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Open Access Ventures (OAV) is a venture capital firm founded to modernize venture capital practices for early-stage founders. Established in the United States, OAV emphasizes a founder-first investment strategy, ensuring that the needs and goals of entrepreneurs are prioritized. The firm operates with a unique model that embeds a full C-suite-level team into portfolio companies for 10 months, providing essential operational support and expertise.
Currently, OAV manages a portfolio that includes one notable company, Scratch Social, Inc., which successfully exited in November 2023 with a valuation of $2.5 million. The firm is based in Florida and has been recognized for its innovative approach to venture capital, including being awarded
Open Access Ventures invests in early-stage companies across various sectors, with a particular emphasis on helping founders achieve product-market fit and strong defensibility. The firm typically provides funding ranging from $10,000 to $100,000, often leading investments as part of larger bridge rounds. OAV also runs an eight-week cohort program designed to prepare founders for investment readiness, equipping them with the necessary tools and skills to attract further funding.
OAV has a notable portfolio company, Scratch Social, Inc, which enhances the amateur golf experience by connecting players, sharing live scorecards, and showcasing memorable moments. Scratch Social was exited in November 2023 with a valuation of $2.5 million.
Steven Gelley serves as the CEO and founder of Open Access Ventures. He is a multi-exit entrepreneur with a track record of over $70 million in exits across three companies, and he drives the firm's operator-first philosophy.
Founders interested in pitching to Open Access Ventures should include detailed information about their business model, market potential, and how they plan to achieve product-market fit. The firm encourages applications through their website.
Open Access Ventures runs a program called OAV University, which is designed to help early-stage founders become 'fundable.' This pre-investment educational program provides pitch materials, skills development, and strategic access to resources that prepare founders for investment readiness.
In November 2023, Open Access Ventures successfully exited its portfolio company, Scratch Social, Inc, achieving a valuation of $2.5 million. The firm also sponsored the 2025 Startup World Cup, enhancing its visibility within the global startup competition circuit.
What is Open Access Ventures' investment criteria?
OAV focuses on early-stage companies, particularly in the pre-seed and seed stages, providing funding between $10,000 and $100,000.
How does the application process work?
Founders can apply through the OAV website, where they can also find information about the cohort program designed to prepare them for investment readiness.
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