Catamount Ventures

About The Fund

Catamount Ventures is a seasoned venture capital firm based in San Francisco, California, with an investment focus on building a healthier planet and promoting education for all. Founded in the year 2000 by Jed Smith, the firm has dedicated its efforts towards supporting passionate entrepreneurs seeking to make significant contributions to society through their innovative business ideas. Catamount Ventures has been particularly interested in backing early-stage, mission-oriented companies that harbor the potential to lead their respective categories. The venture firm maintained a hands-on partnership approach, committing more than $200 million in committed capital and investing in over 45 companies to drive growth and change. Their engagement went beyond financial investment as they offered strategic guidance, essential connections, and extensive support through each phase of the company's development. Catamount Ventures' investment philosophy was anchored in the belief that mission-driven businesses are more likely to resonate with consumers, leading to sustained engagement and recurring sales, ultimately fostering a successful and profitable enterprise. Despite no longer making new venture capital investments, the firm's legacy continues with its profound impact on markets it knew and cherished: education, healthy living, and sustainability. Core to their strategy was fostering positive social change and being at the forefront of the sustainable revolution. Catamount's successful management of four funds has delivered outstanding historical returns. Jed Smith further leveraged his experience by co-founding Owl Ventures, focusing on the world’s education technology market and managing the initial two funds which significantly advanced educational access globally. At Catamount Ventures, problem-solving and fair dealing were paramount, alongside establishing deeply rooted relationships with entrepreneurs. The team's wisdom and guidance aimed to ensure that they were the first port of call for entrepreneur advice.