Karlin Ventures

What is Karlin Ventures?

Karlin Ventures is an early-stage venture capital fund affiliated with Karlin Asset Management, a private investment firm managing over $1.4 billion of unleveraged equity capital. Based in Los Angeles, California, they focus on investing in companies that operate in the enterprise software, commerce platforms, and marketplaces sectors, although they are open to exciting ideas in other verticals as well.

With a preference for co-investor roles, Karlin Ventures typically invests from $250,000 to $2,000,000 and participates in follow-on rounds. They seek U.S.-based companies, preferably on the West Coast, that have a proof-of-concept in place, either post-revenue or with secured contracts.

The firm targets businesses requiring less than $5,000,000 and three years to reach a break-even point.

As a value-add partner, Karlin Ventures leverages their nimbleness and responsiveness to make quick investment decisions—often getting back to entrepreneurs within 1-2 weeks—and supports their portfolio companies throughout subsequent funding rounds. They assist by providing deep connections through their larger investment fund and affiliates as well as maintaining relationships with leading venture funds in Southern California and Silicon Valley, ready to syndicate investment opportunities.

Their portfolio includes varied companies such as those in wireless network analytics, online safety for children, medical apparel, and digital advertising transparency. Karlin Ventures also touts successful exits, including acquisitions by major corporations like Palo Alto Networks and First Data Corporation.

Moreover, they offer the Karlin Fellows program, an elite fellowship for industry leaders in LA's tech community, fostering connections and growth within the ecosystem. Testimonials from portfolio company CEOs underscore Karlin Ventures' supportive and resourceful role, emphasizing their commitment beyond just financial investment.