Lightbank

Lightbank is a Chicago-based venture capital firm founded in 2010 by Eric Lefkofsky and Brad Keywell. The firm focuses on early-stage investments in technology companies, emphasizing disruptive innovation across various sectors, including technology, healthcare, fintech, and consumer goods. Lightbank has raised over $700 million in assets under management and has invested in more than 150 companies, such as Tempus, Udemy, and Fiverr. The firm typically invests at the pre-seed, seed, and Series A stages, with initial checks ranging from $250,000 to $5 million. Lightbank's investment strategy centers on partnering with founders at the earliest stages of their journey, almost always investing in companies before a Series A fundraise. The firm has a track record of successful investments, with eight of its portfolio companies achieving unicorn status and over 35 exits. Lightbank's approach is to invest early in disruptive technology companies led by great founders in dynamic markets with world-class products. The firm believes that great businesses can be started anywhere and partners with the best founders regardless of location and current investment hype. This philosophy has led to investments in companies like Sprout Social, TastyTrade, Snapsheet, Benzinga, Tempus, Attain, Paytient, and Blueprint, demonstrating the firm's commitment to supporting innovative entrepreneurs across the United States.

Lightbank's investment philosophy is rooted in empowering the underdog and being contrarian when necessary. The firm aims to make venture capital a better industry for entrepreneurs by filling a void in the market for emerging entrepreneurs. Lightbank invests with conviction and makes a difference for its entrepreneurs by actively engaging with them and leveraging its deep networks. The firm values qualities such as hustle, speed, integrity, teamwork, passion, and preparation in its approach to business. This focus on active engagement and support for founders has contributed to the firm's success in identifying and nurturing high-potential startups.

In addition to its financial support, Lightbank provides strategic guidance and resources to its portfolio companies, helping them scale and achieve long-term success. The firm's team comprises experienced professionals with backgrounds in technology, finance, and entrepreneurship, enabling them to offer valuable insights and mentorship to founders. Lightbank's commitment to fostering innovation and supporting entrepreneurs has solidified its reputation as a leading venture capital firm in the Midwest and beyond. The firm's ongoing success is a testament to its dedication to identifying and nurturing disruptive technologies and visionary founders across various industries.