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The 98 is an early-stage venture capital firm founded in 2022 by Lynda Clarizio and Joy Marcus. Based in the United States, it focuses on technology businesses led by women. The firm addresses the disparity in venture capital funding, where women-led startups receive only 2% of total funding despite higher returns.
The 98 invests in pre-seed to seed+ stage technology businesses across sectors such as commerce, media, healthcare, fintech, and legaltech. Check sizes are not specified, but the firm emphasizes providing capital, operational expertise, and network resources to support women founders in building successful companies.
Notable portfolio companies include HUMANITRU, co-founded by Lindsey Chrismon and Gabe Chrismon; ASKPOLLY, founded by Erin Kelly and Kenton White; STRELLA, founded by Katherine Sizov; CAMBRI, co-founded by Heli Holttinen and Ben Harknett; PRIVATE AI, co-founded by Patricia Thaine and Pieter Luitjens; STRATYFY, co-founded by Laura Kornhauser and Dmitry Lesnik; THE VENDRY, founded by Daphne Hoppenot; and PALADIN, co-founded by Kristen Sonday.
Submit your pitch through their form at the98.com.
The 98 typically participates in early-stage rounds and may lead investments depending on the opportunity and alignment with their mission.
The firm is open to follow-on investments to support portfolio companies as they grow, particularly if they continue to align with their focus on women-led businesses.
The specific size of The 98's current fund is not disclosed, but it is focused on early-stage investments in technology sectors.
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