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New Voices Fund (NVF) is a venture capital firm founded in 2018 during the Essence Festival in New Orleans. The firm was established by Richelieu Dennis, a prominent entrepreneur known for founding Sundial Brands. NVF is based in the United States and has a mission to invest in companies that are owned and managed by women of color, addressing the evolving needs of consumers and leveraging emerging market opportunities.
Currently, NVF manages a fund size of $100 million and has built a portfolio of over 27 companies. The firm is composed of a team of experienced investors and former founders, collectively bringing over 100 years of experience in the consumer industry. Notable milestones include the successful exits of several portfolio companies, indicating a strong track record in investment outcomes.
New Voices Fund operates with a commitment to inclusion and diversity, aiming to drive innovation in the consumer sector. The firm also collaborates with the New Voices Foundation, a nonprofit that supports women of color entrepreneurs through various programs, including accelerators and mentorship.
New Voices Fund focuses on investing in category-defining consumer brands and services, as well as the commerce infrastructure that supports them. The firm targets innovative companies that anticipate shifts in consumer behavior and leverage technology to meet these demands. NVF's investment strategy encompasses several sectors, including consumer, commerce, fintech, food-agtech, healthcare, media, and mobility.
The firm invests across a range of stages, from seed through Series C, allowing it to support companies at various points in their growth journey. NVF seeks to back businesses that not only demonstrate strong market potential but also align with its mission of promoting diversity and inclusion within the consumer landscape. The firm emphasizes the importance of visionary leadership and aims to partner with founders who are committed to addressing the needs of diverse consumer bases.
New Voices Fund has a diverse portfolio of 27 companies, many of which have successfully exited. Notable exits include:
This portfolio reflects NVF's commitment to supporting innovative consumer brands that resonate with diverse audiences.
Richelieu Dennis - Managing Partner; founder of Sundial Brands, known for his expertise in consumer packaged goods and commitment to empowering women of color entrepreneurs.
Darryl Thompson - Managing Partner & CIO; brings extensive experience in investment management and strategic planning within the venture capital space.
Richelyna Hall - Operating Partner; has a background in operations and business development, focusing on enhancing portfolio company performance.
Steve Chan - Independent Investment and Operating Partner; offers insights from his experience in both investment and operational roles across various sectors.
Ensa Huger - CFO & CCO; oversees financial operations and compliance, ensuring the fund's fiscal health and regulatory adherence.
William James - Senior Director of Compliance & Fund Operations; responsible for maintaining compliance standards and operational efficiency within the fund.
Brigham Stewart - Director of Financial Planning and Analysis; focuses on financial strategy and planning to support the fund's growth objectives.
Luke Thompson - Associate; assists in deal sourcing and analysis, contributing to the firm's investment decision-making process.
To pitch New Voices Fund, founders should visit their website at newvoicesfund.com. The firm prefers pitches that include a comprehensive overview of the business model, market opportunity, and alignment with their investment thesis. Founders should be prepared for a thorough review process and may expect a response within a few weeks.
Warm introductions are encouraged, as they can facilitate the pitching process. The firm values connections that demonstrate a shared understanding of their mission and investment focus.
In April 2026, New Voices Fund announced the successful exit of several portfolio companies, further solidifying its reputation in the venture capital space. The firm continues to focus on expanding its portfolio with innovative consumer brands.
In 2025, New Voices Fund participated in the Essence Festival, highlighting its commitment to supporting women of color entrepreneurs and showcasing its portfolio companies. The event served as a platform for networking and collaboration within the community.
Throughout 2024, NVF actively engaged in discussions around diversity in venture capital, emphasizing the importance of inclusion in investment strategies. The firm has been recognized for its efforts to promote diverse leadership in the consumer sector.
What are New Voices Fund's investment criteria?
New Voices Fund invests in companies that are owned and managed by women of color, focusing on category-defining consumer brands and services. The firm looks for businesses that leverage technology to meet evolving consumer needs and anticipate shifts in market demands.
How can I apply or pitch to New Voices Fund?
Founders interested in pitching to New Voices Fund can visit their website at newvoicesfund.com for more information on the application process. The firm encourages pitches that clearly articulate the business model, market opportunity, and alignment with their investment thesis.
What makes New Voices Fund different from other venture capital firms?
New Voices Fund is distinct in its focus on investing in businesses led by women of color, addressing the unique challenges and opportunities within this demographic. The firm combines capital investment with strategic guidance and mentorship, leveraging the team's extensive experience in the consumer industry.
What is the geographic scope of New Voices Fund's investments?
New Voices Fund primarily focuses on investments within the United States. However, it has made an exception for Moniepoint, which is based in Nigeria, reflecting the firm's interest in diverse markets.
What is the typical fund size and check size for New Voices Fund?
The fund size for New Voices Fund is $100 million. While specific check sizes are not publicly disclosed, the firm invests across various stages, from seed to Series C, indicating flexibility in funding amounts based on the company's needs.
What kind of post-investment involvement does New Voices Fund have?
New Voices Fund provides not only capital but also strategic guidance and mentorship to its portfolio companies. The firm actively engages with founders to help them navigate challenges and scale their businesses effectively.
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