Cleveland Avenue

Cleveland Avenue is a Chicago-based venture capital firm with a distinct focus on the food, beverage, and restaurant technology sectors, alongside broader consumer products and services. Founded by Don Thompson, the former President and CEO of McDonald's Corporation, the firm leverages its deep industry expertise and operational insights to identify and support disruptive innovations. Their strategic approach extends beyond capital provision, offering portfolio companies invaluable guidance in scaling operations, market expansion, and brand development, particularly within the complex food ecosystem.

The firm employs a flexible, stage-agnostic investment strategy, deploying capital across seed, early-stage, later-stage, and growth-stage companies. This allows them to engage with promising ventures at various points in their lifecycle, from nascent startups to established businesses seeking to accelerate growth. Cleveland Avenue successfully closed its second fund, Cleveland Avenue Food & Beverage Fund II, at $100 million in June 2022, building on the success of its inaugural $70 million fund. This capital is strategically deployed to back companies poised to redefine consumer experiences and operational efficiencies in their target markets.

Cleveland Avenue's portfolio reflects its commitment to innovation, featuring a diverse array of companies ranging from alternative protein ventures and sustainable packaging solutions to advanced restaurant automation and direct-to-consumer food brands. The firm's unique value proposition stems from its team's extensive operational backgrounds, which enables them to provide hands-on support and strategic mentorship. This operational acumen, combined with financial backing, positions Cleveland Avenue as a highly engaged partner for entrepreneurs aiming to navigate the competitive landscape of the consumer and food industries.