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Moonshots Capital is an early-stage venture capital firm founded in 2004 by military veterans and serial entrepreneurs. The firm is headquartered in Austin, Texas, and has a total fund size of $20 million. Moonshots Capital focuses on investing in seed-stage technology companies, particularly those led by exceptional teams with military backgrounds. The firm has built a portfolio of 40 companies, leveraging military leadership skills and entrepreneurial experience to support founders in building impactful businesses.
Over the years, Moonshots Capital has established a strong reputation for its unique approach to investing, emphasizing sectors where military experience provides a competitive advantage. Notable milestones include backing companies like SpaceX and ID.me, both of which have achieved unicorn status. The firm maintains a broad network in both government and the private sector, which enhances its ability to assist portfolio companies in navigating challenges and scaling effectively.
Moonshots Capital invests primarily in seed-stage companies that have a product or minimum viable product (MVP) with demonstrated customer traction. The firm emphasizes sectors such as defense, dual-use technology, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity. They seek companies that generate monthly recurring revenue of at least $100,000 and have previously raised a minimum of $500,000 in capital. Investment check sizes typically range from $500,000 to $2 million, with a sweet spot around $1 million.
The firm is particularly interested in exceptional teams, especially those with military backgrounds, as they believe these individuals bring unique insights and leadership skills to their ventures. Moonshots Capital's investment strategy is designed to support companies that align with their expertise in technology and defense, ensuring that they can provide significant value to their portfolio companies.
Moonshots Capital has built a diverse portfolio of 40 companies across various sectors. Notable portfolio companies include:
Additionally, the firm has achieved notable exits with companies like SpaceX and ID.me, showcasing its ability to identify and support high-potential startups.
Kelly Perdew: Co-Founder & Managing General Partner. Kelly is a West Point graduate and former Army intelligence officer. He gained fame as the winner of The Apprentice Season 2 and has a personal track record of 114 investments, 27 exits, and 12 unicorns.
Craig Cummings: Co-Founder & General Partner. Craig is also a West Point graduate and has experience as an Army intelligence officer. He has been instrumental in building the firm's reputation and network within the defense and technology sectors.
Farah Daou: Principal. Farah brings expertise in venture capital and has a strong background in supporting early-stage technology companies.
Mike Bryan: VP of Finance and Operations. Mike oversees the financial operations of the firm, ensuring efficient management of funds and investments.
Maria Tangarova: Head of Platform & Content. Maria is responsible for developing resources and content that support portfolio companies and enhance their growth.
Claire Cocking: Investor Relations & Communications Associate. Claire manages communications and relationships with investors and stakeholders.
Startups interested in pitching to Moonshots Capital should submit their information through the firm's website. It is recommended to include a clear overview of the business model, market opportunity, and team background in the pitch deck. The firm prefers companies with an MVP and prior funding of at least $300,000. Response times may vary, but founders should expect a thorough review process given the firm's focus on exceptional teams and technology.
In recent months, Moonshots Capital has actively deployed over $65 million across more than 40 companies through syndicate vehicles and its inaugural $20 million seed fund. The firm has a strong focus on investing in veteran-founded startups, with approximately 70% of its capital allocated to these companies. Notable portfolio companies include SpaceX and ID.me, both of which have achieved unicorn status.
Moonshots Capital continues to expand its influence in the early-stage technology sector, leveraging its unique background in military leadership and entrepreneurship to support founders. The firm is recognized for its commitment to backing exceptional teams, particularly those with military experience, in sectors such as defense, AI, and cybersecurity.
What are Moonshots Capital's investment criteria?
Moonshots Capital invests in seed-stage companies with a product or minimum viable product (MVP) that has demonstrated customer traction. They look for companies generating monthly recurring revenue of at least $100,000 and that have previously raised a minimum of $500,000 in capital.
How can startups apply or pitch to Moonshots Capital?
Startups can submit their information for investment consideration through the Moonshots Capital website. They prefer companies with an MVP and prior funding of at least $300,000.
What makes Moonshots Capital different from other venture firms?
The firm is led by military veterans and serial entrepreneurs, providing a unique perspective on leadership and operational execution. Their focus on sectors where military experience provides a competitive advantage sets them apart.
What is the geographic scope of Moonshots Capital's investments?
Moonshots Capital primarily invests in companies based in the United States, focusing on sectors such as defense, AI, and cybersecurity.
What is the typical check size for investments?
Moonshots Capital typically invests between $500,000 and $2 million, with a sweet spot around $1 million.
What kind of post-investment involvement does Moonshots Capital have?
The firm adds value to portfolio companies by leveraging their military leadership skills, extensive networks, and entrepreneurial experience. They provide strategic guidance and support to help founders navigate challenges and scale their businesses effectively.
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