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Venrock, established in 1969, serves as the venture capital arm of the Rockefeller family. The firm is headquartered in Palo Alto, California, with additional offices in New York City. Over its 55+ years of operation, Venrock has built a reputation for investing in early-stage and growth-stage companies, primarily in the technology and healthcare sectors.
The firm has a notable history of successful investments, including high-profile exits such as Apple, Intel, Gilead Sciences, and Check Point. Venrock's approach emphasizes partnering with entrepreneurs who are addressing significant challenges and tackling problems that many consider impossible. This long-term perspective, combined with deep expertise in technology and healthcare, positions Venrock as a compelling partner for startups.
Venrock invests in companies at various stages, including seed, Series A, and Series B rounds, with check sizes ranging from $2 million to $20 million. The firm primarily focuses on sectors such as biotech, cybersecurity, healthcare, and SaaS. Their investment strategy is centered around identifying innovative companies capable of disrupting existing markets.
The firm seeks to partner with entrepreneurs who are addressing big, hard problems in technology and healthcare. Venrock's investment thesis emphasizes the importance of supporting companies that have the potential to create significant impact and drive change within their respective industries.
Venrock's portfolio includes a mix of notable companies that have achieved significant success:
David Pakman: Partner at Venrock, David has extensive experience in technology investments and has led notable deals in the sector. He holds a background in both venture capital and entrepreneurship.
Bob Kocher: Partner at Venrock, Bob specializes in healthcare investments and has a strong track record in the biopharmaceutical industry. He has previously worked in various leadership roles within healthcare organizations.
Jillian Manus: Partner at Venrock, Jillian brings expertise in technology and consumer investments. She has a background in law and has worked with numerous startups throughout her career.
Ben Narasin: Partner at Venrock, Ben focuses on early-stage investments in technology. He has a history of working with innovative companies and has a strong understanding of market dynamics.
To pitch Venrock, founders should visit their contact page for submission guidelines. A well-structured pitch deck should include an overview of the business model, market analysis, competitive landscape, and financial projections. Venrock prefers direct outreach and values warm introductions, but they also accept unsolicited pitches.
Response times can vary, but founders should expect to hear back within a few weeks after submission. Clear and concise communication is essential to capture the attention of the investment team.
On December 1, 2025, Venrock made its latest investment, continuing its active presence in the venture capital landscape. In the past 12 months, the firm has completed 10 investments, reinforcing its commitment to supporting innovative companies in technology and healthcare.
Venrock's notable exits include high-profile companies such as Apple and Gilead Sciences, showcasing its successful track record in identifying and nurturing disruptive technologies.
What are Venrock's investment criteria?
Venrock focuses on early-stage and growth-stage investments in technology and healthcare sectors. They look for companies that are addressing significant challenges and have the potential to disrupt existing markets.
How can I apply or pitch to Venrock?
Founders can pitch to Venrock by visiting their contact page. They encourage direct outreach and provide a platform for entrepreneurs to submit their proposals.
What makes Venrock different from other venture capital firms?
Venrock's unique heritage as the Rockefeller family venture arm provides a long-term perspective and deep expertise in technology and healthcare. Their focus on partnering with entrepreneurs tackling big, hard problems sets them apart in the venture capital landscape.
What is Venrock's geographic scope?
Venrock primarily operates in North America, with offices located in Palo Alto and New York City. They focus on investing in companies based in these regions.
What is Venrock's post-investment involvement like?
Venrock actively engages with its portfolio companies, providing mentorship, operational support, and access to their extensive network. They aim to help founders navigate the complexities of scaling their businesses.
What is the typical check size Venrock invests?
Venrock typically invests between $2 million and $20 million in their portfolio companies, allowing them to support businesses at various stages of growth.
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