In recent months, Mana Ventures has continued to support its portfolio companies actively. Notable activities include assisting Mage and JuneShine in preparing for funding rounds and facilitating strategic introductions. The firm remains committed to helping startups achieve growth and product-market fit.
What are Mana Ventures' investment criteria?
Mana Ventures focuses on early-stage investments in deep tech and AI sectors, particularly in Seed, Seed+, and Series A rounds. They look for startups that have demonstrated product-market fit and traction, typically with annual revenues between $250,000 and $1 million.
How can I apply or pitch to Mana Ventures?
Interested parties can pitch to Mana Ventures by emailing morgan@manaventures.vc. They encourage startups to provide detailed information about their business model, traction, and how they align with Mana Ventures' investment focus.
What makes Mana Ventures different from other investors?
Mana Ventures combines funding with strategic support, offering guidance in business development and assistance in preparing for funding rounds. Their extensive network of over 7,000 limited partners provides additional resources for portfolio companies.
What is Mana Ventures' geographic scope?
Mana Ventures is based in South San Francisco, California, and primarily invests in startups located in the United States, particularly those focused on deep tech and AI.
What is the typical check size for investments?
While specific check sizes are not disclosed, Mana Ventures typically participates in early-stage funding rounds, which can range from hundreds of thousands to several million dollars, depending on the startup's needs and stage.
What is Mana Ventures' post-investment involvement like?
Mana Ventures actively supports its portfolio companies through strategic introductions, guidance in business development, and assistance in preparing for future funding rounds. Their involvement helps startups achieve product-market fit and scale effectively.
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