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Run Ventures is a venture capital firm founded in 2025 and based in Salt Lake City, Utah. The firm was established by Brandon Tidwell and Ben Dahl, both veterans of Signal Peak Ventures, with a mission to invest in technology companies led by ambitious entrepreneurs tackling significant challenges. Run Ventures has successfully closed a $290 million debut fund, which focuses on leading Series A rounds while selectively participating in seed investments.
The firm emphasizes a non-coastal investment strategy, targeting high-growth ecosystems in cities such as Austin, Denver, and Atlanta. This approach allows Run Ventures to support founders outside traditional tech hubs like Silicon Valley and New York City. Currently, Run Ventures manages a portfolio of 45 companies, reflecting its commitment to fostering innovation in diverse markets.
Run Ventures primarily invests in early-stage technology companies, with a strong emphasis on leading Series A rounds. The firm selectively participates in seed rounds, focusing on sectors such as artificial intelligence (AI), fintech, SaaS, and healthcare. Their investment strategy is centered around partnering with ambitious entrepreneurs who are addressing previously intractable problems, particularly in transformative technology sectors.
The firm typically writes checks ranging from $1 million to $10 million, allowing for significant support in the growth phases of its portfolio companies. Run Ventures seeks to provide hands-on operational support, acting as running partners to founders and leveraging their industry connections to help navigate challenges and accelerate growth.
Run Ventures has built a diverse portfolio of 45 companies, showcasing its commitment to technology and innovation. Notable portfolio companies include:
Brandon Tidwell: General Partner and Co-Founder, previously co-invested at Signal Peak Ventures. He brings extensive experience in venture capital and a strong network in the tech industry.
Ben Dahl: General Partner and Co-Founder, also a former co-investor at Signal Peak Ventures. He has a background in technology investments and a focus on operational support for portfolio companies.
Scott Petty: GP & Senior Advisor, providing strategic guidance and insights based on his extensive experience in the venture capital space.
Phil Williams: Partner, contributing to investment decisions and portfolio management with a focus on technology sectors.
Porntepp Ungivchian: Partner, involved in sourcing deals and supporting portfolio companies with operational challenges.
Mahmood Ibrahim: Partner, specializing in investor relations and maintaining relationships with limited partners.
Travis Heath: Administrative Partner & CFO, overseeing financial operations and fund management.
Barrett Edgington: Principal, focusing on deal sourcing and due diligence for potential investments.
Gabriela Porras: Senior Associate, assisting in portfolio management and analysis of investment opportunities.
Kathryn Ivancovich: Analyst, supporting the investment team with research and market analysis.
Adam Eliason: Controller, managing the financial reporting and compliance aspects of the firm.
To pitch Run Ventures, founders should submit their proposals through the firm’s website at run.vc. The pitch deck should include key information such as the business model, market analysis, and team qualifications. It is recommended to keep the presentation concise and focused on the value proposition.
Run Ventures prefers warm introductions but will consider direct submissions through their online portal. Founders can expect a response within a few weeks, depending on the volume of inquiries.
In September 2025, Run Ventures launched its debut fund, closing at $290 million. This fund is focused on leading Series A investments in technology companies, particularly in AI and transformative sectors.
Run Ventures has been actively building its portfolio, with a notable emphasis on companies that align with its investment thesis. Recent investments include notable companies such as 401GO, Authenticx, and Bark, which have shown significant growth potential in their respective markets.
The firm continues to expand its presence in non-coastal markets, reinforcing its commitment to supporting ambitious entrepreneurs outside traditional tech hubs.
What are Run Ventures' investment criteria?
Run Ventures focuses on early-stage technology companies, particularly in AI, fintech, SaaS, and healthcare. They prefer to lead Series A rounds but will selectively participate in seed investments. The firm seeks ambitious entrepreneurs who are solving significant challenges.
How can I pitch to Run Ventures?
Founders can pitch Run Ventures through their website at run.vc. It is advisable to include a clear overview of the business model, market opportunity, and team background in the pitch deck.
What makes Run Ventures different from other VCs?
Run Ventures distinguishes itself by adopting a hands-on, operational approach, acting as running partners to founders. This model allows them to provide tailored support and leverage their industry connections effectively.
What is the geographic focus of Run Ventures?
The firm targets high-growth ecosystems outside traditional coastal markets, focusing on cities like Austin, Denver, and Atlanta. This non-coastal strategy enables them to discover and support innovative startups in emerging markets.
What is the typical check size for investments?
Run Ventures typically invests between $1 million and $10 million in their portfolio companies, providing substantial capital to support growth and development.
What kind of post-investment involvement can founders expect?
Founders can expect a deeply engaged partnership with Run Ventures, as the firm takes an active role in supporting their portfolio companies through operational guidance and strategic advice.
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