Desiree Gruber

Overview

Desiree Gruber is an American television producer, investor, and entrepreneur recognized for her significant contributions to the fashion and consumer sectors. She co-created and executive produced the television series 'Project Runway,' which has been instrumental in launching numerous brands and careers. Additionally, she is the founder and CEO of Full Picture, a creative agency that has worked with high-profile clients in the fashion industry. In 2016, Gruber co-founded DGNL Ventures, an early-stage venture capital fund that focuses exclusively on the consumer sector. The fund makes minority investments in high-growth consumer companies across areas such as consumer technology, consumer goods, and consumer media. DGNL Ventures seeks unique brands backed by distinctive founders, favoring those that disrupt traditional categories and leverage new business models. Gruber's investment strategy emphasizes active partnership with portfolio companies, aiming to accelerate their growth through a strong network of key influencers and industry leaders. The fund typically invests in post-revenue companies with a minimum of $1 million in sales, a solid product, retail distribution, and a strong founding team. In select cases, DGNL Ventures partners with founders from the outset to build companies from the ground up.

Investment Focus

• Post-revenue companies with minimum sales of $1 million
• Strong founding team
• Product and retail distribution in place
• Unique brands with potential to disrupt traditional categories

Portfolio Companies