Maveron

Maveron is a distinguished venture capital firm exclusively focused on the consumer sector, co-founded by Dan Levitan and Starbucks founder Howard Schultz. Established with a unique thesis that consumer behavior drives market opportunities, Maveron has consistently invested in disruptive brands that resonate directly with modern consumers. Their investment philosophy centers on identifying companies with strong product-market fit, compelling brand narratives, and scalable business models, aiming to empower consumers to live on their own terms. The firm's deep expertise in consumer markets allows them to provide significant strategic value beyond capital, helping portfolio companies navigate the complexities of brand building, customer acquisition, and market expansion.

The firm primarily targets Seed and Series A stage companies, often taking a lead or co-lead position in funding rounds. Maveron is known for its hands-on approach, working closely with founders to refine their vision, build strong teams, and accelerate growth. They seek out businesses that are not just innovative but also possess the potential to become category leaders, demonstrating a clear path to profitability and sustained consumer engagement. Their portfolio spans a diverse range of consumer verticals, including e-commerce, health and wellness, education, and digital services, reflecting their broad interpretation of the evolving consumer landscape.

Maveron has a robust fundraising history, enabling them to support their portfolio companies through various growth stages. In 2021, the firm successfully closed its eighth fund, Maveron Fund VIII, raising $225 million to continue its investment strategy in early-stage consumer ventures. This was followed by another successful close of Maveron Fund IX, also at $225 million, in 2023, underscoring investor confidence in their specialized approach. For initial investments, Maveron typically writes first checks ranging from $1 million to $10 million, demonstrating their flexibility to support both nascent ideas and more developed early-stage companies. This strategic capital deployment, combined with their operational expertise, positions Maveron as a key partner for ambitious consumer startups.