Okapi Venture Capital

Background

Founded in 2005, Okapi Venture Capital is a venture capital firm based in Newport Beach, California. The firm specializes in seed and early-stage investments, focusing on technology startups in sectors such as enterprise software, consumer internet, deep information technology, SaaS, medical devices, financial services, media, life sciences, healthcare IT, and mobile technologies. Okapi is committed to partnering with talented entrepreneurs and operational executives to foster high-growth businesses, particularly emphasizing investments in Southern California's Tech Coast, including regions like Orange County and San Diego.

Key Strategic Focus

Okapi Venture Capital's strategic focus centers on providing capital and management support to emerging technology startups. The firm leverages its technical, operational, legal, and investing expertise to accelerate startups' progress, helping them achieve definitive milestones and preparing them for follow-on investments at later stages. Okapi typically invests between $500,000 and $3 million over the life of a company, with a preference for capital-efficient technology startups. The firm has a particular emphasis on investment opportunities in Southern California, believing that the region possesses all the necessary elements to be a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Financials and Funding

Since its inception, Okapi Venture Capital has managed to raise a total of $47.2 million across two funding rounds. The most recent funding round was held in March 2012, amassing $20 million. The firm prefers to invest in capital-efficient technology startups, typically investing between $750,000 and $3 million over the life of a company.

Pipeline Development

Okapi Venture Capital has made 90 investments, with 42 active portfolio companies and 18 exits. Notable portfolio companies include Chargezoom, Specright, Daasity, Slingshot Aerospace, and ChromaCode. The firm actively seeks new investments, focusing on seed and early-stage technology startups in various sectors.

Technological Platform and Innovation

Okapi Venture Capital differentiates itself through its active involvement in portfolio companies, often taking board seats to provide strategic guidance. The firm emphasizes partnerships with talented entrepreneurs and operational executives to foster high-growth businesses. Okapi's investment strategy includes a particular fondness for multidisciplinary opportunities that capitalize on the convergence of multiple technologies.

Leadership Team

Marc Averitt: Managing Director and Co-Founder. Marc brings extensive experience in venture capital and operational management, focusing on guiding portfolio companies through strategic growth phases.

Sharon Stevenson, Ph.D.: Co-Founder, Managing Director (OV1, OV2), and Venture Partner (OV3). Sharon's background in life sciences and venture capital provides valuable insights into the firm's healthcare and technology investments.

Jeff Bocan: Partner. Jeff contributes his expertise in technology investments and operational support, assisting portfolio companies in achieving their milestones.

John Waller: Partner. John's experience in venture capital and strategic planning aids in identifying and nurturing promising startups.

Leadership Changes

As of the latest available information, there have been no recent significant changes or appointments within Okapi Venture Capital's leadership team.

Competitor Profile

Market Insights and Dynamics

The venture capital industry, particularly in the technology sector, is highly competitive, with numerous firms vying to invest in promising startups. The market is characterized by rapid innovation, significant capital inflows, and a focus on sectors such as SaaS, AI, fintech, and healthcare technology.

Competitor Analysis

Key competitors in the venture capital space include firms like Mucker Capital, Stage Venture Partners, and Cove Fund. These firms focus on early-stage technology investments, similar to Okapi Venture Capital. They emphasize active involvement in portfolio companies, providing strategic guidance and leveraging their networks to support startup growth.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

Okapi Venture Capital has co-invested with various firms, including SaaS Ventures, Cove Fund, and Mucker Capital. These collaborations enable Okapi to leverage additional expertise and resources, enhancing the support provided to portfolio companies.

Operational Insights

Okapi Venture Capital's emphasis on Southern California's Tech Coast provides a strategic advantage, tapping into a region rich in entrepreneurial talent and innovation. The firm's active involvement in portfolio companies, including taking board seats, allows for hands-on guidance and support, differentiating it from competitors who may take a more passive investment approach.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

Looking ahead, Okapi Venture Capital aims to continue its focus on seed and early-stage technology startups, particularly in Southern California. The firm seeks to capitalize on emerging trends in sectors such as AI, fintech, and healthcare technology. By leveraging its expertise and network, Okapi is well-positioned to identify and support the next wave of innovative startups, fostering growth and achieving successful exits.