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Open Access Ventures (OAV) is a Miami-based micro-venture capital firm founded in 2021. The organization operates a hybrid model that integrates a cohort-based accelerator program with direct investment, providing embedded operational support to portfolio companies. OAV aims to modernize venture capital practices by equipping early-stage founders with the necessary resources and network to thrive.
As of now, OAV manages a portfolio that includes one notable exit, Scratch Social, Inc., which was valued at $2.5 million upon its exit in November 2023. The firm has a reported combined portfolio valuation exceeding $72 million. OAV's team includes experienced entrepreneurs and investors, enhancing its ability to support startups effectively.
Open Access Ventures invests in early-stage companies across various sectors, focusing on pre-seed, seed, and seed-plus stages. The firm typically provides funding of up to $100,000, often as part of a $350,000 bridge round. Their investment strategy emphasizes a founder-first approach, targeting teams that demonstrate established product-market fit and strong defensibility.
OAV runs an eight-week cohort program, known as OAV University, designed to prepare founders for investment. This program equips participants with essential tools, including pitch materials and strategic access, to enhance their chances of securing funding. The firm’s operational support model embeds a C-suite-level team alongside portfolio companies for 10 months post-investment, ensuring founders receive hands-on guidance as they navigate early-stage challenges.
Open Access Ventures has a focused portfolio that includes the following notable company:
OAV's portfolio strategy is characterized by its emphasis on operational support and founder development, which is evident in their approach to managing their single portfolio company.
Steven (Steve) Gelley - CEO and Co-founder; Steve is a serial entrepreneur with three successful exits, including co-founding wemlo, a mortgage loan processing company, and Xendoo, which provides accounting and bookkeeping services for small and medium-sized businesses.
David Rogove - Co-founder; David brings experience in early-stage investments and startup development, contributing to OAV's mission of supporting founders.
Founders interested in pitching to Open Access Ventures should submit their proposals through the firm's website. It is important to include detailed information about the business model, market opportunity, and team qualifications in the pitch deck. Response times may vary, so patience is advised after submission.
Open Access Ventures runs the OAV University program, an eight-week cohort designed to prepare early-stage founders for investment. This program provides essential resources, including pitch materials and strategic access, to help founders become investor-ready.
In November 2023, Open Access Ventures exited its notable portfolio company, Scratch Social, Inc., with a valuation of $2.5 million. This exit highlights OAV's active engagement in the startup ecosystem.
In August 2024, OAV made its latest known investment in Koru Global, a company focused on business and productivity software. Additionally, OAV is sponsoring the 2025 Startup World Cup, committing $100,000 to the winning startup.
What are Open Access Ventures' investment criteria?
Open Access Ventures focuses on early-stage companies, particularly in the pre-seed and seed stages. They look for teams with established product-market fit and strong defensibility. The typical check size is up to $100,000, often as part of a larger bridge round.
How can founders apply or pitch to Open Access Ventures?
Founders can pitch to Open Access Ventures through their website at openaccess.ventures. It is advisable to include a clear business model, market analysis, and details on product-market fit in the pitch deck.
What makes Open Access Ventures different from other investors?
OAV differentiates itself through its embedded operational support model, which includes a C-suite-level team that works with portfolio companies for 10 months post-investment. This hands-on approach helps founders navigate challenges effectively.
What is the geographic focus of Open Access Ventures?
Open Access Ventures primarily invests in early-stage companies located in the United States, particularly those based in Miami and the Southeast region.
What is the structure of the funding provided by Open Access Ventures?
OAV typically leads investments of up to $100,000 as part of a $350,000 bridge round. This structure allows them to support startups while also collaborating with other investors.
What kind of post-investment involvement can founders expect?
Founders can expect significant post-investment involvement from Open Access Ventures, including access to an embedded C-suite-level team that provides operational support and guidance for 10 months after the investment.
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