Human Ventures

Human Ventures is a New York City-based venture capital firm and venture studio that takes a distinctive approach to early-stage investing. Operating with a dual model, the firm both co-founds companies internally through its studio arm and invests in promising external startups, primarily at the pre-seed, seed, and occasionally Series A stages. Their investment philosophy centers on "human-centered" businesses, seeking to back founders who are building solutions that address fundamental human needs and improve daily life. This often translates into investments across sectors such as the future of work, health and wellness, consumer technology, fintech, and enterprise software.

The firm distinguishes itself by providing significant operational support and strategic guidance to its portfolio companies, leveraging its in-house expertise and extensive network. Beyond just capital, Human Ventures aims to be a true partner, helping founders navigate critical early challenges from product development and market fit to team building and fundraising strategy. This hands-on approach is particularly beneficial for nascent companies looking to establish strong foundations for scalable growth.

Human Ventures has demonstrated consistent growth in its funding capabilities. In 2023, the firm successfully closed its third fund, Human Ventures Fund III, at $75 million, significantly expanding its capacity to support new ventures. This follows previous funds, including a $50 million Fund II. Regarding their investment scope, Human Ventures typically deploys initial checks ranging from $750,000 to $2 million, targeting companies that align with their thesis and show strong potential for disruption and impact. Their focus remains on leading or co-leading early funding rounds, providing the critical first capital that enables startups to achieve key milestones.

The firm's hybrid studio-fund model allows it to generate proprietary deal flow while also being agile in identifying and backing external opportunities. This unique structure, combined with a deep commitment to founder support, positions Human Ventures as a notable player in the early-stage venture ecosystem, particularly for entrepreneurs looking for more than just financial backing.