Okapi Venture Capital

Okapi Venture Capital, based in Laguna Beach, California, is an early-stage venture capital firm primarily focused on investments in the information technology and life sciences sectors. Established with a commitment to providing long-term capital and strategic management support, Okapi targets promising startups from Seed to Series A stages. The firm emphasizes a hands-on approach, working closely with founders to navigate growth challenges and achieve significant milestones, often taking board seats to actively guide portfolio companies.

Okapi's investment strategy is characterized by its patient capital and a willingness to lead or co-lead rounds. Their investment thesis centers on identifying disruptive technologies and innovative solutions within their target industries. Over its operational history, Okapi has demonstrated consistent growth in its fund sizes, reflecting increasing capital deployment capabilities. For instance, their third fund, Okapi Venture Capital III, closed in 2018 with $100 million, following a $75 million second fund in 2012 and a $40 million inaugural fund in 2005. This progression underscores their expanding capacity and continued commitment to the early-stage ecosystem.

Typically, Okapi Venture Capital deploys initial checks ranging from $1 million to $5 million. However, the firm maintains significant reserves for follow-on investments, often committing up to $10 million or more throughout the lifecycle of a portfolio company, supporting them through subsequent funding rounds. Their diverse portfolio spans various sub-sectors within IT, including enterprise software, SaaS, and cybersecurity, and within life sciences, encompassing biotech, medical devices, and digital health. With over 70 investments and more than 10 successful exits to date, Okapi has built a track record of identifying and nurturing high-potential ventures, contributing to the growth of the Southern California tech and biotech landscape and beyond.