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U.S. Venture Partners (USVP) is a venture capital firm founded in 1981 and headquartered in Menlo Park, California. With over four decades of experience, USVP has established itself as a prominent player in the venture capital landscape, particularly in early-stage investments. The firm has invested in more than 400 companies, demonstrating a strong commitment to supporting innovative entrepreneurs across various sectors.
USVP has raised multiple funds, including USVP XII, a $340 million fund, and USVP XIII, a $400 million fund, both aimed at early-stage investments in technology and healthcare. The firm has a total invested capital of $4.3 billion since its inception. USVP's notable portfolio includes companies like Box, Guidewire, and Yammer, showcasing its ability to identify and support high-potential startups. The firm operates primarily in North America but also considers global opportunities.
U.S. Venture Partners specializes in early-stage investments across several key sectors, including SaaS, cybersecurity, healthcare, and consumer technology. The firm typically invests in companies at various stages, from Pre Seed to Series B+, with check sizes ranging from $5 million to $10 million. USVP is particularly focused on the transition to cloud technologies and enhancing consumer experiences through innovative solutions.
In the healthcare sector, USVP targets medical devices, biotechnology, and healthcare IT, emphasizing innovative therapeutic solutions. The firm seeks to partner with entrepreneurs who are passionate about transforming their ideas into impactful companies. USVP's investment strategy is characterized by a hands-on approach, providing strategic guidance and leveraging its extensive network to help portfolio companies scale effectively.
U.S. Venture Partners has a diverse portfolio of over 400 companies, with notable investments across various sectors. Key portfolio companies include:
USVP has also achieved notable exits, including Informed and Raken, further solidifying its reputation in the venture capital space.
Dafina Toncheva - General Partner. Dafina has extensive experience in venture capital and has led numerous successful investments in technology and healthcare sectors.
Rick Lewis - General Partner. Rick has a strong background in enterprise software and has been instrumental in guiding portfolio companies through growth phases.
Jacques Benkoski - General Partner. Jacques specializes in cybersecurity investments and has a proven track record of identifying high-potential startups in this space.
Matt Garratt - General Partner. Matt focuses on consumer technology and has a deep understanding of market trends and consumer behavior.
Casey Tansey - General Partner. Casey has a background in healthcare investments and is dedicated to supporting innovative solutions in the medical field.
Jon Root - General Partner. Jon brings expertise in scaling technology companies and has a strong network in the Silicon Valley ecosystem.
Dale Holladay - Chief Financial Officer. Dale oversees financial operations and has extensive experience in managing venture capital funds.
To pitch U.S. Venture Partners, founders should send an email to contact@usvp.com. It is important to include a well-structured pitch deck that outlines the business model, market opportunity, competitive landscape, and team background. USVP prefers concise and informative presentations that clearly convey the startup's vision and potential for growth.
Response times can vary, but founders should expect to hear back within a few weeks. Warm introductions are beneficial but not mandatory.
In December 2025, U.S. Venture Partners achieved a notable exit with Informed, marking a significant milestone for the firm. Earlier in August 2025, USVP also celebrated the exit of Raken, further demonstrating its successful investment strategy.
Recently, USVP has been actively engaged with its portfolio, highlighting significant funding rounds for companies such as Slang AI, which raised $36 million in a Series B round, and Adaptive6, which emerged from stealth mode. These activities reflect USVP's commitment to supporting innovative startups and maintaining a strong presence in the venture capital ecosystem.
What are U.S. Venture Partners' investment criteria?
USVP invests in early-stage companies primarily in the sectors of SaaS, cybersecurity, healthcare, and consumer technology. The firm typically looks for innovative solutions that have the potential to disrupt existing markets.
How can I apply or pitch to U.S. Venture Partners?
Founders can pitch USVP by sending an email to contact@usvp.com. It is advisable to include a detailed pitch deck that outlines the business model, market opportunity, and team background.
What makes U.S. Venture Partners different from other VC firms?
USVP has over 40 years of experience in early-stage investing, a strong track record of successful exits, and a deep network of industry professionals that can provide strategic guidance and support to portfolio companies.
What is the geographic scope of U.S. Venture Partners' investments?
While USVP primarily focuses on North America, it also considers investment opportunities in global markets, particularly in Israel.
What is the typical check size for investments?
USVP typically invests between $5 million and $10 million in its portfolio companies, depending on the stage and potential of the business.
What kind of post-investment involvement does U.S. Venture Partners have?
USVP actively engages with its portfolio companies, providing strategic guidance, facilitating connections, and supporting entrepreneurs in navigating challenges as they scale their businesses.
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