Applied Real Intelligence (A.R.I.)

Overview

Applied Real Intelligence (A.R.I.) is a venture debt investment firm focused on providing financing solutions to innovative, high-growth, venture capital-backed companies operating in recession-resistant sectors and underserved regions throughout North America. A.R.I. offers senior secured term loans ranging from $3 million to $30 million, combined with equity participation rights, to revenue-generating startups across a broad range of industries. The firm's mission is to democratize access to capital for all founders while providing investors with access to innovation as an asset class, superior risk-adjusted returns, security of capital, and strong portfolio diversification benefits. A.R.I. specializes in crafting customized debt solutions for North America's top revenue-generating startups, with a disciplined approach to structuring and risk management. The firm's flagship fund, the A.R.I. Senior Secured Growth Credit Fund, has delivered strong results, generating a 26% cash return on deployed capital in 2024, not including upside from equity warrants. This performance underscores A.R.I.'s commitment to supporting the growth of dynamic startups and providing value to its investors. A.R.I. is headquartered in St. Petersburg, Florida, and operates across the United States and Canada, focusing on sectors such as technology, healthcare, financial services, consumer goods, media, entertainment, clean energy, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, software, fintech, healthtech, agtech, supply chain, and logistics. The firm's investment strategy is designed to provide capital security, superior risk-adjusted returns, and strong portfolio diversification, while also promoting social good by increasing access to growth capital for North America's most dynamic startups. A.R.I. is committed to supporting diverse founders and has established a Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Investment Council to reduce the funding gap for startups led by underrepresented founders, including women and minorities. This initiative reflects A.R.I.'s dedication to fostering inclusivity and equity in the venture capital ecosystem. A.R.I.'s disciplined approach to structuring and risk management has resulted in a fully subscribed and closed flagship fund, reflecting strong demand and validation of the firm's strategy. The firm's commitment to providing minimally-dilutive capital to underrepresented regions, sectors, and founders aims to supercharge broader economic growth and support the next generation of industry leaders. A.R.I.'s focus on high-growth, recession-resistant industries and underserved regions positions it as a leading provider of venture debt financing in North America, dedicated to empowering visionary founders and unlocking the potential of their innovations through strategic debt financing.

Investment Focus

• Revenue greater than $5 million
• Predictable revenue
• Ample collateral
• Completed several rounds of equity financing

Portfolio Companies