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Level Up Ventures

We are a mission driven investment vehicle created to close the wealth gap through investment in high growth startups led by founders who have experienced barriers to accessing capital.

New York, NY, USA

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Description

Level Up Ventures is a New York-based venture capital firm and studio that specializes in backing Black and Latino founders. Founded as a partnership with Hearst, it focuses on closing the racial funding gap by providing high-touch operational support and capital to underrepresented entrepreneurs building high-growth technology companies. 
  • Pre-Seed & Seed: This is the firm’s core focus. They typically invest in "Day 0" or "Day 1" companies that are building their initial product or seeking their first institutional check.
  • Post-Product Preference: While they are early-stage, they prioritize companies that have a functional Minimum Viable Product (MVP) and are beginning to show early signs of market traction. 
  • Method: Founders can apply through the Level Up Ventures intake form or via professional referrals.
  • Transparent Sourcing: Unlike many traditional firms, they do not require a "warm intro" and actively encourage direct outreach from underrepresented founders.
  • Materials: A pitch deck that clearly outlines the problem, the founder's unique technical or market insight, and the current product status is required. 
  • Rolling Basis: Level Up Ventures evaluates and invests in companies year-round.

Eligibility

  • Founder Profile: At least one founder must identify as Black or Latino with a significant equity stake.
  • Sectors: Core focus on SaaS, Fintech, Consumer Tech, HealthTech, and the Future of Work.
  • Geography: Primarily United States-based companies. 

Process

  1. Founder Screening: Initial review focuses on the founder's grit, domain expertise, and the scalability of the technology.
  2. Diligence: A 4–6 week process that includes market analysis and technical review.
  3. Active Partnership: Post-investment, founders gain access to the Hearst network and a curated group of "Operators-in-Residence" for help with product, marketing, and sales.
  4. Community Hub: Founders are integrated into a community of peer entrepreneurs for shared learning and resource exchange.

What an Applicant can Obtain

  1. Direct Capital: Funding from a firm with deep financial backing and a long-term commitment to diversity.
  2. Hearst Ecosystem: Potential introductions to Hearst’s massive portfolio of media, data, and business service companies for pilots or partnerships.
  3. Operational Support: Hands-on assistance in defining go-to-market strategies and hiring early key employees.
  4. Follow-on Support: Direct help in navigating subsequent fundraising rounds and introductions to Series A venture firms.