Samsung Catalyst Fund

Samsung Catalyst Fund (SCF), based in Menlo Park, California, operates as a multi-stage venture capital fund under the umbrella of Samsung Electronics. Established in 2013, SCF is designed to foster innovation by investing in disruptive technologies and groundbreaking ideas that align with Samsung's long-term strategic vision. Unlike traditional venture capital firms, SCF functions as an evergreen fund, providing flexible capital and long-term support to its portfolio companies. Its mission extends beyond mere financial investment, aiming to transform nascent ideas into scalable products through strategic guidance, technical expertise, and access to Samsung's vast global ecosystem.

SCF primarily targets deep technology companies across various critical sectors. Its core investment areas include artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), automotive solutions, data centers, cloud infrastructure, digital health, and next-generation semiconductors. The fund seeks out companies developing foundational technologies with strong intellectual property and significant market potential. SCF is stage-agnostic, investing from early-stage (Seed and Series A) through growth-stage rounds (Series B, C, and beyond), demonstrating a commitment to supporting companies throughout their lifecycle. This multi-stage approach allows them to identify promising ventures at their inception and continue to fuel their growth.

While specific investment amounts can vary widely based on the stage and needs of the company, Samsung Catalyst Fund typically deploys initial checks ranging from approximately $1 million to $10 million for early-stage and growth-stage companies. For instance, they have participated in numerous Series A rounds where their contribution would fall within this range, while also contributing to much larger later-stage rounds. Beyond capital, SCF offers significant strategic value by connecting portfolio companies with Samsung's extensive resources, including R&D capabilities, manufacturing expertise, global distribution channels, and potential partnership opportunities. This unique access helps accelerate product development, market penetration, and overall business scaling, providing a distinct advantage for their portfolio companies in competitive technology landscapes. The fund has built a diverse portfolio, with investments in over 100 companies since its inception.