
Powerhouse Ventures
Description
Powerhouse Ventures is an Oakland, California-based venture capital firm dedicated to accelerating the decarbonization of global energy and mobility systems. The firm primarily invests in seed-stage software startups that leverage innovative technology to address critical climate challenges. Their investment thesis centers on a software-first approach, recognizing the transformative potential of digital solutions in driving efficiency, intelligence, and sustainability across the energy and transportation sectors. Powerhouse seeks out companies with strong founding teams, defensible intellectual property, and scalable business models poised to make a significant environmental and economic impact.
Powerhouse Ventures typically provides initial checks ranging from $500,000 to $1.5 million, focusing on early-stage companies that are developing groundbreaking software solutions. Beyond capital, the firm offers strategic support, leveraging its deep industry expertise and extensive network within the energy and climate tech ecosystems. This hands-on approach helps portfolio companies navigate market complexities, secure follow-on funding, and scale their operations effectively. Their commitment extends to fostering a community of innovators dedicated to building a sustainable future.
To date, Powerhouse Ventures has built a robust portfolio of over 50 companies across three distinct funds, demonstrating their consistent activity and belief in the sector's growth. Their portfolio companies have collectively raised more than $1.5 billion in follow-on capital, a testament to the quality and potential of the startups they back and the firm's ability to identify promising ventures. Their latest vehicle, Fund III, closed at $20 million in 2021, further solidifying their capacity to support the next generation of climate tech leaders. Powerhouse Ventures remains a pivotal player in the climate tech investment landscape, actively shaping the future of clean energy and sustainable transportation.
Investor Profile
Powerhouse Ventures has backed more than 48 startups, with 7 new investments in the last 12 months alone. The firm has led 8 rounds, about 17% of its total and boasts 2 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, The Netherlands.
- Strong thematic focus on Software, Energy, Solar.
- Led 1 rounds in the past year.
- Typical check size: $500K – $1.5M.
Stage Focus
- Seed (65%)
- Series A (21%)
- Pre Seed (8%)
- Convertible Note (4%)
- Series Unknown (2%)
Country Focus
- United States (81%)
- Canada (10%)
- The Netherlands (4%)
- Australia (2%)
- United Kingdom (2%)
Industry Focus
- Software
- Energy
- Solar
- Artificial Intelligence (Ai)
- Saas
- Machine Learning
- Renewable Energy
- Cleantech
- Electric Vehicle
- Clean Energy
Frequently Asked Questions
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