Compound

Compound, a New York-based venture capital firm, distinguishes itself through a "thesis-driven, research-centric" approach to early-stage investing. The firm primarily targets seed and Series A rounds, focusing on groundbreaking technologies and scientific advancements. Their investment philosophy emphasizes deep engagement with founders, providing not just capital but also strategic guidance and operational support to help nascent companies navigate complex challenges and achieve significant growth.

The firm has a strong track record of backing companies at the forefront of innovation, with a particular interest in deep tech, artificial intelligence, robotics, biotech, and other frontier technologies. Compound seeks out ventures that are developing proprietary intellectual property and have the potential to disrupt established industries or create entirely new markets. Their portfolio reflects this focus, featuring companies that are pushing the boundaries of what's possible across various scientific and technological domains.

Compound has demonstrated its commitment to the early-stage ecosystem through substantial fundraises. For instance, the firm closed its fourth fund, Compound IV, at $100 million in 2020, followed by a larger fifth fund, Compound V, raising $200 million in 2022. These funds enable Compound to typically write initial checks ranging from $500,000 to $5,000,000, depending on the stage and needs of the startup. This strategic capital deployment, coupled with their hands-on support, positions Compound as a significant partner for founders building the next generation of transformative companies.