Zeal Capital Partners

Zeal Capital Partners is an early-stage venture capital firm based in Washington, D.C., committed to fostering innovation within the financial services and future of work sectors. The firm distinguishes itself by actively seeking out and partnering with exceptional diverse management teams, believing that diverse perspectives drive superior business outcomes and address underserved markets. Their investment thesis centers on identifying companies that are not only poised for significant growth but also contribute to a more inclusive economy.

The firm's strategic focus areas include FinTech, encompassing areas like payments, lending, wealth management, and insurtech, as well as the Future of Work, which includes EdTech, HRTech, and workforce development solutions. Zeal Capital Partners typically invests at the seed and early-stage venture rounds, providing crucial capital and strategic support to nascent companies. Their commitment to empowering underrepresented founders and addressing systemic inequities is a core tenet of their investment philosophy, aiming to bridge capital gaps for entrepreneurs often overlooked by traditional venture capital.

Zeal Capital Partners has demonstrated its fundraising capabilities and market confidence through the successful closure of two significant funds. Their inaugural fund, the Inclusion Fund I, closed at $22.3 million in 2021, marking their entry into the venture landscape. Building on this momentum, the firm subsequently closed its second fund, the Inclusion Fund II, at a substantial $62.2 million in October 2023. These fund sizes underscore their capacity to deploy meaningful capital into their target sectors. While specific check sizes can vary based on the stage and needs of the company, Zeal Capital Partners typically provides initial investments ranging from $500,000 to $2 million, positioning them as a key early-stage investor for promising ventures.