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Vertex Ventures US is a venture capital firm founded in 2015 by a team of former founders and operators. Based in San Francisco, California, the firm is part of the global Vertex Ventures network, which is backed by Temasek. Vertex Ventures US focuses on early-stage investments, particularly in the infrastructure and SaaS sectors. The firm has established itself as a key player in the venture capital landscape, with a strong emphasis on partnering with technical founders to help them scale their businesses effectively.
As of now, Vertex Ventures US manages over $200 million in assets across its funds, with a portfolio comprising approximately 50 companies. The firm’s investment strategy is characterized by a high-conviction approach, leading or co-leading Seed and Series A funding rounds. Vertex Ventures US has achieved notable milestones, including the successful acquisition of portfolio company Evisort by Workday in 2024.
Vertex Ventures US primarily invests in early-stage companies, with a strong focus on infrastructure software and SaaS. The firm typically leads or co-leads Seed and Series A funding rounds, with investment sizes ranging from $500,000 to $10 million. Their investment strategy emphasizes the importance of go-to-market execution and building strong teams, which are critical for the success of their portfolio companies.
The firm has a particular interest in sectors such as developer tools, data platforms, security, vertical SaaS, and AI/ML. Vertex Ventures US seeks to partner with technical founders who are capable of navigating the complexities of scaling their businesses. Their approach includes deep engagement with founders to design effective go-to-market strategies and assemble strong teams, ensuring that their portfolio companies are well-positioned for growth.
Vertex Ventures US has invested in a diverse range of companies, showcasing its commitment to the SaaS and AI sectors. Notable portfolio companies include:
Overall, Vertex Ventures US has a portfolio of around 50 companies across the United States and Europe, reflecting its commitment to supporting innovative startups in the SaaS and AI domains.
In Sik Rhee: General Partner at Vertex Ventures US, brings extensive experience from his background as a founder and operator.
Jonathan Heiliger: General Partner, previously worked at Facebook where he scaled data centers. He is one of the founding GPs of Vertex Ventures US.
Sandeep Bhadra: General Partner with a strong background in technology and venture capital.
Noah Carr: General Partner, known for his expertise in early-stage investments and operational support.
Megan Reynolds: Principal at the firm, focusing on sourcing and evaluating new investment opportunities.
Simon Tiu: Principal, involved in supporting portfolio companies and managing relationships with founders.
To pitch Vertex Ventures US, founders should submit their proposals through the firm's website at vvus.com. It is important to include a detailed pitch deck that outlines the business model, market opportunity, and team dynamics. Vertex Ventures US prefers to receive pitches via this channel and typically responds within a few weeks. Warm introductions are beneficial but not strictly necessary.
In March 2024, Vertex Ventures US announced the acquisition of portfolio company Evisort by Workday, marking a significant exit for the firm. In August 2025, Vertex Ventures US led a $5.5 million seed round for Cleric, an on-call AI agent, showcasing their continued investment in innovative startups.
Vertex Ventures US closed its third fund at $200 million in September 2022, the largest fund to date, reflecting the firm's growth and commitment to supporting early-stage companies. The firm remains active in the venture capital space, with ongoing investments and a focus on building strong partnerships with technical founders.
What are Vertex Ventures US's investment criteria?
Vertex Ventures US focuses on early-stage companies in the infrastructure and SaaS sectors. They typically invest in Seed and Series A rounds, with check sizes ranging from $500,000 to $10 million. The firm seeks to partner with technical founders who have a strong go-to-market strategy and the ability to build effective teams.
How can I pitch to Vertex Ventures US?
Founders can pitch Vertex Ventures US through their website at vvus.com. It is recommended to include a clear overview of the business model, market opportunity, and team dynamics in the pitch deck.
What makes Vertex Ventures US different from other VC firms?
Vertex Ventures US differentiates itself by its focus on technical founders and its commitment to helping them design effective go-to-market strategies. The firm emphasizes deep engagement with portfolio companies, providing operational support and leveraging its extensive network to facilitate growth.
What is the geographic scope of Vertex Ventures US's investments?
While Vertex Ventures US primarily invests in the United States, over 40% of their Fund II investments were made in companies founded outside the US. This transatlantic reach allows them to tap into a broader range of innovative startups.
What is the fund size and check size for Vertex Ventures US?
Vertex Ventures US's latest fund, Fund III, closed at $200 million in September 2022. The firm typically invests between $500,000 and $10 million in initial funding rounds, with the potential for follow-on investments as companies grow.
What kind of post-investment involvement does Vertex Ventures US have?
Vertex Ventures US is known for its high-conviction approach, which involves deep engagement with portfolio companies. They provide operational support, assist in team building, and help founders navigate the complexities of scaling their businesses.
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