Core Innovation Capital

Core Innovation Capital (CIC) is a prominent San Francisco-based venture capital firm with a dedicated focus on the financial services sector, particularly fintech. The firm's investment thesis centers on empowering small businesses and consumers through innovative technology solutions. CIC positions itself as an investor across various stages, from Seed to Growth, seeking out companies that are leveraging technology to enhance financial inclusion, efficiency, and access. Their strategic approach involves not just capital injection but also providing operational and strategic support to help their portfolio companies scale and achieve market leadership.

The firm's investment strategy is characterized by a deep understanding of the financial ecosystem and a commitment to disruptive models. While they invest across stages, Core Innovation Capital typically targets initial investments ranging from $2 million to $7 million in Series A and Series B rounds, indicating a preference for companies that have achieved some initial traction. This enables them to provide substantial early-stage capital while reserving capacity for follow-on investments as companies mature. Their portfolio reflects a diverse range of fintech innovations, from personal finance management to payment processing and lending platforms.

Core Innovation Capital has demonstrated significant fundraising success, underscoring its strong market presence and investor confidence. In 2018, the firm successfully closed its third fund, Core Innovation Capital Fund III, with $100 million in commitments. Building on this momentum, they further solidified their position by closing Core Innovation Capital Fund IV, L.P. at $150 million in 2021. These funds allow CIC to back a robust pipeline of promising fintech ventures, including notable companies like NerdWallet, Oportun, and Marqeta, which have gone on to achieve significant milestones and market impact. Their continued focus on the evolving financial landscape positions them as a key player in the fintech venture capital space.