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The 81 Collection is a venture capital organization founded in 2021 by entrepreneurs with extensive experience in hard industries. Based in Chicago, Illinois, the firm addresses the significant funding gap faced by traditional trades and industries compared to softer sectors. The organization has launched its inaugural fund, which totals $41 million, to invest in early-stage companies that operate in capital-intensive blue-collar industries.
With a focus on sectors that represent 81% of the U.S. GDP, The 81 Collection aims to transform industries characterized as 'boring,' 'hard work,' and 'unpleasant spaces.' The firm has a portfolio that includes notable founders and companies, and it emphasizes the need for technology and innovation to solve critical problems within these sectors. The total value created by its portfolio companies is estimated at $60 billion, with approximately 30,000 employees across these businesses.
The 81 Collection targets early-stage companies in sectors that have historically been overlooked by early-stage capital. Their investment strategy encompasses several key areas: low-margin industries such as recycling and nursing homes, capital-intensive blue-collar industries, and systemic barriers that prevent access to opportunities. The firm invests in companies that improve physical work environments and address housing affordability, emphasizing the need for modernization and innovation.
Investment stages range from pre-seed to growth equity, with check sizes between $200,000 and $1 million. The firm primarily focuses on the United States, seeking to drive innovation in hard industries that represent a significant portion of the U.S. economy. The 81 Collection's thesis highlights the importance of investing in the 81% of U.S. GDP that is starved for innovation, making it a unique player in the venture capital landscape.
The 81 Collection's portfolio features a diverse array of companies and founders, showcasing its commitment to investing in hard industries. Notable individuals include:
Recent investments include Uptiv Health, a company redefining infusion care across geographies. The firm emphasizes its role in supporting businesses that operate in sectors characterized as 'boring' and 'hard work,' aiming to drive innovation and modernization in these areas.
Vijen Patel: General Partner and founder of Pressbox, with a background in leading companies in hard industries.
Mike Evans: Co-Founder, known for his role in GrubHub and Fixer, bringing extensive experience in the food and logistics sectors.
Luke Saunders: Founder and CEO of Farmers Fridge, focusing on innovative solutions in the food industry.
Dhruv Saxena: Co-Founder of ShipBob, with expertise in logistics and supply chain management.
Divey Gulati: Co-Founder of ShipBob, contributing to advancements in e-commerce logistics.
Anna Levine: COO of Industrious, with a focus on operational excellence in the coworking space.
To pitch The 81 Collection, founders should visit their website at 81collection.com. The firm prefers pitches that include a clear business model, market analysis, and a demonstration of how the company addresses systemic barriers in hard industries. Response times may vary, but founders are encouraged to provide a concise and compelling deck to capture the firm's interest.
In December 2022, The 81 Collection launched its inaugural fund, totaling $41 million, aimed at investing in hard industries. Recently, the firm invested in Uptiv Health, a company that is redefining infusion care across geographies. Vijen Patel has also made a public appearance discussing the importance of investing in 'boring industries' and how they can drive significant economic growth.
What are The 81 Collection's investment criteria?
The 81 Collection invests in early-stage companies within hard industries that have been historically overlooked by venture capital. They focus on sectors such as healthcare and logistics, particularly in low-margin industries like recycling and nursing homes.
How can I apply or pitch to The 81 Collection?
Founders interested in pitching to The 81 Collection can visit their website at 81collection.com for more information on the application process.
What makes The 81 Collection different from other venture capital firms?
The 81 Collection targets the 81% of U.S. GDP that is starved for innovation, focusing on hard industries that have been largely excluded from the digital revolution. This counter-thesis to typical VC investments allows them to tap into sectors with significant potential for growth.
What is the geographic scope of The 81 Collection's investments?
The firm primarily invests in the United States, focusing on capital-intensive blue-collar industries that represent a significant portion of the economy.
What is the typical fund size and check size for investments?
The 81 Collection's inaugural fund totals $41 million, with check sizes ranging from $200,000 to $1 million for each investment.
What kind of post-investment involvement does The 81 Collection have?
The firm adds value to its portfolio companies by leveraging the extensive experience of its founders and team members in hard industries. They provide strategic guidance, operational support, and access to a network of industry contacts to help drive growth and innovation.
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