
KBW Ventures
Description
KBW Ventures is the venture capital arm of Prince Khaled bin Alwaleed bin Talal Al Saud, a prominent Saudi Arabian investor and advocate for sustainable living. Based in San Mateo, California, the firm was established in 2018 with a clear mandate to invest in companies driving innovation in the plant-based, alternative protein, and sustainable technology sectors. Its investment philosophy is deeply rooted in the principles of animal welfare, environmental stewardship, and health-conscious consumer trends, reflecting Prince Khaled's personal commitment to these areas. The firm actively seeks out disruptive technologies and business models that align with a future-forward, ethical economy.
The firm's portfolio demonstrates a strong focus on companies developing cultivated meat, plant-based foods, and other sustainable solutions. Notable investments include Upside Foods (formerly Memphis Meats), a pioneer in cultivated meat, and BlueNalu, which focuses on cell-cultured seafood. KBW Ventures also backs companies like Rebellyous Foods and Plant Power Fast Food, which are expanding the accessibility and appeal of plant-based culinary options. Their investment strategy often involves participating in syndicated rounds, collaborating with other mission-aligned venture capital firms and institutional investors to support high-growth companies.
KBW Ventures typically acts as a follow-on investor, contributing to rounds across various stages, from Seed to Series B. While specific check sizes are not publicly disclosed, their participation in a $1.2 million Seed round for Bond Pet Foods indicates a willingness to engage with early-stage companies. Conversely, their involvement in a substantial $161 million Series B round for Upside Foods suggests the capacity for multi-million dollar investments in more mature, high-potential ventures. The firm's approach emphasizes long-term value creation, supporting its portfolio companies not just with capital but also through strategic guidance and network access within the burgeoning sustainable economy.
Investor Profile
KBW Ventures has backed more than 27 startups, with 5 new investments in the last 12 months alone. The firm has led 5 rounds, about 19% of its total and boasts 0 exits across its portfolio.
Investment Focus Highlights
- Concentrates on Seed, Series A, Convertible Note rounds (top funding stages).
- Majority of deals are located in United States, Singapore, United Arab Emirates.
- Strong thematic focus on Food and Beverage, Biotechnology, Food Processing.
- Led 2 rounds in the past year.
- Typical check size: $250K – $5M.
Stage Focus
- Seed (41%)
- Series A (19%)
- Convertible Note (11%)
- Pre Seed (11%)
- Series B (7%)
- Corporate Round (4%)
- Series Unknown (4%)
- Series D (4%)
Country Focus
- United States (59%)
- Singapore (15%)
- United Arab Emirates (11%)
- Saudi Arabia (4%)
- France (4%)
- Egypt (4%)
Industry Focus
- Food And Beverage
- Biotechnology
- Food Processing
- Health Care
- Alternative Protein
- Organic Food
- Software
- Nutrition
- Manufacturing
- Internet
Frequently Asked Questions
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