KB Partners
Description
KB Partners is a prominent venture capital firm based in Highland Park, Illinois, specializing in early-stage investments within the rapidly evolving sports and technology sector. Established with a clear vision, the firm targets companies at the intersection of these two dynamic industries, spanning Seed, Series A, and Series B rounds. Their strategic focus allows them to identify and nurture innovative solutions that are reshaping sports, fitness, and entertainment.
The firm's investment thesis centers on identifying disruptive technologies and business models that enhance athletic performance, fan engagement, media consumption, and operational efficiencies across the sports ecosystem. KB Partners actively seeks out companies with strong management teams, defensible intellectual property, and significant market potential. They are known for their hands-on approach, leveraging their deep industry expertise and extensive network to support portfolio companies beyond just capital infusion.
KB Partners typically deploys initial investments ranging from $1 million to $5 million, often taking a lead or co-lead position in funding rounds. This approach demonstrates their commitment to being a significant partner in their portfolio companies' growth trajectories. The firm also allocates substantial reserves for follow-on investments, supporting successful ventures through subsequent funding rounds. Their latest fund, KB Partners Fund IV, successfully closed in 2023 with $120 million in commitments, underscoring investor confidence in their specialized strategy and track record within the sports tech vertical. This capital enables them to continue backing promising startups and fostering innovation in the sector.
Investor Profile
KB Partners has backed more than 67 startups, with 1 new investments in the last 12 months alone. The firm has led 40 rounds, about 60% of its total and boasts 11 exits across its portfolio.
Investment Focus Highlights
- Concentrates on Seed, Series A, Series Unknown rounds (top funding stages).
- Majority of deals are located in United States, Canada, France.
- Strong thematic focus on Sports, Software, Information Technology.
- Led 1 rounds in the past year.
- Typical check size: $1M – $5M.
Stage Focus
- Seed (52%)
- Series A (15%)
- Series Unknown (10%)
- Series B (9%)
- Series C (6%)
- Series E (3%)
- Series D (3%)
- Series F (1%)
Country Focus
- United States (91%)
- Canada (4%)
- France (1%)
- United Kingdom (1%)
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- Israel (1%)
Industry Focus
- Sports
- Software
- Information Technology
- Health Care
- Media And Entertainment
- Fantasy Sports
- Gaming
- Manufacturing
- Mobile Apps
- Saas
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