
Lighthouse Capital Partners
Description
Lighthouse Capital Partners, based in Menlo Park, California, stands as a prominent and long-established provider of venture debt to technology, life science, and clean tech companies. Since its inception in 1994, the firm has carved out a significant niche in the venture ecosystem by offering non-dilutive capital solutions to early- and growth-stage businesses. Unlike traditional venture capital firms that take equity stakes, Lighthouse Capital Partners provides loans, allowing founders to retain greater ownership while still securing essential funding for growth and operational needs.
The firm's investment strategy is centered on supporting venture-backed companies that have already demonstrated traction and secured equity financing. Lighthouse's venture debt facilities are often utilized by companies looking to extend their cash runway, bridge between equity rounds, or fund specific growth initiatives without further diluting existing shareholders. This approach makes them a valuable partner for companies aiming to maximize their valuation ahead of future equity raises or achieve profitability without additional equity infusions.
Over its nearly three decades of operation, Lighthouse Capital Partners has demonstrated substantial scale and impact within the venture landscape. The firm has provided over $2.5 billion in capital to more than 1,000 companies, underscoring its extensive reach and consistent activity. Their typical loan sizes range from $5 million to $50 million, catering to a diverse set of companies from promising startups to more mature, rapidly expanding enterprises. This flexibility in funding amounts allows them to support a broad spectrum of companies across various stages of development, complementing the capital provided by traditional equity investors.
Investor Profile
Lighthouse Capital Partners has backed more than 52 startups, with 0 new investments in the last 12 months alone. The firm has led 4 rounds, about 8% of its total and boasts 24 exits across its portfolio.
Investment Focus Highlights
- Concentrates on Series A, Series C, Series B rounds (top funding stages).
- Majority of deals are located in United States, China, United Kingdom.
- Strong thematic focus on Manufacturing, Internet, Telecommunications.
- Typical check size: $5M – $50M.
Stage Focus
- Series A (23%)
- Series C (21%)
- Series B (13%)
- Series Unknown (13%)
- Series D (8%)
- Debt Financing (6%)
- Series E (4%)
- Angel (4%)
- Series F (2%)
- Private Equity (2%)
Country Focus
- United States (75%)
- China (19%)
- United Kingdom (2%)
- Germany (2%)
- Spain (2%)
Industry Focus
- Manufacturing
- Internet
- Telecommunications
- Software
- Enterprise Software
- Information Technology
- Health Care
- Saas
- Communications Infrastructure
- Medical
Frequently Asked Questions
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