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River Wise Ventures is a self-funded search fund based in Durham, North Carolina, founded by Gavin Jocius. The firm specializes in acquiring companies with annual sales between $1.5 million and $20 million, primarily targeting businesses in the Carolinas and Virginia. River Wise Ventures operates with a hybrid model that integrates M&A activities with venture capital investments, allowing it to engage with both established companies and early-stage startups.
Incorporated in North Carolina, River Wise Ventures has a team with over 50 years of combined experience in various sectors, including manufacturing, software, and IT. The firm has a notable track record, with its team involved in M&A transactions exceeding $1 billion in total value. Currently, River Wise Ventures manages a portfolio of two companies and continues to seek new investment opportunities across North America.
River Wise Ventures invests in companies across North America, with a particular emphasis on the Southeast United States. The firm targets both established businesses and disruptive startups, focusing on sectors such as manufacturing, software, and IT. Investment stages range from Seed to Series B and Growth Equity, with check sizes typically between $1 million and $20 million.
The firm seeks to partner with experienced and technical teams that are addressing complex problems. River Wise Ventures emphasizes the use of emerging technologies and lean manufacturing principles to enhance the value of its portfolio companies. This dual approach allows the firm to leverage its industry expertise while fostering innovation in its investments.
River Wise Ventures has made notable investments in the following companies:
These investments reflect River Wise Ventures' strategy of supporting companies that leverage technology to solve complex challenges in their respective industries.
Gavin Jocius: Founder & Principal of River Wise Ventures, Gavin has over 16 years of experience in IT and eCommerce. He led the sale of CafePress Art division to Circle Graphics for over $32 million.
Andrew Widmark: Advisor at River Wise Ventures, Andrew is the co-CEO of New Wave Surgical, which was sold to Covidien for over $100 million. He also serves as Chairman/CEO of Mark Properties.
Joe Velk: Advisor with over 25 years of experience in IT investment, Joe is the CEO of ShiftWizard and has been involved with over 50 companies.
Ari Medoff: Advisor and CEO of Arosa+LivHOME, Ari holds an MBA and MPP from Harvard and brings significant operational expertise to the firm.
Jordan Jocius: Startup Advisor and Director at Founder Institute Waterloo, Jordan has experience working with 20-25 tech companies annually, providing valuable insights to portfolio founders.
To pitch River Wise Ventures, founders should visit their website at riverwise.net. The firm prefers detailed pitch decks that include information on the business model, market analysis, and financial projections. A warm introduction is beneficial but not mandatory. Response times may vary, but founders can expect to hear back within a few weeks after submission.
In recent months, River Wise Ventures has continued to focus on expanding its portfolio. The firm has made significant investments in early-stage startups, particularly in the technology sector. Notably, they have been actively seeking opportunities in the Carolinas and Virginia, aligning with their investment strategy.
Additionally, River Wise Ventures has been recognized for its successful exit with New Wave Surgical, which was acquired by Covidien, highlighting the firm's ability to identify and nurture high-potential companies.
What are River Wise Ventures' investment criteria?
River Wise Ventures focuses on acquiring companies with annual sales between $1.5 million and $20 million, primarily in the Carolinas and Virginia. They also invest in early-stage disruptive startups across North America.
How can I pitch to River Wise Ventures?
Founders can submit their pitches through the firm's website at riverwise.net. It is recommended to include a detailed business plan and financial projections in the pitch deck.
What makes River Wise Ventures different from other investors?
The firm combines M&A activities with venture capital investments, allowing it to engage with both established companies and innovative startups. Their focus on technical teams addressing complex problems sets them apart.
What is the geographic scope of River Wise Ventures?
River Wise Ventures primarily operates in the Southeast United States, specifically targeting companies in the Carolinas and Virginia, while also considering disruptive startups across North America.
What is the typical check size for investments?
River Wise Ventures typically invests between $1 million and $20 million in its portfolio companies, depending on the stage and potential of the business.
What kind of support do portfolio companies receive?
River Wise Ventures provides strategic guidance and operational improvements to enhance enterprise value, leveraging the team's extensive industry experience in manufacturing, software, and IT.
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