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SmoothBrain is a venture capital and private equity firm based in Deer Park, Illinois, part of the Chicago metropolitan area. Founded in the summer of 2022 by Nick Mirchef and Chris Pflanz, the firm focuses on funding and consulting for startups in the emerging technology sector. SmoothBrain has funded 10 companies since its inception, demonstrating a consistent investment pace of approximately 4-5 companies per year.
The firm operates as a hybrid VC/PE structure, primarily investing in Series A rounds while also participating in Seed and Seed+ (Extension) stages. SmoothBrain's capital is likely sourced from the founders' previous successful ventures, particularly the exit from SmartWitness, which provided a reported return of around $200 million for Mirchef. This background informs their approach to supporting startups with both financial resources and operational expertise.
SmoothBrain primarily invests in emerging technology startups, focusing on sectors such as SaaS, industrial goods, enterprise applications, enterprise infrastructure, big data, analytics, and business productivity software. The firm typically participates in Series A rounds, with check sizes ranging from $500,000 to $2 million. This investment strategy emphasizes not only financial backing but also operator-led consulting, which provides startups with valuable insights and guidance from experienced entrepreneurs.
The firm seeks to partner with founders who are looking for more than just capital; they value strategic capital that can help navigate the complexities of scaling a business in competitive markets. SmoothBrain's geographic focus is on the United States, aligning with its commitment to supporting local startups in the tech sector.
SmoothBrain has built a diverse portfolio of 10 companies since its founding. Notable investments include:
This portfolio reflects SmoothBrain's commitment to investing in innovative companies that are shaping the future of technology.
Nick Mirchef - Co-Founder. Nick is a Bulgaria-born, Chicago-based serial entrepreneur with a background in fleet liability and telematics. He co-founded SmartWitness in 2012, which was acquired by Sensata Technologies in May 2022, yielding a reported return of approximately $200 million. His experience in the tech sector informs SmoothBrain's investment strategy.
Chris Pflanz - Co-Founder / Partner. Chris co-founded SmartWitness alongside Nick Mirchef and transitioned to SmoothBrain following the acquisition by Sensata. His expertise in operational management and technology startups complements the firm's focus on providing strategic consulting to portfolio companies.
To pitch SmoothBrain, founders should visit their website at smoothbrain.com. It is recommended to include a comprehensive business plan in the pitch deck, detailing the startup's vision, market opportunity, and how SmoothBrain's operational expertise can add value. Founders should expect a response time of a few weeks, and warm introductions through mutual connections in the Chicago tech ecosystem can enhance the chances of engagement.
As of April 2026, SmoothBrain has actively funded 10 companies since its inception in 2022. Notable recent activity includes participation in the $6 million Series A round for Stamus Networks in August 2023, alongside First Analysis. This investment highlights SmoothBrain's commitment to supporting innovative companies in the enterprise network security sector.
There have been no reported exits from SmoothBrain's portfolio as of now, indicating that the firm is still in the early stages of its investment cycle. The firm continues to focus on building its portfolio and providing operational support to its startups.
What are SmoothBrain's investment criteria?
SmoothBrain primarily invests in emerging technology startups at the Seed, Seed+, and Series A stages. They focus on sectors such as SaaS, industrial goods, enterprise applications, and business productivity software. The firm typically writes checks ranging from $500,000 to $2 million.
How can I pitch SmoothBrain?
Founders can pitch SmoothBrain through their website at smoothbrain.com. It is advisable to include a detailed business plan and highlight the strategic value of the partnership.
What makes SmoothBrain different from other investors?
SmoothBrain combines venture capital with operator-led consulting, providing startups with not only financial support but also valuable operational insights from experienced entrepreneurs. This dual approach helps startups navigate challenges effectively.
What is SmoothBrain's geographic focus?
The firm focuses on startups based in the United States, aligning with its commitment to supporting local innovation in the tech sector.
What is the typical post-investment involvement of SmoothBrain?
SmoothBrain engages in strategic consulting and operational support for its portfolio companies, leveraging the founders' backgrounds as successful entrepreneurs to help startups scale effectively.
What is the size of SmoothBrain's fund?
While SmoothBrain has not publicly disclosed a specific fund size, their check sizes typically range from $500,000 to $2 million, indicating a focus on disciplined co-investing rather than leading rounds.
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