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Work America Capital is a venture capital firm based in Houston, Texas, founded in 2017. The firm operates a $20 million Fund I, exclusively focused on investing in Houston-based startups. Work America Capital aims to create a premier hub for entrepreneurship in Houston, partnering with high-potential leaders who share strong values and a passion for building successful businesses.
The firm is committed to developing future leaders and fostering entrepreneurship within the community. It wholly owns The Cannon, a co-working space and seed-funding accelerator that supports local entrepreneurs and startups. The Cannon is designed to provide resources, networking opportunities, and a collaborative environment for emerging businesses.
As of now, Work America Capital has a portfolio of seven companies and a limited partner base of over 40 investors. The firm targets a return of 2-3x over a 5-8 year period, emphasizing its dedication to both community impact and financial returns.
Work America Capital primarily invests in early-stage companies, specifically those located in Houston, Texas. The firm focuses on sectors such as publishing, entertainment software, and commercial services. Its investment strategy emphasizes partnerships with talented executives, providing them with the necessary resources to build successful businesses. The firm often leads investment rounds, as evidenced by its involvement in the Series A funding of Mainline, an esports tournament software company.
Check sizes typically range from pre-seed to Series A stages, allowing the firm to support startups at various points in their development. Work America Capital seeks to create companies that positively impact the community while delivering returns to its investors. The firm’s unique approach couples capital investment with physical infrastructure through The Cannon, enhancing the support it provides to portfolio companies.
Work America Capital has invested in a diverse range of companies, focusing on those that align with its mission of community impact and entrepreneurship. Notable portfolio companies include:
This portfolio reflects Work America Capital's commitment to supporting local entrepreneurs and businesses that contribute to the Houston community.
Mark Toon: Co-Founder & Managing Partner. Mark has extensive experience in venture capital and entrepreneurship, having co-founded Work America Capital to focus on Houston-based startups.
Jeffrey V. Smith: Co-Founder. Jeffrey brings a wealth of knowledge in investment strategies and has played a key role in shaping the firm's focus on community-driven entrepreneurship.
Kelly Dowe: Chief Financial Officer. Kelly oversees the financial operations of Work America Capital, ensuring the firm maintains its commitment to delivering returns to investors while supporting local businesses.
To pitch Work America Capital, founders should submit their proposals through the firm's website. It is essential to include a comprehensive pitch deck that outlines the business model, market opportunity, financial projections, and team background. The firm prefers to receive pitches via email or through their online submission portal.
Response times may vary, but founders can generally expect to hear back within a few weeks. Warm introductions are encouraged, as they can facilitate a more favorable review process.
The Cannon, founded in September 2017, serves as a co-working space and seed-funding accelerator for startups in Houston. It provides resources, networking opportunities, and a collaborative environment for entrepreneurs. Startups looking to apply for support through The Cannon can reach out directly via their website for more information on eligibility and application processes.
In October 2019, Work America Capital led a Series A investment of $6.8 million in Mainline, a company focused on esports tournament software. This investment highlights the firm's commitment to supporting innovative startups in the Houston area.
Work America Capital continues to operate its co-working space, The Cannon, which has expanded significantly since its inception. The Cannon aims to create a thriving environment for local entrepreneurs and startups, further solidifying Work America Capital's role in the Houston entrepreneurial ecosystem.
What are Work America Capital's investment criteria?
Work America Capital focuses on early-stage companies based in Houston, Texas. The firm invests in sectors such as publishing, entertainment software, and commercial services. It seeks to partner with talented executives who share strong values and a passion for entrepreneurship.
How can I apply or pitch to Work America Capital?
Founders can pitch their startups through the Work America Capital website. It is recommended to include a detailed business plan, financial projections, and information about the founding team in the pitch deck.
What makes Work America Capital different from other venture capital firms?
Work America Capital distinguishes itself by its strict focus on Houston-based startups and its ownership of The Cannon, a co-working space that provides additional resources and networking opportunities for portfolio companies.
What is the typical check size for investments?
The firm invests across various early-stage rounds, including pre-seed, seed, seed+, and Series A, with check sizes varying based on the stage and specific needs of the startup.
What is the firm's post-investment involvement like?
Work America Capital actively supports its portfolio companies through mentorship, access to resources at The Cannon, and networking opportunities within the Houston entrepreneurial community.
What is the expected return on investment?
The firm targets a return of 2-3x over a 5-8 year period, aligning its goals with both community impact and financial performance.
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