500 Startups is a global venture capital firm headquartered in San Francisco, California, with a mission to discover and back the world’s most talented entrepreneurs. The firm focuses on early-stage investments, typically participating in pre-seed, seed, and Series A rounds. Their investment strategy spans across various sectors and geographies, aiming to support fast-growing technology companies that can drive economic growth and create long-term value.
Notable portfolio companies include Credit Karma, Udemy, and GitLab. Key partners and decision-makers at 500 Startups bring extensive experience from leading firms and successful startups. The firm’s investment philosophy emphasizes not only financial backing but also providing comprehensive support through mentorship, educational programs, and a robust network of industry connections. This holistic approach helps portfolio companies scale efficiently and effectively in competitive markets.
500 Startups - Portfolio Snapshot
Portfolio activity breakdown across disclosed investments and stages
Total Investments989
Current Portfolio Count652
Total Portfolio Exits39
Top Investment Stages
Seed597 (64.7%)
Pre-Seed138 (15.0%)
Series A95 (10.3%)
Series Unknown59 (6.4%)
Series B34 (3.7%)
Stage Mix
Seed 65%Pre-Seed 15%Series A 10%Series Unknown 6%Series B 4%
Concentration shown as share of disclosed investments by stage.
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500 Startups - Classification
- Also Known As
- 500 Startups, L.P.
- NAICS
- 520000Finance and Insurance
- 523000Securities, Commodity Contracts, and Other Financial Investments and Related Activities
- 523900Other Financial Investment Activities
- 523990All Other Financial Investment Activities
- 523999Miscellaneous Financial Investment Activities
- SIC
- 6700Holding And Other Investment Offices
- 6790Miscellaneous Investing
- 6799Investors, Not Elsewhere Classified
Show 9 more industry codes
- NAICS
- 540000Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services
- 525000Funds, Trusts, and Other Financial Vehicles
- 541000Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services
- 523910Miscellaneous Intermediation
- 523940Portfolio Management and Investment Advice
- SIC
- 6000Depository Institutions
- 7300Business Services
- 6720Investment Offices
- 6722Management Investment Offices, Open-end