New Media Ventures (NMV) Company Profile

Background

New Media Ventures (NMV) is a pioneering angel investment group established in 2010, dedicated to supporting startups that drive progressive political change. By investing in early-stage companies at the intersection of media, technology, and politics, NMV aims to redirect capital towards initiatives that spark civic engagement, change cultural narratives, and build movements, ultimately shifting power and creating long-term political impact.

Key Strategic Focus

NMV's strategic focus encompasses:

Media & Narrative: Investing in platforms that challenge existing narratives and promote diverse voices.

Organizing & Advocacy: Supporting tools and organizations that enhance grassroots mobilization and advocacy efforts.

Elections & Civic Engagement: Backing technologies and initiatives that increase voter participation and strengthen democratic processes.

By concentrating on these areas, NMV seeks to empower communities, foster inclusive dialogue, and drive systemic change.

Financials and Funding

NMV operates a flexible fund structure that allows investments across both for-profit and nonprofit startups. The Innovation Fund, managed by ImpactAssets, enables NMV to make grants to 501(c)(3) nonprofits and early-stage investments in mission-driven, for-profit companies. Returns from these investments help sustain NMV's operations over time. Additionally, NMV has a fund supporting political action startups, reflecting its commitment to fostering progressive change.

As of 2023, NMV typically provides funding ranging from $50,000 to $100,000 per organization. For for-profit entities, investments are often made via convertible notes or Simple Agreements for Future Equity (SAFEs), while nonprofits receive unrestricted grants. This approach ensures that NMV can support a diverse array of organizations effectively.

Pipeline Development

NMV's portfolio includes a variety of innovative startups:

Nuestro Stories: A content, influencer, and adtech company dedicated to celebrating Latino heritage daily. By reversing stereotypical narratives, Nuestro Stories showcases Latino histories, traditions, icons, and contributions to the U.S.

Good Call Technologies: A Black-led hybrid tech company providing immediate access to legal support for marginalized communities. Their technology aims to combat mass incarceration by ensuring effective legal assistance.

Avalanche: Utilizing AI-enabled psychographic listening, Avalanche offers deep insights into community values and priorities, empowering progressives to resonate, mobilize, and win.

Luz Collective: Disrupting false media narratives about Latinas through high-quality digital content, Luz Collective builds community via programs and experiences that celebrate Latina strength and success.

These investments reflect NMV's commitment to supporting ventures that address critical societal issues and promote progressive change.

Technological Platform and Innovation

NMV distinguishes itself through:

Proprietary Technologies: Investing in startups that develop unique technological solutions to societal challenges.

Scientific Methodologies: Supporting companies employing advanced methodologies, such as AI and machine learning, to analyze and address complex issues.

AI-Driven Capabilities: Backing ventures like Avalanche, which leverages AI for psychographic analysis to enhance community engagement strategies.

By focusing on these areas, NMV ensures its portfolio companies are equipped to drive meaningful and scalable impact.

Leadership Team

NMV's leadership comprises experienced professionals dedicated to advancing progressive change:

Carlissia Graham: As President, Carlissia oversees NMV's strategic direction and operations, bringing extensive experience in philanthropy and social impact initiatives.

Jessica Salinas: Serving as Chief Investment Officer, Jessica leads NMV's investment strategy, focusing on identifying and supporting high-impact startups.

Phillip Sanders: As Director of Investments, Phillip manages NMV's investment portfolio, ensuring alignment with the organization's mission and goals.

This team collaborates closely to identify and support ventures that align with NMV's mission.

Leadership Changes

As of June 2025, there have been no recent significant changes or appointments within NMV's leadership team.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The intersection of media, technology, and progressive politics is a dynamic and evolving sector. With increasing demand for platforms that promote diverse narratives and civic engagement, the market presents substantial growth opportunities. Trends indicate a rising interest in impact investing, particularly in ventures that address social justice and democratic participation.

Competitor Analysis

Key competitors in this space include:

Propel Capital: Focuses on funding social enterprises and hybrid business models, aiming to accelerate social impact innovation.

Luminate: Invests in organizations that empower people and institutions to work together to build just and fair societies.

Rockefeller Brothers Fund: Supports initiatives that advance social change, including investments in justice tech and civic engagement platforms.

These organizations share NMV's commitment to fostering progressive change through strategic investments.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

NMV collaborates with a diverse network of over 250 angel investors and aligned donors. This community brings together perspectives from media, technology, activism, venture capital, and philanthropy, enhancing NMV's capacity to support innovative startups. Through programs like the annual NMV Summit, the organization fosters collaboration and learning among stakeholders.

Operational Insights

NMV's strategic considerations include:

Market Position: As a pioneer in progressive impact investing, NMV holds a unique position in the market, attracting startups aligned with its mission.

Competitive Advantages: NMV's flexible funding structure, extensive network, and focus on early-stage investments provide a competitive edge in identifying and supporting high-potential ventures.

Distinct Differentiators: The organization's commitment to both for-profit and nonprofit entities, along with its emphasis on media and technology, sets it apart from traditional investment firms.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

Looking ahead, NMV aims to:

Expand Investment Portfolio: Continue identifying and supporting startups that address emerging societal challenges.

Enhance Support Programs: Refine and expand support offerings for portfolio companies, including coaching, networking opportunities, and access to additional funding.

Strengthen Community Engagement: Foster deeper connections within its investor network and among portfolio companies to amplify collective impact.

By leveraging its current strengths and strategic focus, NMV is well-positioned to drive progressive change and support innovative solutions to complex societal issues.