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Tusk Venture Partners is a venture capital firm based in New York City, founded in 2016 by Bradley Tusk and Jordan Nof. The firm specializes in investing in early-stage technology companies that operate in highly regulated markets. Tusk Venture Partners has established itself as a pioneer in this niche, focusing on turning regulatory and political risks into competitive advantages for its portfolio companies.
As of now, Tusk Venture Partners manages approximately $140 million in assets under management (AUM) and has invested in over 50 companies. The firm has successfully closed multiple funds, with Fund III being the latest, which was closed in May 2022. Tusk Venture Partners has achieved notable milestones, including successful exits from companies like Coinbase, Lemonade, and FanDuel, showcasing its ability to identify and nurture high-potential startups.
Located at 251 Park Ave S, 8th Floor, New York, NY 10010, Tusk Venture Partners is strategically positioned to leverage its expertise in regulatory navigation to support its portfolio companies in achieving outsized growth.
Tusk Venture Partners focuses on early-stage technology startups across various sectors, including fintech, insurtech, gaming, digital health, mobility, and consumer services. The firm invests in companies at the pre-seed, seed, seed-plus, and Series A stages, providing capital and strategic guidance to help them navigate complex regulatory environments.
The firm’s investment thesis centers on leveraging regulatory and political risk as a competitive advantage. Tusk Venture Partners believes that by solving critical regulatory challenges, startups can unlock significant growth opportunities. This unique approach positions the firm as a valuable partner for founders looking to thrive in highly regulated markets.
Investment checks typically range from early-stage funding to larger amounts as companies progress, allowing Tusk to support its portfolio companies through various growth phases. The firm actively seeks founders who demonstrate resilience and a strong understanding of their market, particularly in navigating regulatory landscapes.
Tusk Venture Partners has built a diverse portfolio of over 50 companies, with notable successes in various sectors. Key portfolio companies include:
This portfolio reflects Tusk Venture Partners' commitment to investing in companies that are not only innovative but also capable of navigating the complexities of their respective regulatory environments.
Bradley Tusk: Co-founder and partner at Tusk Venture Partners, Bradley Tusk is a former political strategist and served as Uber's political lead. He brings extensive experience in navigating regulatory environments and has a strong track record in venture capital.
Jordan Nof: Co-founder and partner, Jordan Nof has a background in technology and venture capital. He focuses on identifying high-potential startups and supporting them through their growth phases.
John Hooie: A member of the investment team, John Hooie specializes in evaluating early-stage technology companies and their market potential.
Bob Greenlee: Part of the platform team, Bob Greenlee provides operational support and strategic guidance to portfolio companies.
Cynthia Matar: Also on the platform team, Cynthia Matar focuses on helping startups navigate regulatory challenges and enhance their market positioning.
Marla Kanemitsu: A member of the platform team, Marla Kanemitsu supports portfolio companies in scaling their operations and addressing regulatory issues.
Quinn Shean: Part of the platform team, Quinn Shean works closely with startups to provide strategic insights and operational support.
Mike LaCerda: Responsible for operations, Mike LaCerda ensures that Tusk Venture Partners runs efficiently and effectively, supporting the firm's investment activities.
To pitch Tusk Venture Partners, founders should use the preferred channel of their website at tusk.vc or email at info@tusk.vc. It is essential to include a comprehensive pitch deck that outlines the startup's business model, market opportunity, and how it plans to navigate regulatory challenges.
Founders should expect a response time of approximately 2-4 weeks after submission. Warm introductions are preferred but not mandatory. The firm appreciates detailed information that demonstrates a clear understanding of the regulatory landscape relevant to the startup's operations.
In May 2022, Tusk Venture Partners successfully closed Fund III at $140 million, marking a significant milestone for the firm. This fund will enable the firm to continue its focus on early-stage investments in highly regulated markets.
Notable exits from Tusk's portfolio include Coinbase, which has become a leading cryptocurrency exchange, and Lemonade, an insurtech company that went public. FanDuel, a prominent sports betting platform, also represents a successful exit for the firm.
As of 2023, Tusk Venture Partners continues to expand its portfolio, actively seeking new investment opportunities in sectors such as fintech, insurtech, and digital health.
What are Tusk Venture Partners' investment criteria?
Tusk Venture Partners invests in early-stage technology companies operating in highly regulated markets. The firm focuses on sectors such as fintech, insurtech, gaming, digital health, mobility, and consumer services. They look for startups that can effectively navigate regulatory challenges and demonstrate potential for outsized growth.
How can I apply or pitch to Tusk Venture Partners?
Founders can pitch Tusk Venture Partners through their website at tusk.vc or via email at info@tusk.vc. It is recommended to include a detailed pitch deck that outlines the business model, market opportunity, and regulatory challenges faced.
What makes Tusk Venture Partners different from other VC firms?
Tusk Venture Partners specializes in navigating regulatory and political risks, turning these challenges into competitive advantages for their portfolio companies. This unique focus allows them to support startups in a way that many traditional VC firms may not.
What is the geographic scope of Tusk Venture Partners?
The firm primarily invests in North America, specifically within the United States. This focus allows them to leverage their understanding of the regulatory landscape in the U.S. to benefit their portfolio companies.
What is the typical fund size and check size for Tusk Venture Partners?
Tusk Venture Partners closed its Fund III at $140 million in May 2022. The firm invests in early-stage rounds, with check sizes varying based on the stage of the company, typically ranging from pre-seed to Series A.
What kind of post-investment involvement does Tusk Venture Partners have?
Tusk Venture Partners provides strategic guidance and support to its portfolio companies, particularly in navigating regulatory hurdles. The firm is actively involved in helping startups position themselves for growth and success in their respective markets.
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