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Punakaiki Fund is a venture capital firm based in New Zealand, co-founded by Lance Wiggs and Chris Humphreys in 2012. The firm has been operational since 2014 and operates as an evergreen fund, which allows it to invest in companies with a long-term perspective. Punakaiki Fund manages over $100 million across its funds and has made more than 120 investments in over 30 companies.
Headquartered in Wellington, New Zealand, Punakaiki Fund has established itself as one of the larger dedicated venture capital funds in the region. The firm focuses on high-growth technology companies, particularly those with Software as a Service (SaaS) business models. Notable milestones include significant investments in companies like Vend, which was acquired by Lightspeed for over $350 million.
Punakaiki Fund primarily invests in high-growth technology companies, with a strong emphasis on Software as a Service (SaaS) business models. The firm targets companies that demonstrate a clear understanding of their end users and possess sustainable growth potential. Investment stages include Seed, Series A, and Series B, with check sizes ranging from $90,000 to $1 million.
The firm adheres to a strong Socially Responsible Investment Policy, avoiding sectors with high emissions and certain other industries. This commitment to responsible investing aligns with their focus on supporting companies that contribute positively to society. Punakaiki Fund's geographic focus is primarily on Oceania, allowing them to leverage local market knowledge and networks.
Punakaiki Fund's portfolio includes a diverse range of technology companies, with notable examples including:
Additionally, Punakaiki Fund has achieved notable exits, including Vend, which was acquired by Lightspeed for over $350 million, marking one of New Zealand's most significant tech exits.
Lance Wiggs: Co-Founder of Punakaiki Fund, Lance has extensive experience in venture capital and entrepreneurship. He has been involved in numerous successful investments and has a strong background in technology.
Chris Humphreys: Co-Founder of Punakaiki Fund, Chris brings a wealth of knowledge in finance and investment management. He has played a key role in shaping the firm's investment strategy.
Nadine Hill: Partner at Punakaiki Fund, Nadine has a background in technology and investment, focusing on supporting portfolio companies in their growth journeys.
Jez Weston: Partner at Punakaiki Fund, Jez specializes in operational support and strategic guidance for portfolio companies, leveraging his experience in the tech sector.
Rohan MacMahon: Partner at Punakaiki Fund, Rohan has a strong track record in venture capital and is involved in sourcing and evaluating new investment opportunities.
Mike Bennetts: Independent Chair, Mike has extensive experience in corporate governance and provides oversight and strategic direction for the firm.
Nigel Scott: Director at Punakaiki Fund, Nigel contributes to the firm's investment decisions and portfolio management.
Jayshree Das: Director at Punakaiki Fund, Jayshree has a background in finance and plays a key role in evaluating investment opportunities.
Teressa Betty: Director at Punakaiki Fund, Teressa brings expertise in technology and investment management to the firm's operations.
To pitch to Punakaiki Fund, founders should submit their proposals through the firm's website. It is important to include a comprehensive business plan and financial projections in the pitch deck.
Response times can vary, but founders can expect to hear back within a few weeks. Warm introductions are preferred, as they can facilitate a more favorable review process.
In recent months, Punakaiki Fund has been active in leading investment rounds, including a $2 million growth round for Orah and a $12 million raise for Hectre. These investments highlight the firm's commitment to supporting high-growth technology companies.
Additionally, Whip Around attracted a majority investment from a US private equity firm, showcasing the potential of Punakaiki Fund's portfolio companies in the global market.
The firm regularly publishes insights on startup success and investment strategies on its blog, contributing to the broader conversation around venture capital and technology innovation.
What are Punakaiki Fund's investment criteria?
Punakaiki Fund invests in high-growth technology companies, particularly those with SaaS business models. They look for companies that understand their end users and demonstrate sustainable growth potential.
How can I apply or pitch to Punakaiki Fund?
Founders can pitch their ideas through the Punakaiki Fund website. It is recommended to provide a clear business plan and demonstrate market understanding in the pitch.
What makes Punakaiki Fund different from other VC firms?
Punakaiki Fund operates as an evergreen fund, allowing for long-term support of portfolio companies. They also adhere to a strong Socially Responsible Investment Policy, avoiding sectors with high emissions.
What is the geographic scope of Punakaiki Fund's investments?
The firm primarily focuses on investments in Oceania, leveraging local market knowledge and networks to support its portfolio companies.
What is the typical check size for investments?
Punakaiki Fund typically invests between $90,000 and $1 million in its portfolio companies, depending on the stage and needs of the business.
What kind of post-investment involvement does Punakaiki Fund have?
Punakaiki Fund provides long-term support and strategic guidance to its portfolio companies, helping them scale and achieve sustainable growth.
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