Karen Levert

Venture Partner

Professional Overview

Karen Levert is an accomplished venture capitalist and technology executive with a proven track record of driving innovation and growth. As a Venture Partner at Pappas Capital and the Managing Partner at LeVert Ventures, she leverages her deep industry expertise and extensive network to identify and invest in promising early-stage companies across the technology and agriculture sectors.

Experience Summary

Current Roles

Venture Partner, Pappas Capital (2019-Present)

• Responsible for sourcing, evaluating, and managing investments in high-potential technology and agricultural startups

• Collaborates with portfolio companies to provide strategic guidance, operational support, and access to Pappas Capital's extensive network

• Contributes to the firm's investment thesis development and fund strategy

Managing Partner, LeVert Ventures (2023-Present)

• Leads the strategic direction and investment activities of LeVert Ventures, a boutique venture capital firm

• Focuses on early-stage investments in innovative technology solutions with a strong emphasis on agricultural technology and sustainability

• Actively engages with portfolio companies to drive growth, foster strategic partnerships, and enhance operational efficiencies

Career Progression

President and Board Member, Ag TechInventures, LLC (2014-Present)

• Oversees the strategic direction and operational management of this technology incubator and accelerator

• Helps nurture and scale promising agtech startups by providing hands-on mentorship, access to industry experts, and connections to potential investors

President and Board Member, Southeast TechInventures, Inc. (2003-Present)

• Leads this nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting the growth of the technology ecosystem in the Southeast United States

• Spearheads initiatives that foster entrepreneurship, facilitate knowledge sharing, and connect startups with resources and funding

President, LeVert Enterprises (2001-2003)

• Guided the strategic and operational aspects of this technology consulting firm

• Collaborated with clients to develop and implement tailored solutions that addressed their business challenges

Academic Background

Karen holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science from the University of North Carolina at Asheville, where she graduated with honors.

Areas of Expertise

• Venture capital and investment evaluation

• Agtech and sustainable technology solutions

• Startup incubation and acceleration

• Strategic partnership development

• Operational optimization and scaling

Professional Impact

• Instrumental in the growth and success of multiple early-stage technology and agricultural companies, including several portfolio investments that have achieved successful exits

• Recognized as a thought leader in the agtech and sustainability space, frequently invited to speak at industry events and conferences

• Actively involved in shaping the entrepreneurial ecosystem in the Southeast United States through her leadership roles with Ag TechInventures and Southeast TechInventures

Conclusion

With her extensive experience in venture capital, technology, and agricultural innovation, Karen Levert is a respected and influential figure in the startup community. Her deep industry expertise, strategic vision, and commitment to fostering sustainable growth make her a valuable asset to the organizations she serves and the entrepreneurs she supports.