Lakewest Venture Partners

Lakewest Venture Partners is a Chicago-based venture capital firm that focuses on seed and early-stage investments in technology companies across the United States. The firm was established in 2013 and has invested in over 50 companies to date. Its investment strategy emphasizes the quality of entrepreneurs, proof of concept, and disruptive ideas. Lakewest seeks businesses that have achieved early revenue and customer engagement, aiming to scale their efforts. The firm also partners with elite fund managers to diversify its investment strategies.

The firm's leadership includes David E. Mann, Jonathan W. McCulloch, and David W. 'Buzz' Ruttenberg. David E. Mann serves as the Chief Investment Officer, responsible for sourcing investment opportunities and managing portfolio company and fund investments. Jonathan W. McCulloch is the CEO of Belgravia Group, Ltd., a leading Chicago real estate development firm, and a Principal for Lakewest, Inc. David W. 'Buzz' Ruttenberg is the President of Lakewest, Inc., Founder of Belgravia Group, Ltd., and a Principal in the law firm of Ruttenberg Gilmartin Reis LLC.

Lakewest Venture Partners has a history of making significant investments, ranging from passive interests of $50,000-$100,000 to leading seed-stage investments exceeding $1,000,000 with board involvement. In 2015, the firm partnered with Dundee Venture Capital to create a $31 million seed and early-stage fund focused on investing in high-growth, early-stage technology companies across the Midwest. This partnership allows Lakewest to broaden its investment scope and support a diverse range of entrepreneurs in the region.

Lakewest's portfolio includes companies such as Accel Entertainment, which went public in 2019; Telnyx, a next-generation communications platform; Zipwhip, acquired by Twilio in 2021; SpotHero, which has facilitated over 75 million car parkings; Benchmark Analytics, acquired by private equity in 2024; and SmartMirror Dental, transforming the dental experience. The firm's investments span various sectors, including technology, healthcare, financial services, consumer goods, media, telecommunications, transportation, energy, education, retail, real estate, manufacturing, agriculture, food and beverage, and logistics.

Lakewest Venture Partners' approach combines strategic mentorship with financial investment, leveraging its founders' extensive networks and entrepreneurial experience to provide entrepreneurs with valuable insights and guidance. This comprehensive support aims to foster the growth and success of early-stage technology companies across the United States.