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New Theory Ventures is an evergreen fund and venture catalyst founded by Nikki Eslami. Established in the United States, the firm focuses on investing in women and diverse founders, aiming to support innovative brands and drive capital towards impact-forward companies. The organization emphasizes amplifying new voices in the business landscape, particularly in sectors that have been historically underfunded.
As of now, New Theory Ventures manages a portfolio of nine companies, showcasing its commitment to fostering diversity in entrepreneurship. The firm operates with a unique four-tier investment model that encompasses early-stage funding, strategic expansion capital, and philanthropic initiatives. This model ensures that portfolio companies receive comprehensive support at pivotal moments in their growth journey.
New Theory Ventures has made notable strides in the venture capital space, particularly with its founder Nikki Eslami, who co-founded BELLAMI, a leading hair extension brand, which was acquired in 2022. The firm’s focus on sectors such as beauty, wellness, food, lifestyle, and technology positions it as a key player in driving change within these industries.
New Theory Ventures invests primarily in sectors including beauty, wellness, food, lifestyle, and technology. The firm specifically targets women and diverse founders, emphasizing the importance of amplifying new voices in the business landscape. This focus is underscored by the firm’s investment thesis, which states, "Profit funds purpose, and purpose creates profit." This philosophy drives the firm to support innovative companies led by underrepresented founders.
The organization employs a four-tier investment model that includes: 1) **Origin** for early-stage seed funding; 2) **Accelerate** for brands with proven product-market fit, providing strategic expansion capital; 3) **Catalyst** for financing, branding, and supply chain support at pivotal growth moments; and 4) **Impact**, a philanthropic model that shifts power to frontline leaders. This structured approach allows New Theory Ventures to cater to a diverse range of investment needs.
New Theory Ventures has a diverse portfolio of nine companies, each contributing to its mission of supporting women and diverse founders. Notable portfolio companies include:
This portfolio reflects New Theory Ventures' commitment to investing in brands that prioritize impact and innovation.
Nikki Eslami - Founder & CEO. Nikki co-founded BELLAMI, the largest global hair extension brand, in 2012, which was acquired by Beauty Industry Group in 2022. She has also founded Wild Elements and IN+ON bodyCARE through New Theory Ventures. Nikki has been featured in WWD as one of the "Most Powerful Women Shaping Beauty's Finance & Investments," highlighting her influence in the industry.
To pitch New Theory Ventures, founders should visit their website at newtheoryventures.com. It is advisable to include a comprehensive pitch deck that outlines the business model, market analysis, and team background. The firm prefers pitches that clearly articulate the impact and innovation of the product or service.
Response times may vary, but founders can expect to hear back within a few weeks. Warm introductions are encouraged, as they can enhance the likelihood of a favorable review.
In 2022, New Theory Ventures celebrated the acquisition of BELLAMI by Beauty Industry Group, marking a significant milestone for founder Nikki Eslami. The firm continues to promote its mission of supporting women and diverse founders through its investments in notable portfolio companies such as Thirteen Lune, Maude, and Babylon Micro-Farms. Recent updates on their website emphasize their commitment to amplifying innovative brands, although no specific blog activity has been detected.
What are New Theory Ventures' investment criteria?
New Theory Ventures focuses on investing in women and diverse founders across sectors such as beauty, wellness, food, lifestyle, and technology. The firm looks for innovative brands that are impact-forward and have the potential for significant growth.
How can founders apply or pitch to New Theory Ventures?
Founders can pitch their ideas through the New Theory Ventures website at newtheoryventures.com. It is recommended to include a detailed business plan, market analysis, and information about the founding team in the pitch deck.
What makes New Theory Ventures different from other VC firms?
New Theory Ventures operates with a unique four-tier investment model that provides not only capital but also strategic support in branding, supply chain management, and growth strategies. This comprehensive approach ensures that portfolio companies receive the necessary resources to thrive.
What is the geographic scope of New Theory Ventures?
The firm is based in the United States and primarily invests in companies located within the country, focusing on sectors that have been historically underfunded.
What is the fund size or check size for investments?
While specific fund sizes are not disclosed, New Theory Ventures provides early-stage seed funding as well as strategic expansion capital, indicating a flexible check size depending on the needs of the portfolio company.
What type of post-investment involvement does New Theory Ventures have?
New Theory Ventures is actively involved with its portfolio companies, offering support in branding, supply chain management, and growth strategies. The firm aims to empower founders through mentorship and operational support.
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