Vela Partners

Vela Partners is a San Francisco-based venture capital firm that distinguishes itself through its unique focus on product-led and AI-powered companies. Founded by Brian Norgard, co-founder and former Chief Product Officer of Tinder, and Peter Norgard, the firm leverages its principals' deep operational expertise in building and scaling iconic product companies. Vela Partners aims to identify and support the next generation of disruptive technology companies that prioritize product innovation and leverage artificial intelligence as a core differentiator.

The firm's "product-led" philosophy is central to its investment strategy, emphasizing businesses that achieve growth primarily through the product itself, rather than relying heavily on sales or marketing. This approach is complemented by their strong belief in the transformative power of AI, seeking out companies that embed AI deeply into their core offerings to create superior user experiences and defensible moats. Vela Partners offers more than just capital; they provide hands-on guidance, drawing from their extensive experience in product development, user acquisition, and scaling global platforms.

Vela Partners primarily invests in early-stage companies, specifically targeting Seed and Series A rounds. Their typical initial check size ranges from $500,000 to $2,000,000, positioning them as a key partner for startups at critical junctures of their development. While the firm itself is relatively new, its founders have a track record of personal investments in highly successful product-led companies, including Notion, Rippling, and OpenPhone, which exemplifies the type of visionary companies they seek to back.

By combining a product-centric lens with a forward-looking view on AI, Vela Partners seeks to be a strategic ally for founders building the future of software. Their operational background allows them to provide invaluable insights into achieving product-market fit, optimizing user engagement, and navigating the complexities of rapid growth. This specialized focus ensures that their portfolio companies receive tailored support designed to accelerate their journey from innovative concept to market leadership.