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Mantis Venture Capital, founded in 2019, is a Los Angeles-based venture capital firm established by Alex Pall and Drew Taggart, known as The Chainsmokers, alongside seasoned venture capitalists Milan Koch and Jeffrey Evans. The firm has evolved from its initial focus on celebrity-led consumer investments to a specialization in deep-tech and enterprise software, reflecting a strategic shift in its investment philosophy.
As of 2023, Mantis VC manages a total of $225 million across three funds, with the latest fund, Fund III, closing at $100 million in July 2025. The firm has made 157 investments to date, demonstrating its active role in the venture capital landscape. Mantis VC's unique positioning allows it to leverage the extensive networks of its founders to provide portfolio companies with valuable introductions and support.
Headquartered in Los Angeles, Mantis VC has established itself as a significant player in the global venture capital scene, focusing on technology-enabled startups across various sectors, including AI, fintech, SaaS, and cybersecurity. The firm’s commitment to supporting founders throughout their journey is evident in its hands-on approach and strategic partnerships.
Mantis VC primarily invests in seed and Series A rounds, targeting technology-enabled startups that demonstrate potential for significant growth. The firm emphasizes sectors such as artificial intelligence, fintech, SaaS, and cybersecurity, with a particular focus on deeply technical enterprise software solutions. Mantis VC's investment strategy is characterized by its use of social capital to enhance go-to-market strategies, which includes branding, storytelling, and facilitating introductions to potential customers and candidates.
The firm seeks founders who are not only innovative but also possess a strong vision for their companies. Mantis VC values the ability of founders to leverage their networks and relationships to drive growth. The firm is U.S.-centric, with a strong emphasis on building relationships across various sectors, including tech, media, entertainment, and finance. This approach allows Mantis VC to provide its portfolio companies with unique advantages in customer acquisition and market penetration.
Mantis VC boasts a diverse portfolio of 157 companies, showcasing its commitment to investing in innovative technology-driven startups. Notable portfolio companies include:
Among its notable exits, Mantis VC has achieved success with Chainguard, a software supply-chain security company that has reached unicorn status. This diverse portfolio reflects Mantis VC's strategic focus on technology-enabled startups across various sectors.
Alex Pall - Co-founder and General Partner. Pall is also known as one half of The Chainsmokers, bringing a unique perspective from the entertainment industry to venture capital.
Drew Taggart - Co-founder and General Partner. Like Pall, Taggart is a member of The Chainsmokers and contributes to Mantis VC with his extensive network and insights into consumer behavior.
Milan Koch - General Partner. Koch is an experienced venture capitalist and entrepreneur, providing valuable expertise in evaluating and supporting technology startups.
Jeffrey Evans - General Partner. Evans has a strong background in venture capital and entrepreneurship, contributing to Mantis VC's strategic direction and investment decisions.
Josh Klein - Partner. Klein brings experience in technology and venture capital, focusing on identifying promising startups for investment.
Mac Clark - Partner. Clark has a background in venture capital and works closely with portfolio companies to drive growth.
Adam Alpert - Investor & Head of Platform. Alpert plays a key role in supporting portfolio companies and enhancing their market strategies.
Stephen O'Brien - Principal Investor. O'Brien focuses on sourcing and evaluating investment opportunities within the firm's target sectors.
Saveena Mandadi - Principal Investor. Mandadi contributes to the investment process and supports portfolio companies in their growth efforts.
Gaurav Bhogale - Investment Associate. Bhogale assists in deal sourcing and due diligence for potential investments.
Caroline Menkes - Chief of Staff to Managing Partner & Operations Associate. Menkes supports the firm's operations and strategic initiatives.
Malisa Gandevani - Team Member. Gandevani contributes to various aspects of the firm's operations and investment processes.
To pitch Mantis VC, founders should utilize the contact form available on their website at mantisvc.com/contact or send an email to contact@mantisvc.com. It is advisable to include a detailed pitch deck that outlines the business model, market opportunity, competitive landscape, and team background. Mantis VC appreciates clear and concise presentations that highlight the startup's potential for growth.
Response times may vary, but founders can expect to hear back within a few weeks. Warm introductions are preferred, as they can facilitate a more favorable review process.
In July 2025, Mantis VC closed its third fund at $100 million, marking a significant milestone in its growth trajectory. This fund represents a 25% increase from the previous fund, demonstrating the firm's expanding influence in the venture capital space.
Recently, Mantis VC has made notable investments in companies such as Chainguard, a software supply-chain security firm that has achieved unicorn status, and Rogo, an AI platform for financial services. These investments highlight Mantis VC's focus on deep-tech and enterprise solutions.
What are Mantis VC's investment criteria?
Mantis VC invests primarily in seed and Series A rounds, focusing on technology-enabled startups in sectors such as AI, fintech, SaaS, and cybersecurity. The firm looks for innovative founders with strong visions and the ability to leverage their networks for growth.
How can I pitch Mantis VC?
Founders can pitch Mantis VC through their website at mantisvc.com/contact or via email at contact@mantisvc.com. It is recommended to include a clear overview of the business model, market opportunity, and team background in the pitch.
What makes Mantis VC different from other investors?
Mantis VC combines celebrity influence with deep venture expertise, providing portfolio companies with unique access to networks and resources that can enhance go-to-market strategies. Their founders' backgrounds in entertainment and technology enable them to facilitate valuable introductions and partnerships.
What is Mantis VC's geographic focus?
The firm primarily focuses on U.S.-based startups but is open to global opportunities, particularly in technology sectors. Their Los Angeles headquarters positions them well within the tech and entertainment industries.
What is the typical check size for Mantis VC?
While specific check sizes are not disclosed, Mantis VC typically invests in early-stage rounds, which generally range from hundreds of thousands to several million dollars, depending on the startup's needs and potential.
What kind of support does Mantis VC provide post-investment?
Mantis VC actively supports its portfolio companies by leveraging its founders' networks for customer introductions, strategic partnerships, and branding efforts. The firm is committed to helping startups navigate their growth journeys.
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