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Founded in 2017, Sputnik ATX VC is an early-stage venture capital firm located in Austin, Texas. The firm was established by Dr. Oksana Malysheva and Joe Merrill with the mission to identify and support overlooked talent within the startup ecosystem. Sputnik ATX operates an accelerator program that provides funding, training, and mentorship to startups, emphasizing a unique zero-fee model that aligns the firm’s interests with those of the founders.
Currently, Sputnik ATX manages a fund size of $10 million and has invested in over 50 companies across various sectors. The firm has gained recognition for its commitment to supporting diverse founders and innovative startups. Its accelerator program lasts 13 weeks, during which selected startups receive initial funding of $100,000 via a SAFE note, with the potential for additional funding. The firm’s office is located at 301 Congress Suite 2200, Austin, TX 78701.
Sputnik ATX VC specializes in investing in early-stage startups, particularly those led by 'maker-founders' who have developed a minimum viable product and secured at least one customer. The firm’s investment strategy encompasses a range of sectors, including fintech, SaaS, and consumer products, while explicitly excluding industries such as weapons, alcohol, and multi-level marketing.
The firm typically invests between $100,000 and $500,000 in each startup, with an initial investment of $100,000 provided through a SAFE note. The accelerator program, which spans 13 weeks, includes comprehensive training on sales and traction building, equipping founders with essential skills to scale their businesses. Sputnik ATX VC seeks to create consumer surplus and values innovative ideas that address real-world problems.
Sputnik ATX VC has built a diverse portfolio of over 50 companies, showcasing its commitment to various sectors. Notable portfolio companies include:
Dr. Oksana Malysheva and Joe Merrill co-founded Sputnik ATX VC in 2017. They bring a wealth of experience in supporting early-stage startups and have established a reputation for their zero-fee model and commitment to overlooked talent.
To pitch to Sputnik ATX VC, founders should submit their application through the firm’s website at sputnikatx.com. The pitch deck should include key information such as the business model, market opportunity, team background, and traction metrics. Founders are encouraged to highlight their unique value proposition and how their startup aligns with the firm’s focus on maker-founders.
Response times can vary, but founders should expect to hear back within a few weeks after submission. The firm prefers warm introductions, but cold pitches are also accepted through the website.
Sputnik ATX VC runs an accelerator program designed to support early-stage startups. This program lasts for 13 weeks and includes funding, training, and mentorship. Startups selected for the program receive an initial investment of $100,000 via a SAFE note, with options for additional funding available.
The accelerator focuses on training founders in sales and traction building, providing them with the necessary tools to grow their businesses effectively. Interested startups can apply through the firm’s website.
In February 2023, Sputnik ATX VC announced its latest cohort, Cohort XI, which continues its tradition of supporting early-stage startups through its accelerator program. Each selected startup receives an initial investment of $100,000 via a SAFE note, with the potential for additional funding.
In August 2022, the firm celebrated the launch of Cohort X, further expanding its portfolio and reinforcing its commitment to overlooked talent in the startup ecosystem. Since its founding, Sputnik ATX VC has conducted over 11 cohorts, with more than 4,000 startups applying, highlighting the firm’s selectivity and the high demand for its accelerator program.
What are the investment criteria for Sputnik ATX VC?
Sputnik ATX VC invests in early-stage startups led by maker-founders who have a minimum viable product and at least one customer. The firm focuses on sectors such as fintech, SaaS, and consumer products, while avoiding industries like weapons and alcohol.
How can startups apply or pitch to Sputnik ATX VC?
Startups can apply through the firm’s website at sputnikatx.com. The application process typically involves submitting a pitch deck that outlines the business model, market opportunity, and team background.
What makes Sputnik ATX VC different from other venture capital firms?
The firm operates a unique zero-fee model, meaning it does not charge management fees. Instead, its economic relationship is solely as an investor, aligning its interests with those of the founders.
What is the geographic scope of Sputnik ATX VC?
Sputnik ATX VC primarily invests in startups based in the United States, particularly those that participate in its accelerator program located in Austin, Texas.
What kind of support do portfolio companies receive post-investment?
Portfolio companies benefit from a comprehensive 13-week accelerator program that includes mentorship from experienced partners, training on sales and traction building, and access to a network of investors and industry experts.
What is the typical check size for investments?
Sputnik ATX VC typically invests between $100,000 and $500,000 in each startup, with an initial investment of $100,000 provided via a SAFE note and options for additional funding.
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