Riot Ventures

Riot Ventures is a Los Angeles-based venture capital firm with a distinct focus on deep technology, particularly at the intersection of industrial and defense applications. The firm has steadily grown its capital base, recently closing its third fund, Fund III, at $100 million in March 2023. This substantial capital pool underscores their commitment to backing foundational technological advancements that promise to reshape critical sectors. Riot Ventures primarily targets early-stage companies, investing in Seed and Series A rounds, where they can provide significant strategic and financial support to nascent ventures.

The firm's investment thesis centers on technologies that enable intelligence, sensing and control, advanced communications, mobility, and robust security solutions. They seek out companies developing cutting-edge hardware and software that can be deployed across various demanding environments, from industrial automation to national security infrastructure. Their portfolio reflects a commitment to innovation in areas like advanced manufacturing, robotics, AI-driven analytics, and specialized communication systems, often with dual-use potential for both commercial and government applications.

Riot Ventures positions itself as a hands-on partner, leveraging its team's operational expertise and network within the deep tech ecosystem. They aim to support founders not just with capital but also with strategic guidance, market access, and talent acquisition. With their latest fund, the firm typically writes initial checks ranging from $1 million to $5 million, allowing them to lead or co-lead significant early-stage rounds. This strategic investment size enables them to take meaningful positions in companies poised for substantial growth and disruption in their specialized domains. Their disciplined approach to identifying and nurturing high-potential deep tech startups has established them as a notable player in the venture capital landscape.