Cox Enterprises

Cox Enterprises, a privately held, diversified conglomerate based in Atlanta, Georgia, is an active strategic investor through its corporate development and venture capital arm, Cox Investments. With a rich history spanning over 125 years, the company's investment strategy is deeply intertwined with its core businesses in communications (Cox Communications), automotive services (Cox Automotive), and media, while also aggressively expanding into new, high-growth sectors. Their approach is not merely financial but strategic, seeking to foster innovation that aligns with their long-term vision and operational strengths.

The firm's investment focus has broadened significantly in recent years, with a strong emphasis on sustainability, cleantech, agritech, smart communities, and advanced mobility solutions. Cox Enterprises views these areas as critical for future growth and societal impact, leveraging its substantial resources to support companies that are developing disruptive technologies and business models. For instance, the company has demonstrated a significant commitment to environmental stewardship, having invested over $1 billion in cleantech and sustainable businesses since 2007. This strategic pivot highlights their dedication to building a more sustainable future through venture capital.

Cox Investments typically targets growth-stage companies, participating in Series A through later-stage rounds, though they are open to earlier investments for highly strategic opportunities. Their check sizes can vary widely depending on the stage and strategic importance of the investment, ranging from several million dollars for early-stage participation to tens of millions for growth equity rounds. A notable example of their commitment to emerging sectors is their pledge to invest $100 million in sustainable agriculture and food technology companies by 2025, underscoring their proactive role in transforming key industries. They seek to be long-term partners, providing not just capital but also operational expertise and access to their vast network and customer base.