Discover if this is a suitable investor for your startup. If they are we'll make a warm introduction for free. Otherwise, we'll connect you with matching investors.
Westerly Winds is a private equity firm founded in 2018, with offices located in London, UK, and Austin, USA. The firm focuses on partnering with emerging companies that demonstrate efficient capital use and strong governance, led by exceptional founders. Since its inception, Westerly Winds has built a diverse portfolio of 12 companies across various sectors.
The firm emphasizes investments in technology-driven businesses, particularly those that embrace advancements in hardware and software. With a commitment to supporting companies that report annualized revenues exceeding $5 million, Westerly Winds has established itself as a key player in the venture capital space.
Notable milestones include their rapid growth since 2018 and their strategic focus on sectors such as AI, healthcare, climate, consumer, commerce, and gaming. The firm’s dual presence in London and Austin allows it to tap into vibrant startup ecosystems in both North America and Western Europe.
Westerly Winds invests primarily in companies across several sectors, including AI, healthcare, climate, consumer, commerce, and gaming. The firm specializes at the convergence of venture and growth capital, targeting businesses seeking Series A, B, and C financing. They particularly favor companies that embrace technology in hardware or software, which aligns with their investment thesis.
Investment criteria include a strong emphasis on efficient capital use and governance. Companies that report annualized revenues exceeding $5 million are of particular interest. This focus on revenue generation indicates a preference for businesses that have demonstrated market traction and operational viability.
Geographically, Westerly Winds concentrates its investments in North America and Western Europe, allowing them to leverage local market knowledge and networks. The firm seeks to partner with exceptional founders who are committed to driving innovation and growth within their respective industries.
Westerly Winds has a diverse portfolio of 12 companies, showcasing its commitment to various sectors. Notable portfolio companies include:
This portfolio reflects Westerly Winds' strategic focus on technology-driven companies that are positioned for growth and innovation.
Karim Abdel-Ghaffar Plaza: Founder & CEO, with a background in venture capital and private equity, leading multiple successful investments.
Edward van Cutsem: Founder & Executive Chairman, experienced in managing investment portfolios and strategic growth initiatives.
Ashton Squires: COO, responsible for operational management and enhancing firm efficiency.
Catherine Patel: Investment Principal, focuses on sourcing and evaluating investment opportunities across sectors.
James Charrington: Board Director, brings extensive experience in corporate governance and strategic oversight.
James Tallman: Chairman, WW USA IC Member, with a strong background in investment management.
Hugo van Vredenburch: IC Member, involved in investment decision-making processes.
John Tumilty: Venture Partner, specializes in identifying growth opportunities in emerging markets.
Jason Harrison: Director: WW USA, Construction Finance Holdings, with expertise in construction finance.
Dudley Hawes: Venture Partner, focuses on technology investments and market analysis.
Doug Nunes: Venture Partner, experienced in scaling startups and operational strategy.
Pablo Santa Cruz: Venture Partner, brings insights from various sectors to the investment team.
Laya Medawar: Venture Partner, specializes in early-stage investments and founder support.
Martina Cobiella: Analyst, supports investment research and portfolio management.
Lucas Tumilty-Gutierrez: Analyst, assists in evaluating potential investment opportunities.
To pitch to Westerly Winds, founders should email hello@westerlywinds.com. It is essential to include a comprehensive deck that outlines the business model, market opportunity, and financial projections. The firm appreciates well-organized presentations that clearly convey the startup's value proposition.
Response times may vary, but founders can expect to hear back within a few weeks. Warm introductions are preferred, as they can facilitate a more favorable review process.
In recent months, Westerly Winds has made significant investments in companies such as Aquabyte and Carbon Clean, reflecting their commitment to innovative technologies in the AI and climate sectors. These investments align with the firm's focus on supporting businesses that demonstrate strong governance and efficient capital use.
Additionally, the firm has expanded its portfolio to include companies like Elvie and FishBrain, further diversifying its investments across various sectors. This activity underscores Westerly Winds' proactive approach to identifying and supporting emerging companies in North America and Western Europe.
What are Westerly Winds' investment criteria?
Westerly Winds invests in companies across various sectors, focusing on those seeking Series A, B, and C financing. They prefer businesses that report annualized revenues exceeding $5 million and demonstrate efficient capital use and strong governance.
How can I apply or pitch to Westerly Winds?
Founders can pitch to Westerly Winds by emailing hello@westerlywinds.com. It is advisable to include a detailed deck outlining the business model, market opportunity, and financial projections.
What makes Westerly Winds different from other firms?
The firm specializes at the convergence of venture and growth capital, focusing on technology-driven companies. Their emphasis on strong governance and efficient capital use sets them apart in the investment landscape.
What is the geographic scope of Westerly Winds' investments?
Westerly Winds primarily invests in North America and Western Europe, allowing them to leverage local market insights and networks.
What is Westerly Winds' post-investment involvement?
The firm actively engages with its portfolio companies, providing operational support and strategic guidance to help them scale effectively.
What is the typical check size for investments?
While specific check sizes are not disclosed, Westerly Winds targets companies in Series A-C financing, indicating a willingness to invest significant amounts to support growth.
All trademarks, logos and brand names are the property of their respective owners. All company, product and service names used in this website are for identification purposes only. Use of these names, trademarks, and brands does not imply endorsement.