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.
Piva Capital is a venture capital firm based in San Francisco, founded to invest in companies and technologies that are transforming industries. Established in 2019, the firm launched its first fund with a size of $250 million, focusing on early to growth-stage companies. Piva Capital has a team of approximately 16 professionals, including six partners and several advisors, who bring extensive experience in industrial and energy sectors.
The firm operates globally, with a network of partners across over 90 countries, allowing it to tap into a wide range of innovative solutions. Piva Capital emphasizes a thesis-driven approach to investment, targeting foundational cross-industry technological solutions that have substantial deployment value and scalable sales potential. The firm has made significant strides in the venture capital space, actively investing in transformative technologies aimed at addressing significant global challenges.
Piva Capital invests in early to growth-stage companies that are at commercial inflection points. The firm’s investment strategy is centered around three primary areas: the Future of Industry & Work, the Future of Materials & Production, and the Future of Energy & Mobility. Within these sectors, Piva Capital focuses on technologies such as IoT, AI, robotics, automation, specialty chemicals, and energy transition solutions.
The firm typically invests in pre-seed, seed, seed-plus, Series A, and growth equity stages, with initial check sizes ranging from $10 million to $15 million. Piva Capital is particularly interested in climate and deep-tech startups that aim to make traditional industries greener, more efficient, and safer. Their geographic focus includes North America and Europe, and they are willing to invest in hardware-heavy and deep-tech ventures, distinguishing themselves in the venture capital landscape.
Piva Capital's portfolio comprises 17 companies across various sectors, showcasing its commitment to transformative technologies. Notable companies include:
Ricardo Angel, PhD - CEO & Managing Partner; brings over 25 years of investing and operational experience in industrial and energy sectors.
Mark Gudiksen, PhD - Managing Partner; has a strong background in venture capital and technology investments.
Adzmel Adznan - Co-Founding Partner; focuses on strategic investments and partnerships.
Lisa Read Blanco - Partner & Legal Counsel; provides legal expertise and guidance on investment structures.
Adam Lasics - Partner (Strategy & Operations); specializes in operational strategy and scaling businesses.
Maria Buitron - Principal; focuses on sourcing and evaluating investment opportunities.
Roxanne Baine - Principal; has experience in venture capital and technology sectors.
Jillian Noel - Investor; previously worked at McKinsey and specializes in decarbonization.
Lee Larson - Investor; focuses on sourcing and evaluating new investments.
Issam Dairanieh, PhD - Venture Partner; brings expertise in technology and innovation.
Steve Foster - Venture Partner; has a background in venture capital and strategic investments.
Robert Siegel - Venture Partner; focuses on technology investments and market trends.
Michael S. Idelchik, PhD - Senior Advisor; provides insights on technology and market dynamics.
Elizabeth Ann Lowery - Senior Advisor; offers strategic guidance on investments.
Don Wood - Senior Advisor; brings extensive experience in venture capital.
Tony Di Bona - Chief Financial Officer; manages financial operations and strategy.
Divina Agellon - Office Manager; oversees administrative functions and office management.
Piva Capital prefers to receive pitches through their website or via email. Founders should include a comprehensive deck that outlines the business model, market opportunity, and financial projections. Response times can vary, but the firm aims to review submissions promptly. Warm introductions are beneficial but not mandatory.
In January 2024, Piva Capital led a $129 million Series B investment in INERATEC, a company focused on e-fuels. In the fall of 2023, they participated in a $262 million Series C round for Boston Metal, which is working on green steel production. In 2024, Piva Capital co-led a $12 million Series A investment in Planted Solar alongside Khosla Ventures.
Additionally, Piva Capital made a Series D investment in Lunar Energy in February 2026, further expanding its portfolio in the clean energy sector. The firm continues to actively seek opportunities in transformative technologies that address significant global challenges.
What are Piva Capital's investment criteria?
Piva Capital focuses on early to growth-stage companies that are at commercial inflection points. They seek foundational cross-industry technological solutions with substantial deployment value and scalable sales potential, particularly in sectors like AI, energy, and healthcare.
How can I apply or pitch to Piva Capital?
Founders can pitch to Piva Capital through their website at piva.vc or via email at info@piva.vc. It is recommended to include a detailed business plan and financial projections in the pitch deck.
What makes Piva Capital different from other venture firms?
Piva Capital distinguishes itself by its thesis-driven approach and focus on transformative technologies that address significant global challenges. Their extensive global network and expertise in industrial and energy sectors provide added value to portfolio companies.
What is Piva Capital's geographic scope?
The firm primarily focuses on investments in North America and Europe, but they are open to global opportunities that align with their investment thesis.
What is the typical fund size and check size for investments?
Piva Capital's first fund was launched at $250 million, with initial check sizes typically ranging from $10 million to $15 million, depending on the stage of the company.
What kind of post-investment involvement does Piva Capital have?
Piva Capital adds value through strategic guidance and operational support, leveraging its network of industry experts to help portfolio companies scale and navigate market challenges.
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.