First Cut Ventures
Overview
First Cut Ventures is a New Zealand-based venture capital firm investing in early-stage technology companies led by young founders. The firm focuses on providing capital, resources, and a supportive community to entrepreneurs under 30, aiming to fuel the next generation of Kiwi founders building global companies. Their investment strategy includes backing companies from pre-seed to pre-IPO stages, with a target fund size of over $5 million and a portfolio of approximately 30 companies. The firm has a proven investment approach, with top-decile results across previous funds, and operates alongside the First Cut community, New Zealand's largest network of ambitious entrepreneurs under 30. This community offers access to events, resources, and initiatives specifically designed to help young founders navigate the startup ecosystem in Aotearoa. First Cut Ventures has invested in companies such as Halter, Tracksuit, Partly, Crimson Education, Mint Innovation, and Dawn Aerospace, demonstrating a commitment to supporting innovative startups with global ambitions. Their investment philosophy emphasizes the importance of backing young founders early, providing them with the capital, network, and conviction to turn talent into global outcomes. The firm is led by a partnership with over two decades of experience backing New Zealand's most exceptional entrepreneurs, bringing a rare combination of commercial rigor, operational depth, and genuine founder empathy to their investments.
Investment Focus
- Young founders under 30
- Early-stage technology companies
- Connection to New Zealand
Portfolio Companies
Reach First Cut Ventures directly
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Unlock full contacts →Frequently asked questions about First Cut Ventures
What sectors does First Cut Ventures invest in?
First Cut Ventures invests in Technology, Gaming, Digital Media, Entertainment, Social Media and Sports, and is based in Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand. First Cut Ventures is listed as a venture capital in the ConnectSafely investor database.
What stage does First Cut Ventures invest at?
First Cut Ventures backs companies at Pre-Seed, Seed, Early Stage, Series A, Series B and Growth, writing cheques of 50K - 5M.
Which regions does First Cut Ventures invest in?
First Cut Ventures invests across New Zealand.
Who are the partners at First Cut Ventures?
Team members listed for First Cut Ventures include Jack McQuire (Partner).
What companies has First Cut Ventures invested in?
First Cut Ventures's portfolio includes Halter, Mint Innovation, Partly, Tracksuit, Dawn Aerospace and Crimson Education.
How do I contact First Cut Ventures?
First Cut Ventures's contact details — including LinkedIn — are listed in the ConnectSafely investor database, along with its website and the LinkedIn profiles of its partners.
Last updated · Source: ConnectSafely investor database
