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Placeholder is a venture capital firm founded in 2017 and based in New York. The firm is co-managed by partners Joel Monegro and Chris Burniske, both of whom have significant backgrounds in the venture capital and blockchain sectors. Placeholder focuses on early-stage investments in decentralized networks, blockchain protocols, and Web3 infrastructure. The firm has built a diverse portfolio that includes over 75 companies and networks, supported by notable investors such as Andreessen Horowitz, ARK Invest, and Union Square Ventures.
Structured as a 10-year venture fund, Placeholder emphasizes a long-term perspective in its investment strategy. The firm has established itself as a key player in the blockchain investment space, leveraging its extensive network and expertise to support innovative technologies. Its headquarters in New York positions it within a vibrant financial ecosystem, allowing for strategic partnerships and collaborations.
Placeholder primarily invests in early-stage companies within the blockchain and cryptocurrency sectors, specifically targeting projects that enhance scalability, security, and user experience. The firm participates in various stages of funding, including Pre-seed, Seed, Seed+, and Series A rounds. Its investment strategy blends traditional venture capital structures with public market practices, allowing for a unique approach to funding decentralized networks and protocols.
The firm seeks projects with strong technical foundations and visionary teams, focusing on innovative technologies that can drive the future of decentralized information networks. Placeholder's investment thesis emphasizes the importance of supporting projects that can significantly impact the blockchain ecosystem, ensuring that they are well-positioned for growth and success.
Placeholder has a diverse portfolio of over 75 companies, showcasing its commitment to the blockchain and cryptocurrency sectors. Notable portfolio companies include:
This portfolio reflects Placeholder's focus on innovative technologies and decentralized solutions, positioning it as a significant player in the blockchain investment landscape.
Joel Monegro - Partner; co-founder of Placeholder and former analyst at Union Square Ventures. Known for the influential 'Fat Protocols' thesis in crypto investing.
Chris Burniske - Partner; co-founder of Placeholder and former analyst at ARK Investment Management. Author of 'Cryptoassets: The Innovative Investor's Guide to Bitcoin and Beyond'.
Brad Burnham - Venture Partner; co-founder of Union Square Ventures, bringing extensive experience in traditional venture capital.
Mario Laul - Head of Research; responsible for guiding investment research and analysis within the firm.
Shelly Gogol - General Manager; oversees operational aspects of the firm and supports portfolio management.
To pitch to Placeholder, founders should visit their website at placeholder.vc. It is essential to include a comprehensive pitch deck that outlines the project, the team, and the market opportunity. Placeholder prefers detailed information about the technology and its potential impact on the blockchain ecosystem. Response times may vary, but founders should expect a thorough review process.
In 2023, Placeholder continues to expand its portfolio, having invested in several notable blockchain projects. The firm has been actively participating in funding rounds for emerging technologies in the decentralized finance (DeFi) space.
Placeholder's partners have also been featured in various industry podcasts and publications, discussing their investment strategies and insights into the future of blockchain technology. Their thought leadership positions the firm as a key player in the evolving landscape of venture capital focused on decentralized networks.
What are Placeholder's investment criteria?
Placeholder invests in early-stage companies primarily within the blockchain and cryptocurrency sectors. The firm looks for projects that enhance scalability, security, and user experience, with a strong technical foundation and visionary teams.
How can founders pitch to Placeholder?
Founders can submit their pitches through the Placeholder website at placeholder.vc. It is recommended to include a detailed overview of the project, the team, and the market opportunity in the pitch deck.
What makes Placeholder different from other venture capital firms?
Placeholder blends traditional venture capital structures with public market practices, allowing for a unique investment approach in decentralized networks and protocols. The firm emphasizes long-term support for its portfolio companies.
What is Placeholder's geographic focus?
Placeholder focuses exclusively on investments within the United States, targeting early-stage blockchain and cryptocurrency companies.
What is the typical check size for investments?
While specific check sizes are not disclosed, Placeholder participates in Pre-seed, Seed, Seed+, and Series A rounds, indicating a flexible approach to funding based on the needs of the startup.
What kind of post-investment involvement does Placeholder have?
Placeholder provides strategic guidance and support to its portfolio companies, leveraging its extensive network in the blockchain and venture capital space to enhance scalability and user experience improvements.
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