
AfterWork Ventures
Description
AfterWork Ventures is a pioneering venture capital firm based in Sydney, Australia, distinguished by its innovative community-powered fund model. Established in 2020, the firm leverages a vast network of over 100 experienced operators, founders, and executives, known as "AfterWorkers," who contribute deal flow, conduct due diligence, and provide ongoing support to portfolio companies. This unique approach allows AfterWork Ventures to tap into deep industry expertise and offer more than just capital to early-stage startups across Australia and New Zealand.
The firm primarily focuses on pre-seed and seed-stage technology and software companies, aligning with its mission to back the next generation of ANZ innovators. AfterWork Ventures has demonstrated rapid growth in its fundraising efforts, successfully closing three funds since its inception. Their first fund raised A$5 million, followed by a A$10 million second fund, and most recently, a A$20 million third fund, bringing their total committed capital to A$35 million. Their typical initial cheque size ranges from A$250,000 to A$750,000, which translates to approximately $165,000 to $495,000 USD based on a 0.66 AUD/USD exchange rate.
With a portfolio exceeding 100 investments, AfterWork Ventures has quickly become a significant player in the Australian and New Zealand startup ecosystem. The firm's model emphasizes providing hands-on support and strategic guidance, connecting founders with relevant experts from their extensive network. This community-driven ethos not only helps de-risk early-stage investments but also fosters a collaborative environment designed to accelerate the growth and success of their portfolio companies.
Investor Profile
AfterWork Ventures has backed more than 39 startups, with 5 new investments in the last 12 months alone. The firm has led 4 rounds, about 10% of its total and boasts 2 exits across its portfolio.
Investment Focus Highlights
- Concentrates on Seed, Pre Seed, Series B rounds (top funding stages).
- Majority of deals are located in Australia, United States, United Kingdom.
- Strong thematic focus on Software, FinTech, Information Technology.
- Led 2 rounds in the past year.
- Typical check size: $165K – $495K.
Stage Focus
- Seed (38%)
- Pre Seed (28%)
- Series B (13%)
- Series A (10%)
- Series C (3%)
- Series D (3%)
- Series Unknown (3%)
- Equity Crowdfunding (3%)
Country Focus
- Australia (51%)
- United States (26%)
- United Kingdom (13%)
- Singapore (5%)
- Canada (3%)
- New Zealand (3%)
Industry Focus
- Software
- Fintech
- Information Technology
- Real Estate
- Artificial Intelligence (Ai)
- Machine Learning
- Health Care
- Financial Services
- Marketplace
- Real Estate Investment
Frequently Asked Questions
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