First Rate Ventures

Overview

First Rate Ventures is the corporate venture capital arm of First Rate, Inc., a global leader in WealthTech for over 30 years. The firm focuses on early-stage venture investments, particularly in Seed and Series A rounds for startups with annual recurring revenue of $100,000 or more. Additionally, First Rate Ventures engages in acquisitions, taking majority interests in mature WealthTech platforms seeking liquidity and succession plans that preserve their legacy. The firm also offers an Entrepreneur in Residence program, providing coaching and resources to pre-product and pre-launch FinTech entrepreneurs. The firm's investment strategy emphasizes smart capital deployment to promote a healthy WealthTech ecosystem. By leveraging First Rate's extensive experience and resources, First Rate Ventures aims to deliver significant value to its portfolio companies and the broader industry. The firm is dedicated to being an active participant in the WealthTech sector, contributing to its growth and positive evolution. First Rate Ventures has a track record of strategic investments and partnerships, including its recent collaboration with Kapnative, a Berlin-based fintech platform specializing in AI-powered fund due diligence workflows. This partnership exemplifies First Rate Ventures' commitment to integrating innovative technologies and supporting the advancement of WealthTech solutions. First Rate Ventures is led by Managing Directors Marshall Smith and Nichole Rush, along with Principal Tina Gidwani and Venture Partners Prabhakar Reddy, Christian Jedlicka, and Basem Hassan. The team brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the firm's investment activities, ensuring a strategic approach to portfolio development and management.

Investment Focus

• Startups with annual recurring revenue of $100,000 or more
• Mature WealthTech platforms seeking liquidity and succession plans
• Pre-product and pre-launch FinTech entrepreneurs for Entrepreneur in Residence program

Portfolio Companies