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Velocity Capital is a venture capital firm located in Epsom, Surrey, United Kingdom. Founded to facilitate investments in early-stage companies, it primarily targets technology-enabled businesses. The firm operates under the Enterprise Investment Scheme (EIS) and Seed Enterprise Investment Scheme (SEIS), which provide tax incentives for investors. Velocity Capital has established itself as a key player in the UK venture capital scene, focusing on B2C and D2C sectors.
Currently, Velocity Capital manages a fund size of $4 million and has invested in 46 companies. The firm emphasizes a hands-on approach, providing not only capital but also marketing expertise and strategic growth support to its portfolio companies. Notable milestones include the successful exits of companies like Purple Bricks, BMB, and Freuds, showcasing the firm's ability to generate significant returns for its investors.
Velocity Capital's office is situated at 2A The Quadrant, Epsom, Surrey, KT17 4RH, United Kingdom. The firm is led by a team of experienced professionals with backgrounds in marketing, finance, and entrepreneurship, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the challenges faced by early-stage startups.
Velocity Capital primarily invests in early-stage technology-enabled businesses across various sectors, including SaaS, commerce, consumer, healthcare, fintech, edtech, biotech, AI, web3, and climate. The firm focuses on pre-seed and seed stage investments, seeking opportunities that promise capital growth. Velocity Capital aims for target returns of 2.5x to 3x over a holding period of approximately five years.
The firm employs a unique non-dilutive user acquisition product called 'Velocity Juice', which enhances the growth potential of its portfolio companies. This product, combined with the firm's marketing expertise, positions Velocity Capital as a valuable partner for startups looking to scale. The firm actively seeks founders who demonstrate a strong vision and the ability to execute their business plans effectively.
Velocity Capital's investment strategy is further supported by its commitment to aligning interests with its limited partners (LPs), as the team invests its own capital alongside that of LPs. This approach fosters a collaborative environment where both the firm and its portfolio companies can thrive.
Velocity Capital's portfolio includes a diverse range of companies that exemplify its focus on technology and innovation. Notable portfolio companies include:
These companies reflect Velocity Capital's commitment to investing in innovative solutions across various sectors, particularly those that leverage technology to enhance consumer experiences.
Rajeev Saxena - Co-Founder & CEO; Rajeev has a background as the former Marketing Director at Red Bull and has experience in advertising with TBWA/Leo Burnett. He holds an MBA from IMD Lausanne and has founded the MPPI media fund and the Soho House Mumbai franchise.
Thomas Lindup - COO; Thomas is a corporate finance lawyer with experience at Sidley Austin LLP. He led Van Elle Ltd through its AIM flotation in 2016, establishing it as the UK's largest geotechnical engineering firm.
Bil Bungay - Founder & Creative Director; Bil co-founded the Beattie McGuiness Bungay advertising agency and has worked on campaigns for major brands such as McCain, Tui, Carling, and Virgin Money, bringing over 30 years of creative and marketing experience.
Kirsten Ellis - Portfolio Manager; Kirsten is a CA(SA) chartered accountant with a background at Deloitte Johannesburg and corporate finance experience at Corbett Keeling.
Richard Guy - Venture Partner; Richard has over 15 years of experience in the tech sector and holds an MBA from Imperial College. He served as COO at Focus Group Europe, which was acquired by Accenture.
Ashley Smith - Head of Business Development; Ashley has over 7 years of experience in tax-efficient investment and is a former professional rugby player with the London Wasps and Jamaica international.
Kyle Soulsby - Business Development Manager; Kyle has over 10 years of experience in financial services and a background as a Canadian Independent Financial Advisor.
Ollie Weaver - Senior BD Associate; Ollie specializes in tax-efficient investments and is a graduate of Cardiff University.
Polina Laboret - Marketing & Operations Lead; Polina oversees marketing and operational strategies within the firm.
To pitch to Velocity Capital, founders should visit their contact page at velocity-group.com. It is advisable to include a comprehensive pitch deck that outlines the business model, market opportunity, competitive landscape, and financial projections. The firm prefers detailed information that showcases the startup's potential for growth.
Response times may vary, but founders can expect to hear back within a few weeks. Warm introductions are encouraged, as they can facilitate the review process and enhance the likelihood of engagement.
In recent months, Velocity Capital has continued to expand its portfolio, adding innovative companies that align with its investment thesis. The firm has successfully supported the growth of its existing portfolio companies, leveraging its marketing expertise and the 'Velocity Juice' product to enhance user acquisition strategies.
Velocity Capital has also been active in the venture capital community, participating in discussions about the future of early-stage investing in the UK. The firm remains committed to its mission of supporting technology-enabled businesses and fostering growth in the B2C and D2C sectors.
What are Velocity Capital's investment criteria?
Velocity Capital invests in early-stage technology-enabled businesses, particularly in the B2C and D2C sectors. The firm focuses on pre-seed and seed stage investments and seeks opportunities that promise capital growth.
How can I apply or pitch to Velocity Capital?
Founders can pitch to Velocity Capital through their website at velocity-group.com. It is recommended to include a detailed business plan and financial projections in the pitch deck.
What makes Velocity Capital different from other VCs?
Velocity Capital differentiates itself through its unique non-dilutive user acquisition product, 'Velocity Juice', which provides portfolio companies with additional resources for growth. The firm also emphasizes marketing expertise and strategic support alongside capital.
What is the geographic scope of Velocity Capital's investments?
Velocity Capital primarily invests in companies based in the United Kingdom, leveraging the SEIS and EIS frameworks to provide tax incentives for investors.
What is the typical fund size and check size for investments?
The firm manages a fund size of $4 million and typically invests in early-stage companies, although specific check sizes may vary based on the opportunity.
What is Velocity Capital's post-investment involvement like?
Velocity Capital actively supports its portfolio companies through marketing expertise, strategic growth initiatives, and access to a network of resources, ensuring alignment of interests and fostering collaborative growth.
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