Castor Ventures

Castor Ventures is a distinctive venture capital firm based in Boston, Massachusetts, uniquely positioned within the Harvard University alumni network. The firm operates as a dedicated fund that pools capital primarily from Harvard alumni, investing exclusively in companies founded or led by other Harvard alumni. This specialized focus allows Castor Ventures to leverage the vast intellectual and professional capital of the Harvard community, fostering a robust ecosystem for entrepreneurial ventures emerging from the university's graduates. Their mission extends beyond mere capital provision, aiming to connect alumni entrepreneurs with a network of experienced investors and mentors from their shared alma mater.

The firm's investment strategy targets early-stage companies, typically participating in Seed and Series A funding rounds. Castor Ventures maintains a broad sector agnostic approach, with a portfolio that spans diverse industries including enterprise software (SaaS), financial technology (FinTech), artificial intelligence and machine learning (AI/ML), healthcare, and consumer technology. They seek out promising startups that demonstrate strong leadership, innovative solutions, and significant market potential. Their commitment to the Harvard alumni network means they often provide not just financial backing but also strategic guidance and access to a powerful professional community.

Castor Ventures has demonstrated consistent activity and growth since its inception. For instance, their Castor Ventures Fund III successfully closed in 2021, raising $25 million to deploy into new opportunities. As of early 2023, the firm had built an impressive portfolio, having invested in over 100 companies across various stages of development. Typical initial check sizes for Castor Ventures generally range from $250,000 to $1,000,000, reflecting their focus on providing crucial early-stage capital to promising alumni-led ventures. This strategic investment approach underscores their role as a key enabler within the Harvard entrepreneurial landscape.