Denver Ventures Launches, Announces New $20M Fund I to Invest in Early-Stage Leaders With Founder DNA

Denver Ventures, a cornerstone of Colorado’s startup ecosystem, today announced its launch with the successful close of its first dedicated seed fund, Denver Ventures Seed Fund I, oversubscribing the target raise with over $20 million in capital commitments. The new investment platform builds on the foundation established by Denver Angels, the original investment group, and currently manages over $60 million in assets across multiple investment vehicles.

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Denver Ventures Seed Fund Partners, from left: Elyse Kent, Amy Brandenburg, David Prichard, David Gold. Photo by Kalen Jesse.

Denver Ventures has participated in funding rounds for leading startup companies, such as Boom Supersonic, Urban Sky, RADICL and Pepper. Its successful track record investing in more than 45 companies has resulted in one of the nation’s largest networks of investors. Kenny Monfort, an original founder, will continue to serve as Chairman of Denver Ventures.

Denver Ventures represents a natural progression in the organization’s growth, reflecting its transformation from an angel investment group to a professionalized investment platform. The organization will continue to use its powerful network of CEOs, family offices, and operators of large enterprises, which have driven exceptional deal flow, momentum, and outcomes for both founders and investors.

“We’re building on a strong foundation to create something even more powerful,” said David Prichard, CEO of Denver Ventures. “Our investor network remains the backbone of our community, and now Denver Ventures offers a more synergistic platform that helps us move faster, support founders more effectively, and deliver exceptional returns for our investors.”

Distinctive "Founder DNA" Drives Investment Strategy

Central to Denver Ventures’ investment approach is its focus on entrepreneurs with distinctive “Founder DNA”—a rare combination of traits that sets extraordinary entrepreneurs apart. The firm targets founders who embody seemingly contradictory qualities: simultaneously bold yet pragmatic, audacious yet humble, and laser-focused on execution yet highly adaptable.

“We champion relentless visionaries who turn obstacles into momentum,” said Elyse Kent, Partner at Denver Ventures. “When we identify leaders with this distinctive ‘Founder DNA,’ we go all in—bringing capital, connections, community, and an unmatched network that amplifies their potential.”

Reinforcing their commitment to identifying and supporting Founder DNA, Denver Ventures has welcomed Martin Dubin as Human Capital Advisor. Marty, a clinical psychologist and three-time founder, brings deep expertise from his decade-long tenure consulting with Andreessen Horowitz and many of their portfolio companies.

"Identifying the key traits and motives that lead to entrepreneurial success is a mix of art and science. Denver Ventures is going beyond gut instinct and tribal knowledge by integrating pattern recognition with rigorous, science-backed methodology. I'm proud to partner with them in supporting founders on their path to greatness," said Marty Dubin.

With the launch of Denver Ventures Seed Fund, the organization will invest $250,000 to $800,000 in pre-seed and seed-stage companies with breakthrough innovations and high-impact potential. Denver Ventures' growth vehicles will continue to invest $1M-$3M in later-stage companies.

Network-Driven Investment Approach Offers Powerful Connections for Founders

“What truly sets Denver Ventures apart is their ability to make strategic introductions at exactly the right time,” said Chris Petersen, CEO of RADICL, a Boulder-based cybersecurity firm backed by the fund. “Their network opened doors to customers and partners we couldn't have accessed otherwise, which supercharged our growth trajectory. They recognized our vision when we were still early and understood the unique blend of technical expertise and market understanding needed to disrupt the cybersecurity landscape.”

“A small band of talented and dedicated engineers has accomplished what once required governments and billions of dollars—right here in Colorado,” said Blake Scholl, CEO of Boom Supersonic. “Having a local investor who believes in our mission and understands what it takes to achieve great outcomes means a great deal as we bring the benefits of supersonic flight to the world.”

About Denver Ventures

Denver Ventures backs bold, visionary founders with the rare traits needed to build category-defining companies. We combine capital, insight, and an unrivaled network to turn ambition into momentum—delivering exceptional value for founders and investors alike. For more information, visit www.denverventures.co.

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