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Verdex Capital is a venture capital firm located in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. Founded in 1997, the firm has a long-standing commitment to investing in the Canadian food and agricultural sectors. Originally known as AVAC Group, it rebranded to Verdex Capital in February 2024 to emphasize its focus on agricultural innovation. The firm operates through its initiatives, including Carrot Ventures and the Verdex AgriFund, which are designed to support early-stage companies in the agricultural sector.
As of now, Verdex Capital manages an evergreen fund structure, allowing for continuous investment without the constraints of a traditional fund lifecycle. The firm has a diverse portfolio and has established partnerships with notable organizations, including Farm Credit Canada. With over 27 years of experience, Verdex Capital has built a reputation as a credible investor in the Canadian agtech space, focusing on high-impact ventures that address significant market challenges.
Verdex Capital targets investments in the agricultural sector, specifically in AgTech and FoodTech companies at the Seed, Seed+, and Series A stages. The firm provides patient capital to startups that demonstrate potential for significant impact within the Canadian agricultural landscape. It prefers to co-invest alongside qualified lead investors, ensuring that the companies it backs have strong financial support and guidance.
The firm seeks ventures that are innovative and address pressing challenges in agriculture, such as sustainability and efficiency. Verdex Capital's investment strategy emphasizes collaboration with industry leaders, allowing for shared expertise and resources. This approach not only enhances the potential for financial returns but also aims to create measurable environmental and social impacts.
Verdex Capital has a diverse portfolio that includes notable investments in various sectors related to agriculture and technology. Key portfolio companies include:
Martin Vetter - CEO: Martin has extensive experience in venture capital and agricultural technology, leading Verdex Capital's strategic direction.
Collin Phillip - Senior Vice President: Collin brings a strong background in investment management and has been instrumental in portfolio development.
Jim Hardin - Vice President: Jim focuses on sourcing and evaluating new investment opportunities within the agtech sector.
Steven Koeckhoven - Investment Manager: Steven manages the firm's investment processes and supports portfolio companies.
Monte Wilson - CFO: Monte oversees financial operations and reporting for Verdex Capital.
Shay Naghshineh - Finance & Office Admin: Shay supports the firm's administrative and financial functions.
To pitch to Verdex Capital, startups should use the contact form available on their website. A well-structured pitch deck is essential, including details about the business model, market opportunity, and team qualifications. Response times may vary, but founders can expect to hear back within a few weeks.
Verdex AgriFund is a co-investment fund that targets early-stage AgTech and FoodTech companies. It invests up to $500,000 in Seed financings and up to $1,000,000 in Series A financings, focusing on companies that have secured a lead investor. This fund is part of Verdex Capital's broader strategy to support innovation in the agricultural sector.
In February 2024, Verdex Capital announced its rebranding from AVAC Group, marking a renewed focus on the agtech and foodtech sectors. This change reflects the firm's commitment to advancing Canadian agriculture through targeted investments.
Recent portfolio activity includes the acquisition of Circle Cardiovascular Imaging by Thoma Bravo and Decisive Farming Corp. by TELUS Agriculture, showcasing Verdex Capital's successful track record in facilitating exits for its portfolio companies.
What are Verdex Capital's investment criteria?
Verdex Capital invests in early-stage AgTech and FoodTech companies, focusing on those that have secured a lead investor. The firm looks for high-impact ventures that address significant challenges in the agricultural sector.
How can startups apply or pitch to Verdex Capital?
Startups can reach out through the contact form on the Verdex Capital website. It is advisable to include a detailed pitch deck that outlines the business model, market opportunity, and team background.
What makes Verdex Capital different from other venture capital firms?
Verdex Capital operates with an evergreen fund structure, allowing for continuous investment. The firm also emphasizes co-investment with industry leaders, which enhances the support provided to portfolio companies.
What is the geographic scope of Verdex Capital's investments?
The firm primarily invests in North America, with a strong focus on Canadian agricultural innovation.
What is the typical check size for investments?
Verdex Capital invests up to $500,000 in Seed financings and up to $1,000,000 in Series A financings through its Verdex AgriFund.
What kind of post-investment involvement does Verdex Capital have?
Verdex Capital provides ongoing support to its portfolio companies, including mentorship, access to resources, and potential follow-on investments as companies grow.
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