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Waldo is a New York-based venture capital firm that focuses on investing in proven, early-growth stage software and tech-enabled services companies. Founded by Jon Rosenbaum and Julie Effron, the firm closed its inaugural fund, Waldo I, at $225 million in January 2026. This marks the beginning of its active investment lifecycle, targeting companies that demonstrate strong fundamentals and the potential for scalable growth.
The firm emphasizes backing founder-led businesses, aiming to partner with entrepreneurs who are building enduring companies with ambition and intention. Waldo's investment strategy is grounded in identifying hard-to-locate companies that have already shown real-world traction, making it a compelling choice for startups that have moved beyond the concept stage.
Waldo's team comprises experienced professionals, including founders and operators with a history of scaling technology businesses. This expertise positions the firm to provide valuable insights and support to its portfolio companies as they navigate their growth journeys.
Waldo invests primarily in early-growth stage companies within the software and tech-enabled services sectors. The firm seeks businesses that have demonstrated real-world traction and are beyond the initial concept phase. This focus allows Waldo to identify companies with strong fundamentals and scalable growth potential.
The firm operates globally, with its headquarters in New York, and is open to partnering with founders from various regions. Waldo's investment strategy is characterized by a proactive approach, utilizing a data- and technology-enabled investment platform to source and conduct due diligence on potential investments. This suggests a preference for companies that are not only innovative but also grounded in evidence of customer demand and a clear path to durable scale.
Waldo's check sizes have not been disclosed, but the firm is known for its commitment to supporting founder-led businesses that align with its investment thesis. The emphasis on proven potential and innovation makes Waldo an attractive partner for startups looking to scale their operations effectively.
Jon Rosenbaum, Managing Partner: Jon has over a decade of investing experience, previously working at Insight Partners. He has a strong track record in identifying and scaling technology businesses.
Julie Effron, Managing Partner: Julie co-founded ALICE, a hotel software company acquired by Expedia. She brings both operational and investment expertise, having held various board roles in technology companies.
Allyson White Buehrens, Team Member: Allyson is part of Waldo's small team and contributes to the firm's investment strategy and operations.
Bradley Tatz, Team Member: Bradley is involved in sourcing and evaluating potential investments, leveraging his background in technology.
Skylar Ford, Team Member: Skylar supports the firm's operational efforts and helps in managing portfolio companies.
To pitch Waldo, founders can use the contact email findus@waldocap.com or visit their website at waldocap.com. While specific details about the pitch process are not disclosed, it is advisable to include a clear overview of the business model, traction metrics, and the team’s background in the pitch deck.
Founders should aim to convey their vision and how their company aligns with Waldo's investment focus on early-growth stage software and tech-enabled services. A concise and compelling presentation will likely resonate with the firm.
On January 22, 2026, Waldo announced the close of its inaugural fund, Waldo I, at $225 million. This fund aims to support early-growth stage software and tech-enabled services companies.
The firm is newly active in the venture capital space, focusing on founder-led businesses with proven potential. As of now, no portfolio companies have been publicly disclosed, reflecting the firm's early lifecycle since the fund's closing.
What types of companies does Waldo invest in?
Waldo focuses on early-growth stage companies in the software and tech-enabled services sectors. The firm prioritizes businesses that have demonstrated real-world traction and are beyond the concept stage.
How can I pitch Waldo?
Founders can pitch Waldo by reaching out through their website at waldocap.com or via email at findus@waldocap.com. Specific details about the pitch process have not been disclosed.
What makes Waldo different from other venture capital firms?
Waldo distinguishes itself by its focus on proven, early-growth technology companies and its commitment to backing founder-led businesses. The firm employs a data- and technology-enabled investment platform, which enhances its sourcing and diligence processes.
What is Waldo's geographic focus?
Waldo operates globally, with its headquarters in New York. The firm is open to partnering with founders from various regions around the world.
What is the typical check size for investments?
Waldo has not disclosed specific check sizes for its investments. However, the firm is known for its focus on early-growth stage companies, which may suggest a range that aligns with that stage.
What kind of support does Waldo provide to its portfolio companies?
Waldo adds value through its experienced team, which includes founders and operators with a track record in scaling technology businesses. This expertise allows the firm to provide operational support and mentorship to its portfolio companies.
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