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SKY VC is an early-stage venture capital firm founded in 2016 as JetBlue's corporate venture capital arm. Based in the United States, the firm focuses on investing in technologies that are transforming the travel and transportation sectors. In May 2025, SKY VC was spun out and acquired by SKY Leasing, an aviation asset manager, which expanded its capabilities and network. Since its inception, SKY VC has invested in over 55 startups and achieved multiple successful exits, including notable companies like Joby Aviation and Shape Security.
The firm operates independently while maintaining a strategic partnership with JetBlue, allowing it to leverage insights and opportunities within the aviation industry. SKY VC's investment strategy emphasizes both U.S.-based and global startups, aiming to modernize legacy infrastructure and support innovations that will shape future mobility.
SKY VC invests in early-stage companies developing enterprise and frontier technologies that can transform travel and transportation. The firm typically invests at the Seed and Series A stages, seeking to modernize legacy infrastructure while supporting innovations that will shape future mobility. Its investment strategy includes a focus on both U.S.-based and global startups.
SKY VC's thesis centers on powering the future of travel and transportation through enterprise solutions and frontier innovations, including next-generation connectivity, automation, robotics, and quantum computing applications. The firm looks for founders who demonstrate a strong vision and capability to execute their ideas, particularly in sectors that align with their focus on modernizing travel and transportation.
SKY VC has a diverse portfolio of over 55 companies, with notable investments including:
These companies represent a mix of innovative solutions aimed at enhancing travel efficiency and sustainability.
Amy Burr - CEO: Amy has a background in venture capital and technology, having previously led initiatives at JetBlue Ventures. She focuses on strategic partnerships and growth opportunities for portfolio companies.
Arielle Ring - President: Arielle brings extensive experience in investment management and operational strategy, contributing to the firm's overall direction and investment decisions.
Stephen Snyder - Managing Director, Head of Operations & Partnerships: Stephen oversees operational strategies and partnerships, leveraging his expertise to enhance portfolio company growth.
Ryan Chou - Managing Director, Head of Investments: Ryan leads the investment strategy at SKY VC, focusing on identifying and evaluating potential investment opportunities in the travel and transportation sectors.
To pitch to SKY VC, founders should visit their contact page at SKY VC's contact page. The firm prefers direct communication through their website for initial outreach. Founders should include a concise overview of their business, the problem they are solving, and their unique value proposition in their pitch deck.
While specific response time expectations are not disclosed, founders can anticipate a timely review process. Warm introductions are beneficial but not required for initial contact.
In May 2025, JetBlue sold its corporate venture capital arm, leading to the rebranding of JetBlue Ventures to SKY VC. This acquisition by SKY Leasing has allowed the firm to operate independently while maintaining a strategic partnership with JetBlue.
Since its inception, SKY VC has backed over 55 startups and made more than 40 follow-on investments, achieving 8 successful exits, including the notable IPO of Joby Aviation.
What are SKY VC's investment criteria?
SKY VC focuses on early-stage companies at the Seed and Series A stages, particularly those developing enterprise and frontier technologies that can transform travel and transportation. The firm seeks startups that modernize legacy infrastructure and support innovations shaping future mobility.
How can I apply or pitch to SKY VC?
Founders can pitch to SKY VC by visiting their contact page at SKY VC's contact page. The firm encourages direct communication through their website for pitches and applications.
What makes SKY VC different from other venture capital firms?
SKY VC differentiates itself through its strategic partnership with JetBlue and its focus on the travel and transportation sectors. The firm provides deep strategic value by offering access to a global network of aviation operators, facilitating commercial pilots, and leveraging its partnership with SKY Leasing.
What is the geographic scope of SKY VC's investments?
SKY VC invests in both U.S.-based and global startups, emphasizing technologies that can be applied across various markets in the travel and transportation sectors.
What is the typical check size for investments?
While specific check sizes are not disclosed, SKY VC typically invests at the Seed and Series A stages, which generally range from hundreds of thousands to several million dollars, depending on the startup's needs and potential.
What is SKY VC's post-investment involvement like?
SKY VC actively supports its portfolio companies by providing access to its extensive network, facilitating introductions to potential partners and customers, and offering strategic guidance to enhance growth opportunities.
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