Logo

Base Ventures

We support our founders by being uniquely resourceful and always on. We’re honest, even when the conversations are tough.

California City, CA, USA

Apply

Description

Base Ventures is a seed-stage venture capital firm based in Berkeley, California. Founded by Erik Moore, it is known for being one of the first Black-led institutional VC firms in Silicon Valley and focuses on being an early "believer" in technology-driven startups. While they invest early, they typically look for a functional Minimum Viable Product (MVP) and a clear technical vision. 
  • Founder-Focused: Base Ventures does not have a standardized "batch" application. They prioritize the founder's pedigree, vision, and ability to execute.
  • Direct Inquiry: Founders typically connect through professional networks or the Base Ventures Website.
  • Pitch Requirements: A standard pitch deck focusing on the problem, technical solution, and "why now" is essential.

Eligibility

  • Sector Focus: Technology-agnostic, but with a strong interest in SaaS, Consumer Tech, AI, and Frontier Tech.
  • Geography: Primarily headquartered in North America (with a strong Silicon Valley/Bay Area focus), but they invest globally.
  • Philosophy: They seek "extraordinary founders building technology that will change the world." 

Process

  1. Sourcing: They utilize a vast network of Silicon Valley veterans and entrepreneurs to find "outlier" founders.
  2. Conviction Building: The investment team conducts deep dives into the founder's insight and the market's potential for disruption.
  3. Active Partnership: Post-investment, they act as a strategic advisor, helping with subsequent fundraising and connecting founders to a massive ecosystem of co-investors. 

What an Applicant can Obtain

  • Capital: Access to early-stage venture capital to move from seed to Series A.
  • Network: Direct access to a "who's who" of Silicon Valley; Erik Moore was an early investor in Zappos, and the firm’s network reflects that level of connectivity.
  • Mentorship: Strategic guidance on team building and product-market fit from experienced venture partners.