New Stack Ventures

New Stack Ventures is a Chicago-based venture capital firm that specializes in early-stage investments, primarily targeting pre-seed and seed-stage companies. Founded with a focus on supporting startups from their nascent stages, the firm looks for companies that are pre-revenue, engaged in pilots or proofs-of-concept, or just beginning early commercialization. Their investment philosophy centers on identifying promising founders and disruptive technologies before they achieve widespread market recognition, providing crucial capital and strategic support during these formative periods.

The firm's investment thesis emphasizes a hands-on approach, working closely with portfolio companies to navigate the challenges of early growth. New Stack Ventures typically deploys initial checks ranging from $500,000 to $1.5 million, aiming to be a lead or co-lead investor in these rounds. They are known for their founder-friendly terms and a commitment to reserving follow-on capital for successful portfolio companies, supporting them through subsequent funding rounds as they scale. This strategic deployment of capital helps ensure long-term partnership and alignment with the startups' growth trajectories.

New Stack Ventures has demonstrated consistent growth in its capital base, reflecting its expanding influence in the early-stage ecosystem. The firm successfully raised its first fund of $10 million in 2017, followed by a $20 million Fund II in 2020, and a $35 million Fund III in 2022. Most recently, they announced a $50 million Fund IV in 2024, bringing their total committed capital to approximately $115 million across four funds. This steady increase in fund size allows New Stack Ventures to broaden its investment scope and deepen its support for a growing portfolio of innovative companies across various sectors.

Beyond capital, New Stack Ventures provides significant value-add through its operational expertise, extensive network, and mentorship. The firm leverages its experience to assist founders with critical aspects such as product-market fit, talent acquisition, strategic partnerships, and subsequent fundraising efforts. Their commitment to fostering a collaborative environment and providing tailored guidance positions them as a strategic partner for ambitious startups aiming to disrupt industries and achieve significant market impact.