Simon Property Group

Simon Property Group, a prominent global leader in retail real estate, extended its strategic reach into the innovation ecosystem with the establishment of Simon Ventures in 2018. This dedicated venture capital arm was launched with a substantial $100 million debut fund, signaling Simon's commitment to investing in the future of retail and commerce. The formation of Simon Ventures reflects the company's proactive approach to identifying and nurturing disruptive technologies and business models that can complement its vast portfolio of regional malls, premium outlets, and lifestyle centers.

Simon Ventures primarily focuses on early-stage companies operating within the "next-gen retail and commerce" landscape. This encompasses a broad spectrum of innovations, including retail technology solutions, e-commerce platforms, emerging consumer brands, and novel retail concepts designed to enhance the customer experience or optimize operational efficiencies. The typical first check sizes for these investments range from $1 million to $5 million, targeting startups poised for significant growth and strategic alignment with Simon's core business interests.

Beyond providing capital, Simon Ventures offers its portfolio companies invaluable access to Simon Property Group's extensive industry network, deep market insights, and unparalleled physical retail footprint. This strategic partnership allows startups to test and scale their innovations within real-world retail environments, leveraging Simon's vast consumer base and operational expertise. The venture arm seeks to foster a symbiotic relationship where innovative companies can thrive, while simultaneously contributing to the evolution and resilience of the broader retail ecosystem. This initiative underscores Simon Property Group's commitment to remaining at the forefront of retail innovation, adapting to changing consumer behaviors, and exploring new avenues for growth beyond traditional real estate ownership.