Flying Fish Partners
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This is the rare fund where the 'former Microsoft AI operators' tagline isn't just marketing fluff - Chang and Harris actually built speech and NLP tech at Microsoft before becoming VCs. They lead rounds fast and help founders syndicate quickly so they can get back to building, with a hands-on approach that adapts to whatever each company needs rather than following a rigid playbook. Portfolio companies genuinely praise their AI/ML expertise and 'roll-up-their-sleeves approach,' plus their commitment to diversity. They've expanded beyond their Pacific Northwest roots after proving their thesis, now seeing deal flow across the U.S. and Canada. The risk? They're still relatively small with limited dry powder compared to the AI funding arms race, and their sweet spot may be getting squeezed as seed rounds inflate.
- —Best for: Technical AI/ML founders who want investors who actually understand the tech stack
- —Known for: Fast decisions, hands-on support, and genuine AI expertise from Microsoft veterans
- —Watch out for: Limited fund size in an increasingly expensive AI market
Flying Fish believes artificial intelligence and machine learning will disrupt every industry and are looking for the next generation leaders in every field who are building companies with machine learning at the heart of their strategy. The fund invests in applied and platform AI/ML startups as well as supporting tools and infrastructure.
Early-stage focused with investments from $500K-$1.5M at pre-seed and seed stages, primarily in AI/ML, developer tools, SaaS, fintech, and cybersecurity. They engage in seed, Series A, and Series B funding rounds. Their portfolio is heavy on Enterprise Applications (32 investments) and High Tech (18 investments).
Former VP and general counsel at Indix with a career spanning technology and legal industries. Previously held executive roles at companies including AtomShockwave and Impinj, serves on boards of major Seattle organizations. Known for her exceptional network and skill in helping founders find first customers in obscure industries.
Former Microsoft and Amazon executive who worked on speech and natural language processing at Microsoft and was VP of technical program management for Audible. He and Harris spent a combined ten years solving fundamental AI and ML problems before starting the firm.
Microsoft veteran with background in natural language processing, machine learning, and digital commerce. Sits on the Seattle Angel Board of Directors and mentors local startups. Combined with Chang, they have deep technical AI/ML expertise from their Microsoft days.
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