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Startup Capital Ventures (SCV) is an early-stage venture capital firm founded in 2005 and headquartered in Menlo Park, California, with an additional office in Honolulu, Hawaiʻi. The firm specializes in investing in capital-efficient B2B technology companies that have demonstrated proof of first revenue. SCV operates the SCV x SBI Fund, a partnership with SBI Holdings USA, which enhances its investment capabilities and access to corporate partners.
Over the years, SCV has focused on sectors such as FinTech, Cloud/SaaS, Cybersecurity, Healthcare IT, and IoT. The firm has built a reputation for backing startups that are poised for growth and have a clear path to market. With a team of experienced professionals, SCV emphasizes a collaborative approach to funding, often co-investing with other leading funds during the Series Seed and Series A rounds.
As of now, SCV manages a portfolio that includes notable companies like PlayFab and HealthCrowd, which have achieved successful exits. The firm’s strategic guidance and extensive network provide significant value to its portfolio companies, positioning them for success in competitive markets.
Startup Capital Ventures invests primarily in early-stage B2B technology companies across several sectors, including FinTech, Cloud/SaaS, Cybersecurity, Healthcare IT, and IoT. The firm typically invests between $750,000 and $1 million in initial funding, with reserves allocated for future funding rounds. This investment strategy allows SCV to support startups through their critical growth phases, particularly during the seed and Series A stages.
SCV emphasizes a high-conviction investment model, focusing on companies that have demonstrated traction or indications of product-market fit. The firm often collaborates with other leading funds, co-investing during the Series Seed and Series A rounds to enhance the support provided to portfolio companies. This collaborative approach not only diversifies risk but also leverages the expertise and resources of multiple investors.
In addition to financial backing, SCV seeks to add value through strategic guidance and governance involvement, including board seats. The firm’s partnership with SBI Holdings further extends its reach, connecting portfolio companies with Japanese corporate partners and resources, which can be crucial for scaling operations and market entry.
Startup Capital Ventures has built a diverse portfolio of companies that exemplify its focus on capital-efficient B2B technology. Notable portfolio companies include:
In addition to these, SCV has invested in other promising startups such as Sila, Brightflow, Layr, Shifted Energy, and SELF, which further illustrate its commitment to sectors like FinTech and Deep Tech. The firm’s portfolio reflects a strategic focus on companies that are not only innovative but also have a clear path to profitability and market leadership.
Thomas Toy (Managing Director) has over 30 years of venture capital experience, including extensive public company board service. He has invested in notable companies such as UTStarcom and SunPower. Toy holds a BA and MBA from Northwestern University and has taught New Venture Finance at San Francisco State University.
Donavan Kealoha (Managing Director, SCV x SBI Fund) previously served as Director with SCV Fund II and co-founded Adama Materials. He is a licensed attorney and holds a BA and JD/MBA from the University of Hawaii at Manoa.
Seokjun Ko (Managing Director, SCV x SBI Fund) heads the Silicon Valley office at SBI Holdings USA, overseeing early-stage venture investments. He has served as a board director at Amartha and Ralali.com.
Laura Mather (Co-founder, Silver Tail Systems) has praised SCV for their support and strategic insights during her company's growth.
James Gwertzman (CEO, PlayFab) has highlighted the thoughtful perspective SCV brought to their board, emphasizing their commitment to the success of their portfolio companies.
Bing Doh (CEO, HealthCrowd) appreciates the ongoing support and perspective provided by Tom Toy during challenging times.
To pitch Startup Capital Ventures, founders should send their pitch deck directly to startups@scv-sbi.com. The pitch should include essential details about the business model, market opportunity, traction, and team. SCV does not require a formal application form, and the decision timeline is typically rolling.
While there is no specific deadline for submissions, founders should expect a response within a reasonable timeframe. Warm introductions are preferred, as they can significantly improve the chances of getting noticed by the investment team.
In recent months, Startup Capital Ventures has continued to expand its portfolio, focusing on capital-efficient B2B technology companies. The firm has made several investments in the FinTech sector, including backing companies like Sila and Brightflow, which are gaining traction in their respective markets.
Additionally, SCV has been actively involved in supporting its portfolio companies through strategic guidance and governance. The firm's partnership with SBI Holdings has facilitated connections with Japanese corporate partners, enhancing opportunities for growth and collaboration.
What are Startup Capital Ventures' investment criteria?
Startup Capital Ventures focuses on early-stage B2B technology companies that have demonstrated proof of first revenue. They look for startups in sectors such as FinTech, Cloud/SaaS, Cybersecurity, Healthcare IT, and IoT.
How can I pitch to Startup Capital Ventures?
Founders can pitch their startups by emailing their pitch deck to startups@scv-sbi.com. It is recommended to include key information about the business model, market opportunity, and traction.
What makes Startup Capital Ventures different from other VCs?
SCV differentiates itself through its high-conviction investment model, focusing on a select few investments per fund cycle. The firm conducts in-depth research before committing and takes an active role in governance, including board seats.
What is the typical check size for investments?
Startup Capital Ventures typically invests between $750,000 and $1 million in initial funding, with reserves for follow-on investments in future rounds.
What geographic areas does Startup Capital Ventures focus on?
SCV primarily invests in North America and Asia, with a strong emphasis on Silicon Valley and selective investments in Hawaii, Texas, and Oklahoma.
What kind of support do portfolio companies receive post-investment?
SCV provides strategic guidance, leverages its extensive network for introductions, and takes an active role in governance, including board involvement, to support portfolio companies in their growth journey.
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