Flying Fox Ventures

Flying Fox Ventures is a prominent early-stage venture capital firm based in Melbourne, Australia, with a strong focus on the Australian and New Zealand startup ecosystems. Established as a community-driven fund, it differentiates itself by being backed by a large network of over 100 founders, operators, and investors. This unique structure provides its portfolio companies with access to a rich pool of expertise and mentorship, beyond just capital. The firm primarily targets pre-seed and seed-stage startups, aiming to be the first institutional cheque for promising new ventures.

The firm's investment thesis centers on identifying high-potential startups that are poised for significant growth, often leveraging the insights and networks of its extensive community. Flying Fox Ventures typically deploys initial cheques ranging from AUD $250,000 to AUD $750,000. This translates to approximately $165,000 to $495,000 USD, based on recent exchange rates, positioning them as a crucial early capital provider for nascent companies. They are known for their hands-on approach, supporting founders not only with funding but also with strategic guidance and operational support.

Flying Fox Ventures has demonstrated consistent growth in its funding capabilities, having successfully raised multiple funds. Their first fund, Fund I, closed at AUD $10 million (approximately $6.6 million USD), and they followed this with Fund II, which secured AUD $20 million (approximately $13.2 million USD). As of early 2024, the firm has made over 50 investments, backing a diverse range of companies across various sectors. Their portfolio includes notable Australian success stories such as Linktree, Eucalyptus, and Dovetail, underscoring their ability to identify and nurture future market leaders. This track record solidifies their position as a key player in the ANZ startup funding landscape.