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PICO Venture Partners is a venture capital firm founded in 2015 in Israel, with offices in Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, and New York. The firm specializes in investing in early-stage startups, particularly those led by Israeli entrepreneurs who are developing innovative technologies aimed at disrupting existing markets. PICO's geographical positioning allows it to facilitate the entry of its portfolio companies into the U.S. market, providing essential resources and connections for growth.
Currently, PICO manages approximately $80 million in assets under management (AUM) and has invested in over 54 companies. The firm has established a reputation for its active involvement in the startup ecosystem, particularly in sectors such as e-commerce, fintech, healthcare, and cybersecurity. Notable milestones include backing companies that have achieved significant exits, such as Vroom and Spot.io, showcasing PICO's ability to identify and nurture high-potential startups.
PICO Venture Partners focuses on early-stage investments across a variety of sectors, including e-commerce, fintech, healthcare, cybersecurity, and enterprise software. The firm typically invests at the pre-seed, seed, and seed-plus stages, with check sizes ranging from $500,000 to $2 million. PICO's investment strategy emphasizes supporting visionary entrepreneurs who are looking to disrupt existing markets and create substantial business opportunities.
The firm seeks to partner with founders who demonstrate strong leadership qualities and a clear vision for their companies. PICO provides not only capital but also mentorship and access to a global business network, ensuring that entrepreneurs have the support they need to bring their innovative products to market. This comprehensive approach enhances the likelihood of success for portfolio companies as they navigate the complexities of market entry and growth.
PICO Venture Partners has built a diverse portfolio of 54 companies, showcasing its commitment to supporting innovative startups. Notable portfolio companies include:
Elie Wurtman - Co-Founder & Managing Partner. Elie has over two decades of experience as an entrepreneur, executive, and investor. He founded PICO in 2015 and has been involved in six unicorn companies prior to PICO. He is based in Jerusalem.
Todd Kesselman - Partner. Todd is a former investment banker in New York and co-founded an investment firm managing $2.5 billion of ultra-high-net-worth capital. His expertise lies in financial strategy and investment management.
Gina LaVersa - Partner. Gina has a background in investment banking and has worked alongside Kesselman, bringing valuable LP relationships to PICO. Her focus is on building strategic partnerships and investor relations.
Tal Yatsiv - General Partner. Tal has extensive experience in venture capital and technology investments, contributing to PICO's strategic direction and portfolio management.
Keren Kenan - Partner, Finance & Operations. Keren oversees financial operations and ensures efficient management of PICO's resources.
Tamir Carmi - Venture Partner. Tamir brings a wealth of experience in technology and entrepreneurship, providing guidance to portfolio companies.
Hila Krainer - Associate. Hila supports investment analysis and portfolio management, contributing to PICO's operational success.
Rotem Malichi - Director of Finance and Operations. Rotem manages financial strategies and operational efficiencies within the firm.
Meidan Alkobi - Program Manager, PICO Kids. Meidan leads initiatives aimed at fostering entrepreneurial skills among youth.
Erez Nachmanson - Program Manager, PICO Kids. Erez collaborates on programs that support youth entrepreneurship and innovation.
Zohar Frank - Legal Advisor. Zohar provides legal guidance and support for PICO's operations and investments.
Hagar Levin - Executive Assistant & Project Manager. Hagar assists in managing projects and administrative tasks within the firm.
Hila Ashuri - Office Manager, Jerusalem. Hila oversees office operations and logistics in the Jerusalem office.
Adi Elbaz - Chief of Staff. Adi supports the executive team and ensures smooth operations across the firm.
Shelly Pinhas - Executive Assistant. Shelly provides administrative support to the partners and team members.
To pitch PICO Venture Partners, founders should use the online pitch portal available at pico.partners/connect. It is important to include a comprehensive pitch deck that outlines the business model, market opportunity, competitive landscape, and team qualifications. PICO prefers to receive pitches through this channel to streamline the evaluation process.
Response times can vary, but founders can expect to hear back within a few weeks after submission. PICO values warm introductions, so leveraging connections within their network can enhance the chances of receiving a timely response.
PICO Venture Partners runs the PICO Kids program, which focuses on fostering entrepreneurial skills among younger generations. This initiative aims to inspire youth to engage in innovation and entrepreneurship, providing them with the tools and resources necessary to develop their ideas into viable businesses.
Eligibility for the PICO Kids program includes young individuals interested in entrepreneurship, and applications can typically be made through PICO's website. The program offers mentorship, workshops, and networking opportunities to help participants cultivate their entrepreneurial spirit.
In December 2023, PICO Venture Partners made a seed investment in Salvador Technologies, marking a continued commitment to early-stage innovation. This investment aligns with PICO's focus on supporting disruptive technologies across various sectors.
In 2021, PICO launched Fund III, although the specific size has not been publicly disclosed. The firm continues to actively deploy capital into promising startups, maintaining a consistent investment pace typical of early-stage Israeli venture capital firms.
What are PICO Venture Partners' investment criteria?
PICO Venture Partners invests in early-stage startups, particularly those led by Israeli entrepreneurs. The firm focuses on sectors such as e-commerce, fintech, healthcare, and cybersecurity, with a preference for companies developing disruptive technologies.
How can I pitch to PICO Venture Partners?
Founders can pitch to PICO Venture Partners by visiting their pitch portal at pico.partners/connect. It is recommended to include a detailed business plan and information about the team and market opportunity in the pitch deck.
What makes PICO Venture Partners different from other VCs?
PICO Venture Partners distinguishes itself through its strong geographical presence in both Israel and the U.S., which facilitates market entry for portfolio companies. The firm also emphasizes mentorship and access to a global business network, providing comprehensive support to entrepreneurs.
What is the geographic scope of PICO's investments?
PICO Venture Partners has a global investment focus, with a particular emphasis on startups in North America and Asia, alongside its core Israeli market.
What is the typical check size for investments?
PICO typically invests between $500,000 and $2 million in early-stage companies, depending on the specific needs and potential of the startup.
What kind of post-investment involvement does PICO have?
PICO Venture Partners actively engages with its portfolio companies through mentorship, strategic guidance, and access to its extensive network, helping startups navigate challenges and scale effectively.
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