Discover if this is a suitable investor for your startup. If they are we'll make a warm introduction for free. Otherwise, we'll connect you with matching investors.
Ocean Road Partners is a venture capital firm based in Venice, California, focusing on seed and early-stage investments in technology-enabled companies. Founded by Jon Funk, who has over 30 years of experience in venture capital, the firm has established itself as a key player in the Southern California investment landscape. Funk previously served as Managing Director at Allegis Capital, where he played a significant role in the firm's growth and success.
The firm operates both as a direct investor and through an AngelList syndicate, which allows for a broader distribution of deal flow. Ocean Road Partners has a notable history of successful investments, including historical exits such as Rent.com and Shopzilla. The firm continues to evolve, targeting innovative companies that leverage technology to create impactful solutions.
Currently, Ocean Road Partners focuses on early-stage investments, primarily in the fintech and consumer sectors. The firm has a broad tech mandate, allowing it to explore diverse investment opportunities. While specific metrics such as AUM and fund size are not disclosed, the firm is recognized for its strategic advisory services, leveraging Jon Funk's extensive network and experience.
Ocean Road Partners specializes in seed and early-stage investments, primarily targeting information technology-enabled companies. The firm focuses on sectors such as fintech and consumer, with a strong emphasis on opportunities within Southern California. This geographic focus allows Ocean Road Partners to tap into the vibrant startup ecosystem in the region, fostering relationships with emerging companies.
The firm operates as both a direct investor and through an AngelList syndicate, which enhances its deal flow and investment opportunities. Ocean Road Partners seeks to partner with founders who are innovative and driven, looking for companies that can leverage technology to create significant market impact. The firm’s investment strategy is characterized by a broad tech mandate, enabling it to explore various sectors without being confined to a specific vertical.
In terms of deal structure, Ocean Road Partners typically invests at the seed stage, providing not only capital but also strategic advisory services to its portfolio companies. This dual approach allows the firm to support its investments actively and contribute to their growth trajectories.
Ocean Road Partners has a diverse portfolio that includes both historical exits and recent investments. Notable historical exits include:
Recent investments reflect the firm's focus on technology-driven solutions:
This mix of historical successes and current investments illustrates Ocean Road Partners' commitment to supporting innovative companies in the fintech and consumer sectors.
Jon Funk - Founder and General Partner
Jon Funk has over 30 years of experience in venture capital, making him one of the most seasoned investors in the Los Angeles area. He previously served as Managing Director at Allegis Capital, where he was instrumental in the firm's growth. Funk is also an adjunct faculty member at UCLA Anderson School of Management, where he teaches entrepreneurship and venture capital.
His extensive background includes mentoring at Startup UCLA, further demonstrating his commitment to supporting emerging entrepreneurs. Funk's expertise spans various sectors, with a particular focus on technology-driven investments.
To pitch Ocean Road Partners, founders should use the AngelList syndicate profile at venture.angellist.com/jonfunk18/syndicate. It is recommended to include a comprehensive pitch deck that outlines the business model, market analysis, and team qualifications. Founders should expect a response time of approximately 2-4 weeks after submission.
Warm introductions are preferred, as they can enhance the likelihood of securing a meeting with the firm. Clear communication and a compelling narrative are key components of a successful pitch.
As of March 2026, Ocean Road Partners continues to focus on seed and early-stage investments in technology-enabled companies. The firm has made recent investments in companies like Discotech and U-Nest, reflecting its commitment to the fintech and consumer sectors.
Jon Funk's active role in the venture capital community, including his teaching at UCLA and mentoring at Startup UCLA, positions Ocean Road Partners as a significant player in the Southern California investment landscape.
What are Ocean Road Partners' investment criteria?
Ocean Road Partners primarily invests in seed and early-stage companies that are technology-enabled, focusing on sectors such as fintech and consumer. The firm looks for innovative solutions that can create significant market impact.
How can I apply or pitch to Ocean Road Partners?
Founders can pitch to Ocean Road Partners through their AngelList syndicate profile at venture.angellist.com/jonfunk18/syndicate. It is advisable to include a clear business model, market analysis, and the team’s background in the pitch deck.
What makes Ocean Road Partners different from other VC firms?
Ocean Road Partners distinguishes itself through its focus on seed and early-stage investments in Southern California, combined with Jon Funk's extensive experience and network in the venture capital space. The firm provides not only capital but also strategic advisory services to its portfolio companies.
What is the geographic scope of Ocean Road Partners' investments?
The firm primarily targets opportunities within Southern California, leveraging the region's vibrant startup ecosystem to identify promising investments.
What is the typical check size for investments?
While specific check sizes are not disclosed, Ocean Road Partners focuses on seed-stage investments, which typically range from $100,000 to $1 million, depending on the opportunity.
What kind of post-investment involvement does Ocean Road Partners have?
Ocean Road Partners actively engages with its portfolio companies, providing strategic advisory services and leveraging Jon Funk's network to support their growth and development.
All trademarks, logos and brand names are the property of their respective owners. All company, product and service names used in this website are for identification purposes only. Use of these names, trademarks, and brands does not imply endorsement.