LongJump

LongJump is a Chicago-based first-check venture capital fund established in 2021, specifically designed to back the next generation of founders. The firm primarily focuses on pre-seed and seed-stage companies, aiming to be among the earliest institutional investors in promising startups. While rooted in Chicago, its investment scope extends nationally, seeking out innovative companies across various geographies.

The fund emphasizes supporting founders from diverse backgrounds and geographies, reflecting a commitment to broadening access to venture capital. LongJump is notably backed by a consortium of experienced operators and investors, bringing a wealth of practical knowledge to their portfolio companies. In 2022, the firm successfully closed its inaugural fund, LongJump Fund I, at $12 million, demonstrating significant confidence from its limited partners and positioning it as a key player in early-stage funding.

LongJump typically deploys initial checks ranging from $250,000 to $500,000, making it a crucial early-stage capital provider for nascent startups. This investment size allows them to participate meaningfully in early funding rounds, often alongside other seed investors. Beyond capital, the fund leverages its network of operator-LPs to provide hands-on support, mentorship, and strategic guidance to its portfolio companies, aiming to accelerate their growth and mitigate common startup challenges. Their approach is designed to be founder-friendly, offering more than just financial backing.