Foreword Ventures

Foreword Ventures is a San Francisco-based early-stage micro fund dedicated to supporting startups during their foundational pre-seed and seed stages. Founded by Ryan Sweeney and Ben Savage, the firm distinguishes itself through a concentrated, hands-on approach, aiming to be a deeply involved partner rather than just a capital provider. Their investment thesis centers on backing companies that demonstrate strong product-led growth, with a particular interest in sectors such as developer tools, artificial intelligence/machine learning (AI/ML), and vertical SaaS solutions.

The firm operates with a clear strategy of providing initial capital that typically ranges from $250,000 to $750,000. This focused check size allows them to engage meaningfully with a select number of portfolio companies, providing strategic guidance and operational support as these nascent businesses navigate their initial chapters. Foreword Ventures has successfully raised two funds to date, starting with Foreword Ventures Fund I, which closed at $10 million, followed by Foreword Ventures Fund II, which secured $20 million. This progression in fund size reflects their growing capacity and commitment to the early-stage ecosystem.

Foreword Ventures' model emphasizes deep engagement, leveraging the experience of its founders to help portfolio companies refine their product-market fit, scale their operations, and prepare for subsequent funding rounds. Their commitment to early-stage ventures, coupled with sector-specific expertise in high-growth areas like AI/ML and developer tools, positions them as a valuable partner for founders building the next generation of technology companies.