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VC 414 is a women-founded and Latina-led early-stage venture capital firm headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Established in 2022, the firm focuses on empowering entrepreneurs who leverage innovation for public good. The General Partners bring over 40 years of combined experience across various sectors, including government, utility, nonprofit, higher education, financial services, real estate, and venture investment.
As a relatively new player in the venture capital space, VC 414 has quickly positioned itself as a champion for underrepresented founders, particularly women and minorities. The firm operates with a clear mission to address legacy problems and contribute to wealth building in frontline industries. VC 414's commitment to diversity is reflected in its leadership and investment strategy, making it a unique entity in the venture capital landscape.
VC 414 invests in early-stage, high-growth potential technology startups, particularly in the B2B and B2B2C sectors. The firm targets pre-seed and seed stage companies that are modernizing essential systems in health, industry, and finance. Their investment strategy emphasizes sectors that support frontline workers and address legacy problems, including healthcare, fintech, edtech, and climate technology.
The firm prioritizes funding underrepresented founders, including women, minorities, veterans, and LGBTQ entrepreneurs. VC 414 seeks to fuel innovation that contributes to economic growth and social impact. The average round size for their investments is approximately $1.64 million, allowing them to lead seed rounds and participate in larger funding rounds as needed.
VC 414's portfolio consists of 16 companies that reflect its commitment to supporting underrepresented founders and addressing legacy problems. Notable portfolio companies include:
Jennifer Abele: Founder & Managing Partner. Jennifer has a background as a venture capital and angel investor, bringing extensive experience in supporting early-stage companies.
Raquel Filmanowicz: Founder & Managing Partner. Raquel is a former executive at BMO Harris and is recognized as the first Latina General Partner of a VC firm in Wisconsin. She has a strong focus on supporting diverse entrepreneurs.
Zareen Khan: Chief of Staff. Zareen plays a crucial role in operations and strategic initiatives at VC 414, ensuring the firm runs efficiently and effectively.
To pitch VC 414, startups should use the intake form available on their website at vc414.com/intake-form. The firm prefers detailed submissions that outline the business model, market opportunity, and team background. Founders should include any relevant traction metrics and future growth plans in their pitch decks.
VC 414 typically reviews submissions promptly, but response times may vary based on the volume of inquiries. Warm introductions are encouraged but not mandatory. The firm values clarity and thoroughness in pitches, which helps them assess alignment with their investment thesis.
In 2023, VC 414 led a $1.2 million seed round for TEAMology, a K-8 EdTech company backed by Penn State. This investment highlights the firm's commitment to supporting educational technology and underrepresented founders.
Additionally, VC 414 has been featured in various media outlets, including BizTimes Milwaukee and the Wisconsin Technology Council, for its efforts to empower underrepresented entrepreneurs and address legacy problems in essential industries.
What are VC 414's investment criteria?
VC 414 focuses on early-stage technology startups in the B2B and B2B2C sectors, particularly those addressing legacy problems in healthcare, fintech, edtech, and climate technology. They prioritize investments in companies led by underrepresented founders, including women, minorities, veterans, and LGBTQ entrepreneurs.
How can startups apply or pitch to VC 414?
Startups can submit their details through the intake form available on the VC 414 website at vc414.com/intake-form. The firm encourages founders to provide comprehensive information about their business and vision.
What makes VC 414 different from other venture capital firms?
VC 414 is distinguished by its commitment to empowering underrepresented entrepreneurs and addressing legacy problems in essential industries. The firm is 100% women-led and 50% Latina-led, which influences its investment strategy and focus on diversity.
What is the geographic scope of VC 414's investments?
While based in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, VC 414 invests in startups across the United States. The firm has a particular affinity for Midwest-based companies but is open to national opportunities.
What is the typical check size for investments?
VC 414 typically participates in seed rounds with average round sizes around $1.64 million. They often lead seed rounds and can invest larger amounts depending on the opportunity.
What kind of support does VC 414 provide to its portfolio companies?
VC 414 offers strategic support by leveraging the extensive experience of its founders in various industries. This includes facilitating connections, providing mentorship, and fostering an inclusive network that empowers underrepresented entrepreneurs.
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