Zelkova Ventures
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Jay Levy is one of those rare VCs who actually gets in the trenches with founders - he's invested 6x into some companies and averages 3x follow-on investment per deal, which shows real conviction. The 35 exits over 15+ years and concentrated portfolio approach (6-8 deals per year) suggests they pick carefully and support deeply rather than spray and pray. However, Larry Scheinfeld is much less visible in the ecosystem and their social presence is surprisingly quiet for a fund that's been around since 2008. The Miami move could be a smart geographic arbitrage play, but founders should know this isn't a brand-name fund that opens doors - it's more about getting patient capital and hands-on operational help from someone who's actually built companies.
- —Best for: Pre-revenue B2B SaaS founders who want hands-on operators, not just check writers
- —Known for: Deep follow-on support - invests 3x average in each company with strong conviction
- —Watch out for: Limited brand recognition and network effects compared to tier-one funds
Zelkova Ventures invests in early stage technology companies, often providing first outside institutional capital to pre-revenue B2B SaaS startups. They focus on software-as-a-service, internet media, and green tech companies, working hands-on with founders to develop customer acquisition and funding strategies.
Early-stage B2B SaaS investor, primarily seed and Series A rounds ($200K-$3M checks). Despite marketing claims about greentech, their actual portfolio is heavily concentrated in enterprise software, business productivity tools, and consumer internet companies. Sweet spot is 100K-1M ARR companies raising their first institutional capital.
Serial entrepreneur turned VC who started his first company in high school. Former Morgan Stanley analyst with 15+ years investing experience and 90+ startup investments. Known as hands-on operator who co-invests frequently with portfolio companies - has invested 3x average in each company. Relocated from NYC to Miami recently and is a Techstars mentor.
Former hedge fund and private equity executive at Quellos Group (acquired by BlackRock). Focuses on strategic funding and customer acquisition for portfolio companies. Board member at multiple nonprofits including Starlight Foundation. Less visible than Jay in the ecosystem but brings traditional finance background to the partnership.
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