At a Glance
LAUNCH has established itself as a distinctive force in the venture capital ecosystem through its unique combination of media, events, and investment activities centered around founder Jason Calacanis. The Los Angeles-based firm operates at the intersection of traditional venture investing and startup community building, leveraging Calacanis's prominent media presence and extensive network to source and support early-stage companies. The firm's investment approach spans multiple stages from pre-seed through Series B+, with a particular focus on aerospace and defense, consumer technology, fintech, and climate solutions. LAUNCH's portfolio strategy reflects Calacanis's contrarian investment philosophy and his ability to identify emerging trends before they reach mainstream venture attention. The firm has made notable investments across various sectors, including companies that have gone on to achieve significant valuations and exits. What distinguishes LAUNCH from traditional VC firms is its multimedia approach to venture capital, combining investments with extensive content creation, podcasting, and startup events that serve both deal flow generation and portfolio company promotion. The firm's Los Angeles headquarters positions it strategically within the growing Southern California startup ecosystem, while maintaining strong ties to Silicon Valley and other major tech hubs. LAUNCH's investment philosophy emphasizes backing exceptional founders tackling large market opportunities, with particular attention to companies that can benefit from the firm's unique platform and network effects. The firm's reputation in the venture community stems from Calacanis's long history as an entrepreneur and angel investor, including early investments in companies like Uber and Robinhood, which have contributed to his credibility and deal flow access. LAUNCH's approach to venture capital reflects the evolving nature of the industry, where media presence and community building have become increasingly important components of successful investment strategies.
“Early-stage fund founded by Jason Calacanis focusing on startups with exceptional founders and transformative potential.”
Since its 2012 founding, LAUNCH has evolved from Jason Calacanis's angel investing activities into a more formalized venture capital operation. The firm has raised multiple funds over its history, expanding its investment capacity while maintaining focus on early-stage opportunities. The fund strategy has broadened over time to include later-stage investments while preserving its core emphasis on pre-seed and seed-stage companies.
LAUNCH primarily invests at the Pre-Seed, Seed, Series A, Series B+ stages. This means they focus on companies that are at the earliest idea or prototype phase.
LAUNCH is headquartered in Los Angeles, CA. Many of their portfolio companies are also based in this region, though they invest across geographies.
LAUNCH focuses on investments in Aerospace & Defense, Other, Consumer, Fintech, Climate. Their portfolio reflects deep expertise and networks within these sectors.
LAUNCH's typical investment check size ranges from $100K to $500K. Actual amounts may vary based on the stage, sector, and specific opportunity.
