Illuminate Ventures

Illuminate Ventures is an early-stage venture capital firm specializing in B2B/Enterprise cloud and mobile computing companies. Founded in 2010 and based in Oakland, California, the firm focuses on leading Series Seed investments, typically ranging from $1 to $4 million. Illuminate Ventures seeks innovative companies led by talented teams that leverage data and AI to drive meaningful ROI. Their portfolio includes deep technology platforms like BrightEdge Technologies, SaaS applications such as Xactly Corporation, and early market innovators like Contentstack and Coupang. Illuminate Ventures' investment approach is thesis-based, grounded in relevant experience and research, and they pride themselves on being 'doers' who actively support founders in building great companies. The firm has achieved multiple successful exits, including IPOs and acquisitions, and has been recognized for its unique approach to venture capital. Illuminate Ventures is typically a startup's first institutional investor but can also be a fit for an established company seeking its first equity financing. Their sweet spot is Series Seed rounds, filling the gap between angel capital and larger funding rounds of traditional VCs. When the timing is right, they collaborate with the best large-scale firms for the next round of financing, but they love lean start-ups that preserve flexibility in their early years. With three funds under management, Illuminate Ventures has been an early investor and board member in deep technology platforms like BrightEdge Technologies (SEO market leader), SaaS applications like Xactly Corporation (NYSE: XTLY), and early market innovators like Contentstack (headless CMS platform) and Korean e-commerce market leader Coupang (NYSE: CPNG).