Discover if this is a suitable investor for your startup. If they are we'll make a warm introduction for free. Otherwise, we'll connect you with matching investors.
Founded in 2021, rpv is a deep tech venture fund with a focus on early-stage, scientifically intensive ventures. The fund operates globally, with headquarters commonly listed in San Francisco and additional presence in Seattle. rpv was established to advance human well-being by providing capital, networks, and expertise to scientists, entrepreneurs, and investors. The organization emphasizes a value system that prioritizes rigorous scientific methods and ethical standards.
As of now, rpv manages approximately $50 million in assets under management (AUM) and has made over 16 investments. The fund's structure allows for a ticket size ranging from $250,000 to $1.5 million, with a reserve allocation of over $10 million for follow-on investments. The firm is known for its commitment to supporting projects that have the potential for significant impact, particularly in sectors such as neuroscience, new energy, lasers, additive manufacturing, and advanced materials.
rpv targets early-stage investments in the deep tech sector, specifically in areas such as Neuroscience, New Energy, Lasers, Additive Manufacturing, and Advanced Materials. The fund seeks to support scientifically intensive projects that can create significant value and enhance human well-being. Investment stages include pre-seed, seed, and seed-plus, allowing rpv to engage with startups at various points in their development.
The organization employs a scientist-led diligence approach, utilizing an international scientific advisory board for each focus area. This structure blends capital with technical expertise and a robust network, ensuring that investments are grounded in rigorous scientific methods. rpv looks for founders who demonstrate a strong commitment to ethical standards and possess a deep understanding of their respective fields.
rpv's portfolio features a range of innovative companies that are making strides in deep tech. Notable portfolio companies include:
These companies exemplify rpv's commitment to investing in projects that leverage scientific advancements to address pressing challenges in healthcare, energy, and technology.
Arkady Kulik - Founder, General Partner. Arkady holds a master's degree in physics and an MBA from INSEAD. He is the public-facing personality of the fund and frequently appears on podcasts discussing deep tech and venture capital.
Richard Silberstein - Venture Partner, Neuroscience. Richard is a pioneering neuroscientist with extensive experience in the field, contributing valuable insights to rpv's investment strategy.
Paul Kewene-Hite - Venture Partner, Entrepreneurship. Paul brings a wealth of entrepreneurial experience, helping to guide startups through their growth phases.
Serguei Netessinne - Venture Partner, Innovations. Serguei focuses on identifying and supporting innovative projects within the deep tech sector.
Andrei Yarantsau - Venture Partner, Europe. Andrei oversees rpv's European investments, leveraging his regional expertise to identify promising startups.
Sami Kizilbash - Venture Partner, Venture Building. Sami specializes in helping startups build their operational frameworks and scale effectively.
Dave McClure - Advisor, Venture Capital. Dave provides strategic advice based on his extensive experience in the venture capital industry.
Edward Jung - Advisor, Innovation, IP. Edward focuses on intellectual property and innovation strategies for portfolio companies.
Eric Redmond - Advisor, Corporate. Eric offers corporate strategy insights to help startups navigate business challenges.
David Abashidze - Advisor, Finance. David provides financial guidance and support to portfolio companies.
Alexa Fedyukova - Advisor, CVC. Alexa specializes in corporate venture capital strategies.
Alex Felman - Advisor, Family Offices. Alex connects rpv with family office investors.
Pete Jarvis - Advisor, Legal. Pete offers legal advice to ensure compliance and protect portfolio interests.
Chris Tolles - Advisor, Management. Chris provides management consulting to enhance operational efficiency.
Mykhailo Marynenko - Advisor, Engineering. Mykhailo offers engineering insights to support technical development.
Vasiliy Fadeev - Head of AI Lab. Vasiliy leads rpv's AI initiatives, focusing on integrating artificial intelligence into portfolio projects.
To pitch rpv, founders should send an email to hello@rpv.global. It is important to include a comprehensive pitch deck that outlines the scientific foundation of the project, the team’s qualifications, and the market opportunity. rpv prefers detailed presentations that highlight the potential impact of the technology and the ethical considerations involved.
Response times can vary, but founders can generally expect to hear back within a few weeks. Warm introductions are beneficial but not strictly necessary. rpv values direct communication and encourages founders to reach out with their proposals.
In September 2025, rpv announced its latest investment in Intactis Bio, marking a continued commitment to supporting innovative deep tech ventures. This investment aligns with rpv's focus on scientifically intensive projects that have the potential for significant impact.
Earlier in June 2025, rpv's portfolio company Sanmai received backing from notable investor Reid Hoffman, highlighting the growing interest in the company's non-invasive ultrasound neurotherapeutics for mental health.
rpv has maintained an active presence in the startup ecosystem, frequently promoting its mission and portfolio through various channels, including podcasts and media appearances by its founder, Arkady Kulik.
What are rpv's investment criteria?
rpv focuses on early-stage, scientifically intensive ventures in sectors such as neuroscience, new energy, lasers, additive manufacturing, and advanced materials. The fund seeks projects that have the potential for significant impact and align with its rigorous scientific and ethical standards.
How can I pitch to rpv?
Founders can reach out to rpv via email at hello@rpv.global. It is advisable to include a detailed pitch deck that outlines the scientific basis of the project, market potential, and the team’s expertise.
What makes rpv different from other venture funds?
rpv emphasizes a scientist-led diligence process and operates with a strong ethical framework. The fund's focus on scientifically intensive projects sets it apart from traditional venture capital firms.
What is the typical check size for investments?
rpv typically invests between $250,000 and $1.5 million in early-stage ventures, allowing for flexibility in supporting startups at various stages of development.
What is rpv's geographic focus?
rpv operates on a global scale, seeking impactful projects from around the world, particularly in the deep tech sector.
What kind of post-investment support does rpv provide?
rpv offers access to a network of experts and resources, along with potential follow-on investments to support portfolio companies as they grow.
All trademarks, logos and brand names are the property of their respective owners. All company, product and service names used in this website are for identification purposes only. Use of these names, trademarks, and brands does not imply endorsement.