
Fifty Years
Description
Fifty Years is an early-stage venture capital firm based in San Francisco, dedicated to backing entrepreneurs who are building for-profit companies designed to solve the world's most pressing problems. The firm operates on the conviction that generating significant financial returns and creating substantial positive societal impact are not mutually exclusive, but rather deeply intertwined. They actively seek out founders who are leveraging scientific and technological breakthroughs to address critical global challenges.
Fifty Years primarily invests at the pre-seed and seed stages, often serving as the first institutional capital for promising startups. Their typical initial check size ranges from $1 million to $2 million, providing crucial early funding for companies focused on areas such as climate, health, food, education, and other frontier technologies. The firm emphasizes a hands-on approach, providing strategic support and leveraging their network to help portfolio companies scale their solutions and maximize their impact.
Since its inception, Fifty Years has demonstrated a robust investment pace and commitment to its mission. The firm has successfully raised a total of $180 million across three funds, with their most recent fund closing at $90 million in 2022. To date, Fifty Years has made 108 investments, building a diverse portfolio of companies that are at the forefront of innovation aimed at creating a better future. Their unique position at the intersection of venture capital and global problem-solving makes them a distinctive player in the early-stage investment landscape.
Investor Profile
Fifty Years has backed more than 152 startups, with 3 new investments in the last 12 months alone. The firm has led 31 rounds, about 20% of its total and boasts 7 exits across its portfolio.
Investment Focus Highlights
- Concentrates on Seed, Series A, Pre Seed rounds (top funding stages).
- Majority of deals are located in United States, Canada, Germany.
- Strong thematic focus on Biotechnology, Health Care, Manufacturing.
- Led 1 rounds in the past year.
- Typical check size: $1M – $2M.
Stage Focus
- Seed (54%)
- Series A (24%)
- Pre Seed (10%)
- Series B (7%)
- Series C (3%)
- Series D (1%)
- Series Unknown (1%)
Country Focus
- United States (90%)
- Canada (2%)
- Germany (2%)
- United Kingdom (2%)
- Australia (1%)
- Switzerland (1%)
- Senegal (1%)
Industry Focus
- Biotechnology
- Health Care
- Manufacturing
- Medical
- Food And Beverage
- Software
- Artificial Intelligence (Ai)
- Genetics
- Biopharma
- Life Science
Frequently Asked Questions
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