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Motivate Venture Capital is a venture capital firm founded in 2019 by David Wieland and Lauren DeLuca. Based in Chicago, Illinois, the firm focuses on early-stage investments, particularly in pre-seed and seed stage companies. Motivate aims to support ambitious founders by providing not only capital but also valuable experience and connections to help realize their visions.
As of now, Motivate manages a portfolio of eight companies, with a target check size ranging from $250,000 to $3 million. The firm has established itself as a key player in the early-stage investment landscape, particularly in sectors such as fintech, AI, and marketplaces. Notable milestones include the successful acquisition of Home Chef, which highlights the firm's ability to identify and support companies with significant growth potential.
Motivate Venture Capital primarily invests in the earliest stages of a company's lifecycle, targeting investments of $250,000 to $1 million in pre-seed opportunities and $1.5 million to $3 million in seed stage opportunities. The firm focuses on sectors such as fintech, enterprise software, AI/ML, and marketplaces. Motivate is particularly interested in companies that tackle significant and durable problems in large and growing markets.
The firm’s investment strategy emphasizes the importance of addressing real-world challenges through innovative solutions. Motivate seeks founders who demonstrate ambition and a clear vision for their companies. The firm prefers to engage in co-investments and values strong partnerships that can enhance the growth trajectory of its portfolio companies.
Motivate Venture Capital's portfolio includes several notable companies:
David Wieland: Founder & Managing Partner. David has extensive experience in venture capital and has led numerous successful investments in early-stage companies.
Lauren DeLuca: Founder & Managing Partner. Lauren brings a strong background in finance and entrepreneurship, having worked with various startups prior to founding Motivate.
Jackson Bubala: Principal. Jackson focuses on sourcing and evaluating new investment opportunities, leveraging his background in technology and finance.
Courtney Trunk: Senior Associate. Courtney supports the investment team in due diligence and portfolio management, with a keen interest in fintech.
Bonnie Kearns: Chief Operations Officer. Bonnie oversees the operational aspects of the firm, ensuring efficient processes and support for portfolio companies.
To pitch Motivate Venture Capital, founders should use the contact form available on their website. It is important to include a comprehensive pitch deck that outlines the business model, market opportunity, and financial projections. The firm typically responds within a few weeks, and warm introductions are preferred but not required.
In 2023, Motivate Venture Capital highlighted its portfolio company Privacy Lock on LinkedIn, showcasing its innovative approach to privacy solutions. The firm continues to focus on expanding its portfolio in the fintech and AI sectors.
Home Chef, a notable exit from Motivate's portfolio, was acquired by Kroger for approximately $700 million in 2018, demonstrating the firm's capability to identify high-potential investments.
What are Motivate Venture Capital's investment criteria?
Motivate Venture Capital invests primarily in pre-seed and seed stage companies, focusing on sectors such as fintech, AI, and marketplaces. They look for companies addressing significant and durable problems in large and growing markets.
How can I apply or pitch to Motivate Venture Capital?
Founders can pitch to Motivate Venture Capital through their contact form available on their website. It is recommended to include a detailed business plan and financial projections in the pitch deck.
What makes Motivate Venture Capital different from other firms?
Motivate Venture Capital differentiates itself by providing not just capital but also strategic guidance, industry connections, and operational support to help founders navigate the challenges of building their businesses.
What is the geographic scope of Motivate Venture Capital's investments?
The firm focuses on investments within the United States, targeting early-stage companies that are poised for growth.
What is the typical check size for investments?
Motivate Venture Capital typically invests between $250,000 and $3 million, depending on the stage of the company and the specific investment opportunity.
What kind of post-investment involvement does Motivate Venture Capital have?
Motivate Venture Capital is actively involved with its portfolio companies, providing mentorship, strategic advice, and support in operational matters to help them succeed.
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