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R7 is an early-stage venture capital firm founded in 2014, with offices in Chicago and New York. The firm focuses on investing in innovative companies that are developing advanced technologies across various sectors, particularly in hardtech and clean energy. R7 aims to support entrepreneurs who are creating products and services that can significantly impact the industrial economy.
As of now, R7 manages a portfolio of over 40 companies and has a team of approximately four members. The firm has established a strong presence in the venture capital landscape, particularly in North America, and has a notable track record of successful exits. R7's commitment to investing in transformative technologies positions it as a key player in the early-stage investment space.
R7 invests in early-stage companies pioneering advanced technologies in sectors such as biotechnology, energy, robotics, and artificial intelligence. The firm targets pre-seed to Series A stages, with typical check sizes ranging from $100,000 to $5 million, and a sweet spot of $250,000 to $2.5 million for Seed and Series A investments. R7 is particularly interested in hard-to-abate sectors, backing capital-intensive, long-horizon projects that promise to reshape the industrial landscape.
The firm seeks entrepreneurs who are developing innovative solutions that address significant challenges in the industrial economy. R7 often takes board seats at Seed and Series A stages, ensuring active involvement in the growth and development of its portfolio companies. This hands-on approach allows R7 to provide strategic guidance and industry connections, enhancing the potential for success in their investments.
R7's portfolio includes a diverse range of companies that are making strides in their respective fields. Notable portfolio companies include:
In addition to these notable companies, R7 has a broader portfolio that includes innovative startups such as Roam Robotics, Light Field Lab, and Inevitable, among others. The firm has successfully exited investments in companies like AEye, Amyris, and Bloom Energy, showcasing its ability to identify and support high-potential ventures.
Tyler V. Engh — Founder & General Partner. Tyler has a background in venture capital and has led notable investments in hardtech and clean energy sectors. He has a strong track record of identifying high-potential startups and guiding them through the early stages of growth.
R7's team consists of approximately four members, each bringing expertise in various aspects of venture capital and industry knowledge. The collective experience of the team enhances R7's ability to support its portfolio companies effectively.
To pitch R7, founders should visit their website at r7.vc. The pitch deck should include a comprehensive overview of the business, including the problem being solved, the solution offered, market analysis, and financial projections. R7 prefers clear and concise presentations that highlight the unique value proposition of the startup.
Founders should expect a response time of approximately two to four weeks after submission. Warm introductions are encouraged, as they can facilitate a more favorable review process.
As of October 2023, R7 has been actively promoting its investment focus and portfolio through its website. The firm highlights notable companies within its portfolio, including Range Energy, Reshape, and Bloom Energy. R7 emphasizes its commitment to supporting transformative technologies across various sectors.
Recent activity includes the successful exits of AEye, Amyris, and Bloom Energy, showcasing R7's ability to identify and support high-potential ventures. The firm continues to seek new investment opportunities in hard-to-abate sectors, reinforcing its position in the venture capital landscape.
What are R7's investment criteria?
R7 focuses on early-stage companies in hard-to-abate sectors, particularly in biotechnology, energy, robotics, and artificial intelligence. The firm looks for innovative solutions that address significant challenges in the industrial economy.
How can I apply or pitch to R7?
Founders can pitch their ideas through R7's website at r7.vc. It is recommended to include a clear overview of the business model, market opportunity, and technology in the pitch deck.
What makes R7 different from other venture capital firms?
R7 specializes in hardtech and clean energy investments, focusing on capital-intensive, long-horizon projects. The firm takes an active role in its portfolio companies, often securing board seats to provide strategic guidance.
What is R7's geographic scope?
R7 primarily invests in North America, targeting innovative companies that are developing advanced technologies within this region.
What is R7's typical fund size and check size?
The firm typically invests between $100,000 and $5 million, with a sweet spot of $250,000 to $2.5 million for Seed and Series A rounds. R7 has a portfolio of over 40 companies, indicating a significant level of activity in the venture capital space.
What kind of post-investment involvement does R7 have?
R7 provides strategic guidance and industry connections to its portfolio companies. The firm often takes board seats at Seed and Series A stages, ensuring active involvement in the growth and development of its investments.
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