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Roundsquare Ventures is a venture capital firm founded in Scottsdale, Arizona, dedicated to supporting entrepreneurs who aim to create innovative solutions for societal challenges. The firm focuses on providing funding and resources to early-stage companies that demonstrate a capacity for sustainable growth and value-added solutions. Founded by Ethan Willis and Josh Simonton, Roundsquare Ventures emphasizes a commitment to backing cause-driven entrepreneurs who challenge the status quo.
Currently, Roundsquare Ventures operates with a portfolio of four companies and typically invests between $100,000 and $1,000,000 in early-stage ventures. The firm’s geographic focus is primarily within the United States, and it seeks to partner with entrepreneurs in sectors such as digital content, online communities, and book publishing. The firm’s approach is characterized by a hands-on involvement in the growth of its portfolio companies, leveraging operational experience and deep industry relationships.
Roundsquare Ventures has made notable strides in the venture capital space, although its recent activity appears limited. The firm’s mission is to create a significant impact across various industries by supporting innovative entrepreneurs who are committed to making a difference.
Roundsquare Ventures invests in innovative, early-stage companies, typically providing funding of up to $1,000,000. The firm is particularly interested in partnering with entrepreneurs who are focused on creating value-added solutions in sectors such as publishing, SaaS, and digital content. The firm’s investment strategy emphasizes a commitment to cause-driven entrepreneurs who challenge conventional thinking and aim to address societal challenges.
Investment stages include pre-seed, seed, and seed-plus (extension), allowing Roundsquare to engage with startups at various points in their development. The firm seeks to identify companies that not only have a strong business model but also demonstrate a potential for sustainable growth and societal impact. Roundsquare Ventures values entrepreneurs who can articulate their vision clearly and show a proven ability to execute their ideas effectively.
In terms of deal structure, Roundsquare Ventures prefers to maintain a significant minority ownership stake in its portfolio companies, ensuring alignment of interests and a collaborative approach to growth. The firm’s geographic focus is primarily on the United States, allowing it to leverage local market knowledge and industry connections.
Roundsquare Ventures holds a portfolio of four notable companies, each contributing to its mission of supporting cause-driven entrepreneurs:
These companies exemplify Roundsquare Ventures' focus on innovative solutions that address societal challenges. Each portfolio company has been selected for its potential to create value and impact within its respective sector.
Ethan Willis: Managing Partner at Roundsquare Ventures, Ethan is a co-founder and chairman of Flow Publishing. He has a background as the former CEO and chairman of Prosper Publishing Holdings and is a co-author of 'The One Minute Entrepreneur' with Ken Blanchard. Ethan has been recognized as an Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year winner, showcasing his expertise in entrepreneurship and publishing.
Josh Simonton: Managing Partner at Roundsquare Ventures, Josh has a diverse background in business development, with experience in real estate, technology, manufacturing, distribution, and healthcare investments. He has been involved with companies such as Vizzda, TrustaFact, and Fun Factory Candy & Novelty Company, demonstrating his extensive investment and operational history.
To pitch Roundsquare Ventures, founders should visit their website at roundsquarevc.com. It is essential to include a comprehensive deck that outlines the business model, market opportunity, and how the startup addresses societal challenges. Roundsquare Ventures prefers to see a clear articulation of the startup's vision and potential for sustainable growth.
While the firm does not specify a formal application process, a well-structured pitch that highlights the unique aspects of the business will be beneficial. Founders should expect a response time that may vary, so patience is advised after submission.
Warm introductions are generally preferred, as they can enhance the likelihood of engagement. Founders are encouraged to leverage their networks to connect with the firm’s partners.
As of the latest updates, Roundsquare Ventures has not made any public investments or announcements since 2015, when they were involved with TrustaFact. The firm’s activity appears to be limited, and founders are advised to verify the current investment status before outreach.
Despite the lack of recent activity, the firm maintains a live website, indicating that it may still be operational. However, potential founders should approach with caution and confirm whether Roundsquare Ventures is actively making new investments.
What are Roundsquare Ventures' investment criteria?
Roundsquare Ventures focuses on early-stage companies that demonstrate a capacity for sustainable growth and value-added solutions. They particularly seek entrepreneurs who are cause-driven and challenge the status quo.
How can I pitch to Roundsquare Ventures?
Founders can pitch Roundsquare Ventures through their website at roundsquarevc.com. It is recommended to include a clear articulation of the business model, market opportunity, and how the startup addresses societal challenges.
What makes Roundsquare Ventures different from other VCs?
Roundsquare Ventures emphasizes a commitment to cause-driven entrepreneurs and focuses on sectors that aim to create societal impact. Their operational experience and industry relationships provide added value to portfolio companies.
What is the typical check size for investments?
Roundsquare Ventures typically invests between $100,000 and $1,000,000 in early-stage companies.
What stages does Roundsquare Ventures invest in?
The firm invests in pre-seed, seed, and seed-plus (extension) stages, allowing them to engage with startups at various points in their development.
What is the geographic focus of Roundsquare Ventures?
Roundsquare Ventures primarily focuses on investments within the United States, leveraging local market knowledge and industry connections.
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