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Venture Forward Capital, formerly known as New Leaf Ventures, is a venture capital firm founded in 2022 by a group of serial entrepreneurs with extensive experience in building and scaling businesses. The firm is headquartered in Chicago, Illinois, and focuses on providing operational expertise, networks, and hands-on support to startups, particularly in the vertical AI sector. The rebranding from New Leaf Ventures to Venture Forward Capital reflects a commitment to investing in transformative technologies that can reshape industries.
The firm manages a portfolio of approximately nine companies, emphasizing its dedication to early-stage investments. Venture Forward Capital's approach combines capital provision with active operational involvement, making it an attractive partner for entrepreneurs. The firm is particularly interested in supporting both repeat founders with proven exits and first-time entrepreneurs, fostering a collaborative environment for growth.
Venture Forward Capital has established itself as a key player in the venture capital landscape, focusing on sectors such as logistics, healthcare, and construction. The firm aims to leverage its extensive experience and networks to drive innovation and growth within its portfolio companies.
Venture Forward Capital invests primarily in vertical AI solutions that aim to transform industries through innovative technologies. The firm targets pre-seed, seed, and Series A stages, focusing on startups based in the United States. Their investment strategy emphasizes operational involvement alongside capital provision, ensuring that they actively engage with founders to drive growth and innovation.
The sectors of interest for Venture Forward Capital include AI, logistics, healthcare, and construction. The firm seeks to partner with both repeat founders who have a track record of successful exits and first-time entrepreneurs who demonstrate strong potential. This dual focus allows them to create a diverse portfolio that benefits from the insights and experiences of seasoned entrepreneurs while also nurturing new talent.
Venture Forward Capital values operational expertise and hands-on support, believing that spending necessary time with founders and asking insightful questions can significantly impact a startup's trajectory. Their commitment to fostering a collaborative environment is evident in their approach to investment, where they prioritize building strong relationships with the entrepreneurs they support.
Venture Forward Capital's portfolio includes a diverse range of companies that exemplify their focus on vertical AI solutions:
This portfolio reflects Venture Forward Capital's commitment to investing in innovative technologies that have the potential to disrupt traditional industries and create significant value.
Michael Schatzman: Founder & Managing Partner. Michael is a serial entrepreneur with 25 years of experience in building and scaling businesses. He is known for his ability to connect people and ideas, making him a valuable asset to the firm.
Ohad Tzur: Managing Partner. Ohad has 18 years of experience in SaaS and AI, transitioning from a founder to an investor. His expertise in go-to-market strategies is a key component of the firm's investment approach.
Edward Crump: Chief AI Officer & Venture Partner. Edward is recognized as an AI thought leader and investor, having led 11 successful exits. His deep understanding of AI technologies informs the firm's investment decisions.
Julie Bevacqua: Chief Platform Officer & Partner. Julie brings extensive experience in operational support and platform development, ensuring that portfolio companies receive the resources they need to succeed.
Alexa D’Agostino: Chief Marketing Officer. Alexa's background in marketing and communications helps the firm effectively position its portfolio companies in the market.
Josh Yelen, CPA: CFO & Partner. Josh oversees the firm's financial operations, ensuring sound financial management and reporting.
Lauren Murphy: Managing Partner - Fund I. Lauren plays a crucial role in managing the firm's first fund, focusing on investment strategy and portfolio management.
Kasra Davar: Analyst. Kasra supports the investment team with research and analysis, contributing to the firm's decision-making process.
To pitch Venture Forward Capital, founders should submit their proposals through the firm's website at ventureforwardcapital.com. It is essential to include a well-structured pitch deck that outlines the business model, market opportunity, and details about the founding team.
Founders are encouraged to provide clear information about their technology and how it addresses specific industry challenges. While there is no specific application form mentioned, a concise and compelling presentation will increase the chances of a positive response.
Response times may vary, but founders should expect to hear back within a few weeks. Warm introductions are preferred, as they can facilitate a more favorable review process.
As of November 2023, Venture Forward Capital has actively expanded its portfolio, currently comprising approximately nine companies. The firm continues to focus on vertical AI solutions, with recent investments highlighting their commitment to transformative technologies.
The rebranding from New Leaf Ventures to Venture Forward Capital has been confirmed through multiple sources, including the firm's own website and industry profiles. This transition marks a significant milestone in the firm's evolution, aligning its identity with its investment focus.
Recent activity indicates that Venture Forward Capital is well-positioned to capitalize on emerging trends in AI and related sectors, with a strong emphasis on operational involvement in its portfolio companies.
What investment criteria does Venture Forward Capital use?
Venture Forward Capital focuses on vertical AI solutions, primarily targeting pre-seed, seed, and Series A stages. They invest in sectors such as logistics, healthcare, and construction, seeking both repeat founders with proven exits and first-time entrepreneurs with strong potential.
How can I apply or pitch to Venture Forward Capital?
Founders can pitch their startups through the firm's website at ventureforwardcapital.com. It is advisable to include a clear business model, market opportunity, and details about the founding team in the pitch deck.
What makes Venture Forward Capital different from other investors?
The firm emphasizes operational involvement alongside capital provision, which allows them to actively engage with founders and provide hands-on support. This approach is designed to drive growth and innovation within their portfolio companies.
What is the geographic scope of Venture Forward Capital's investments?
Venture Forward Capital primarily invests in startups based in the United States, although they describe themselves as a global VC firm.
What is the typical check size for investments?
While specific check sizes are not publicly disclosed, Venture Forward Capital focuses on seed and early-stage investments, indicating a preference for smaller, initial funding rounds.
What kind of post-investment involvement can founders expect?
Founders can expect hands-on operational support and guidance from the Venture Forward Capital team, which includes experienced entrepreneurs who understand the challenges of scaling a business.
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