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SNØCAP is a deeptech venture capital firm founded in 2023 by engineers Shrina Kurani, Nate Salpeter, and Jonathan Azoff. The founding partners met in 2015 as co-investors in climate tech startups and have collaborated on various initiatives since then. Based in Seattle, SNØCAP aims to support companies that develop materials, molecules, and machines for modern industry. The firm collaborates with universities, research institutions, and non-profits to identify and support founders who are addressing critical climate challenges.
As a relatively new player in the venture capital space, SNØCAP has launched its first fund with a size of approximately $5 million, targeting up to 20 startups over a deployment horizon of four years. The firm emphasizes a proactive approach to building solutions rather than merely conceptualizing them, focusing on startups that can commercialize intellectual property developed through academic research or self-funded efforts.
SNØCAP invests in deeptech startups that create products which are cheaper or more effective than existing solutions, lower business costs for their customers, and reduce pollution. The firm primarily targets companies in the pre-seed, seed, and seed+ stages, particularly those that have demonstrated corporate interest and can leverage academic partnerships and grant support. Their investment strategy encompasses sectors such as climate, agtech, energy, and healthcare.
The firm seeks startups that are commercializing intellectual property developed through academic research or self-funded efforts. SNØCAP's thesis emphasizes investing where industry begins, focusing on materials, molecules, and machines that improve industrial efficiency while addressing climate challenges. They prioritize companies that can demonstrate a clear path to market and have a strong alignment with sustainability goals.
SNØCAP has established notable partnerships and initiatives that reflect its commitment to climate innovation:
These partnerships enhance SNØCAP's ability to support its portfolio companies through strategic collaborations and access to resources that promote sustainability.
Shrina Kurani - Co-Founder and Managing Partner. She has a background in engineering and has previously held a role as Deputy Director of Venture Capital at California IBank. Her expertise lies in identifying and supporting innovative startups in the climate tech sector.
Nate Salpeter - Co-Founder. An engineer with experience in climate tech investments, Nate brings a technical perspective to the firm’s investment strategy.
Jonathan Azoff - Co-Founder. He has a background as an engineering and tech operator and is an early investor in the 9Zero climate hub, contributing to SNØCAP's focus on climate innovation.
Kelci Zile - Vice President. Kelci joined SNØCAP post-launch and plays a crucial role in managing operations and supporting portfolio companies.
Jackie Moe - Operations Lead. Jackie oversees the operational aspects of the firm, ensuring smooth processes and effective communication within the team.
To pitch SNØCAP, founders should submit their applications through the designated channel on their website at snocap.vc/apply. The pitch deck should include essential information such as the startup's mission, market analysis, product details, and financial projections. SNØCAP prefers concise and clear presentations that effectively communicate the startup's value proposition.
Response times may vary, but founders can expect to hear back within a few weeks after submission. While warm introductions can be beneficial, they are not strictly necessary for consideration.
SNØCAP has initiated a yearly fellowship program that began with Yale University in 2023. This program has since expanded to include partnerships with Stanford, Skidmore, the University of Michigan, and the University of Washington. The fellowship aims to support emerging leaders in climate innovation and foster collaboration between academia and industry.
In 2024, SNØCAP led a $3.2 million seed round investment in Sparxell, a sustainable materials and pigments deeptech startup, alongside Future Communities and Joyance Partners. This investment highlights SNØCAP's commitment to supporting innovative solutions in the climate tech space.
In 2025, SNØCAP made a portfolio investment in Grain, further expanding its presence in the climate tech sector. The firm continues to actively seek new investment opportunities that align with its mission of promoting sustainability.
What investment criteria does SNØCAP use?
SNØCAP focuses on deeptech startups that develop products which are cheaper or more effective than existing solutions, lower business costs, and reduce pollution. They look for companies that can commercialize intellectual property from academic research or self-funded efforts.
How can founders apply or pitch to SNØCAP?
Founders interested in funding can apply through their website at snocap.vc/apply. The application process typically involves submitting a pitch deck that outlines the startup's vision, market potential, and alignment with SNØCAP's investment thesis.
What makes SNØCAP different from other venture capital firms?
SNØCAP emphasizes a proactive approach to building solutions for climate challenges, focusing on deeptech innovations that promote sustainability. Their partnerships with universities and research institutions provide unique access to resources and expertise.
What is SNØCAP's geographic focus?
SNØCAP primarily invests in startups located in North America, specifically within the United States. This geographic focus allows them to leverage local partnerships and networks effectively.
What is the typical check size for investments?
Given the fund size of approximately $5 million and a target of up to 20 startups, SNØCAP's check sizes are likely to range from $100,000 to $500,000 per company, consistent with early-stage funding norms.
What kind of post-investment support does SNØCAP provide?
SNØCAP offers value to its portfolio companies through strategic partnerships, access to grant support, and a network of climate-focused investors and organizations. This support helps startups navigate challenges and scale effectively.
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