We are an early-stage venture capital firm that invests in ambitious, growth-focused companies, backing a new generation of economic prosperity for the Midcontinent region.
WHERE WE INVEST
We invest in capital efficient businesses that leverage technology to scale in the Fintech, Biotech, Aerospace, Ag Tech, Energy Tech, Manufacturing and Logistics sectors.
We look for outstanding teams, building truly differentiated products, in large addressable markets.
WHAT WE OFFER
It’s more than capital. We leverage our team’s deep experience as leaders and innovators to position our portfolio companies for accelerated growth.
How We Accomplish This.
- Building roadmaps for growth
- Tapping into our expansive networks to identify new customers
- Identifying cost effective vendors and suppliers
- Building strong, successful companies from the inside out
- Leveraging our M&A and growth strategy experience to position our companies for long-term success
INVESTMENT CRITERIA
Founder Led
Entrepreneurs with innovative ideas that think outside-the-box
Oklahoma Focused
Companies operating in sectors that are a natural fit for the Midcontinent
B2B Tech
Companies with disruptive technologies and B2B strategies
Sector Focused
Insurtech, Biotech, Aerospace, Fintech, Energy Tech, Ag Tech
Growth Minded
Young companies with a desire to grow fast
Capital Efficient
Companies that leverage tech to scale quickly
Our Check Sizes
We invest in pre-seed through follow-on investment stages.
Pre-Seed / Seed
Check Size: $200K – $500K
We will invest $200 – $500K in a convertible or SAFE note and introduce angel investors to co-invest
Seed+ through Series A
Check Size: $500K – $2.5M
We will either lead to be a catalyst or invest alongside other proven investors
Follow-On Strategy
Keep 40-50% in reserve for follow-on investment
Follow-on up to 2 rounds, potentially to Series B
We look for ambitious entrepreneurs who have innovative ideas and a desire to generate economic prosperity in the Midcontinent.
Our Approach
01
Introduction
We review over 500 startups each year to determine investment thesis fit, including:
- Minimum viable product (MVP)
- B2B strategy in a sector with strong market presence in the Midcontinent
- Pre-seed/seed round of at least $250K, or an equity round of at least $1M
02
Initial Pitch
We narrow down the basket to 100 entrepreneurs, inviting them to pitch their idea to the team
03
Initial Screening
Up to 40 startups are selected for initial due diligence, including our “Market Fit Matrix” analysis and Subject Matter Expert detailed review led by our strategic network
04
Deep Diligence
We invite 20 startups to participate in additional diligence, including financial statements, IP protection, organization documents, and our proprietary “Founder Profile” evaluation
Let’s Get Formally Introduced.
CORTADO VENTURES