Top 12 Venture Capital Firms in Austin
Key takeaways
Seeking venture capital funding means exchanging equity in your company for the capital needed to accelerate growth.
Austin has a strong venture capital community, with top players including Scout Ventures, Sapphire Ventures, Silverton Partners, and Elsewhere Partners.
If you're a startup leader who is raising or has just closed a round, Rho helps you manage your capital with our integrated platform for fast business banking, corporate cards, and bill pay.
For founders preparing to raise capital, having a clear picture of the venture capital community in Austin is essential. The "Silicon Hills" has a distinct set of investors, and connecting with the right ones can make all the difference for your startup.To help you find a strong match, our team at Rho has curated this guide to the top VC firms in the area. It’s a straightforward overview designed to help you quickly understand the most relevant investors for your fundraising efforts.
Just raised? Set up your financial stack with Rho in minutes. We provide business banking, corporate cards, and bill pay—all built for startup teams moving fast.
Which Austin VC Firms Are Right for Your Stage?
Whether you're just starting out or preparing for an exit, it helps to know who to talk to. This is a quick overview of which Austin VC firms invest at each stage, so you can focus your outreach.
Pre-seed and Seed VC Firms
Pre-seed and seed funding is the earliest capital you'll raise, typically used to validate your idea and build your initial product. In Austin, firms like Capital Factory and GTM Fund are active seed VC firms, while others such as KdT Ventures provide seed funding for startups in specialized sectors like data and biology.
Early Stage VC Firms
Early-stage venture capital, often for Series A or B rounds, helps you scale your team and achieve significant market traction. Some of the most active early-stage VC firms in the area include Silverton Partners, S3 Ventures, and ATX Venture Partners, which often back B2B software and tech-enabled service companies.
Late Stage VC Firms
Late-stage funding is for established companies looking to expand aggressively, enter new markets, or prepare for an exit through an acquisition or IPO. For founders seeking this type of venture capital financing for startups, firms like Sapphire, Elsewhere Partners, and Bedrock Capital have deep experience in growth rounds and private equity.
Keep in mind that many firms invest across multiple stages, so it's always worth checking their latest activity.
To help you find the right fit, we’ve compiled a detailed overview of Austin's top VC firms. Below, you'll find information on their investment stages, sector focus, portfolio highlights, and what makes each one a compelling partner for founders.
1. Scout Ventures
Scout Ventures is an early-stage firm that invests in technologies designed to make the world a better and safer place. They concentrate on what they term "frontier" and "dual-use" technologies, backing innovations with both commercial and public-sector applications.
The firm’s clear commitment to deep tech is a defining feature, with a portfolio centered on sectors like robotics, quantum computing, and cybersecurity. Their "dual-use" thesis signals a focus on companies whose products can serve both private and government needs, a distinct approach in the venture space.
Scout Ventures is a strong potential partner if you're building tangible, hard-tech solutions. They are particularly well-suited for founders operating at the intersection of commercial and government use cases.
Investment stages: Seed, Early Stage Venture, Late Stage Venture
Industries of focus: Autonomous Vehicles, Cyber Security, Drones, Internet of Things, Quantum Computing, Robotics, Virtual Reality
Founded: 2010
Portfolio size: 125 investments
Number of exits: 28
You can refer to their website here.
2. Sapphire Ventures
Sapphire is a software venture capital firm dedicated to backing what it calls "companies of consequence." With deep roots in the industry since 1996, they offer extensive experience in building enduring technology businesses.
The firm invests from early to late stages, showing a commitment to supporting companies throughout their entire growth cycle. Their clear focus is on enterprise software, looking for businesses that can define and lead their markets.
This firm is a strong match for founders of high-growth software companies who are prepared to scale aggressively. Their long history and focus on significant outcomes make them a valuable partner for teams with large ambitions.
Investment stages: Early Stage Venture, Late Stage Venture
Industries of focus: Software, Finance, Financial Services
Founded: 1996
Portfolio size: 355 investments
Number of exits: 99
You can refer to their website here.
3. Silverton Partners
Silverton Partners is an early-stage venture capital firm based in Austin. They focus on backing companies in software, tech-enabled services, and consumer packaged goods (CPG).
The firm's investment thesis spans from seed to later stages, signaling a capacity to support founders throughout their growth journey. Their focus is broad yet specific, covering both B2B software and consumer brands, which is a relatively uncommon combination.
This firm is a compelling choice for founders building companies in their core sectors who value a long-term financial partner. If you're looking for an investor who can potentially follow on from your seed round to Series A and beyond, Silverton is worth a look.
Investment stages: Seed, Early Stage Venture, Late Stage Venture
Industries of focus: Software, Tech-enabled Services, CPG
Founded: 2006
Portfolio size: 209 investments
Number of exits: 38
You can refer to their website here.
4. Elsewhere Partners
Elsewhere Partners is a growth capital firm that invests in B2B software companies located outside of traditional venture hubs. They focus on businesses that have already established a strong product and are ready to scale.
A defining characteristic of the firm is its focus on capital-efficient companies in emerging tech ecosystems. They provide hands-on operational support, signaling a commitment that goes beyond just providing capital to help their portfolio companies grow.
This firm is a strong match for founders of B2B software companies who are building their business outside of major coastal tech centers. They are particularly well-suited for teams looking for a partner to help them accelerate growth and professionalize their operations.
Investment stages: Seed, Early Stage Venture, Late Stage Venture, Private Equity
Industries of focus: Information Technology, Internet, Software
Geographical focus: Companies outside of traditional venture hubs
Founded: 2017
Portfolio size: 22 investments
Number of exits: 3
You can refer to their website here.
5. S3 Ventures
S3 Ventures is a venture capital firm that partners with entrepreneurs to build high-impact companies. They provide the capital and support needed to help businesses scale from early stages to significant market players.
The firm's ability to invest across multiple stages—from seed to late-stage venture—is a key characteristic. This signals their readiness to be a long-term partner for the companies they back, supporting them throughout their growth.
S3 Ventures is a great fit for founders seeking a financial partner for the entire journey, particularly in business or financial services. If you want an investor who can support you through multiple funding rounds, they are a strong contender.
Investment stages: Seed, Early Stage Venture, Late Stage Venture
Industries of focus: Business Development, Finance, Financial Services
Founded: 2005
Portfolio size: 113 investments
Number of exits: 22
You can refer to their website here.
6. GTMfund
GTMfund is an early-stage venture capital firm that provides capital and asset management for companies in the finance and technology sectors. They focus on helping startups navigate their initial growth phases.
The firm’s name strongly signals a focus on go-to-market strategy, suggesting they provide hands-on support for building sales and marketing functions. Their concentration on seed and early-stage rounds shows they are committed to partnering with companies from the ground up.
GTMfund is a great match for founders who need a partner to help build a robust customer acquisition engine. If you have a strong product but need strategic guidance to scale revenue, they are worth connecting with.
Investment stages: Early Stage Venture, Seed
Industries of focus: Finance, Financial Services, Venture Capital
Founded: 2020
Portfolio size: 123 investments
Number of exits: 8
You can refer to their website here.
7. Capital Factory
Capital Factory is a central figure in Austin's tech scene, operating as both a venture capital firm and an accelerator for startups at all stages. They are known as a major hub for entrepreneurs in Texas.
The firm’s hybrid model, which combines a co-working space with an accelerator program and venture funding, is a key differentiator. This structure signals a deep commitment to building a community and providing hands-on support beyond just capital.
Capital Factory is an excellent match for early-stage founders who can benefit from a built-in network and structured guidance. If you're looking for an investor that provides a physical hub and a community to grow with, they are a primary contender.
Investment stages: Seed, Early Stage Venture, Late Stage Venture, Convertible Note
Industries of focus: Angel Investment, Finance, Financial Services, Incubators, Venture Capital
Investor type: Accelerator, Co-Working Space, Venture Capital
Founded: 2009
Portfolio size: 218 investments
Number of exits: 32
You can refer to their website here.
8. KdT Ventures
KdT Ventures is an early-stage firm providing capital to startups at the intersection of data, engineering, and biology. They concentrate on companies built on foundational scientific and technical insights.
The firm’s defining characteristic is its sharp focus on science-driven businesses, signaling deep technical expertise. Their commitment to seed and early-stage rounds shows they partner with founders to commercialize complex research from the start.
KdT Ventures is an ideal match for founders with strong scientific backgrounds who are building research-intensive companies. If you need investors who can grasp the technical complexities of your work, this firm is a strong choice.
Investment stages: Seed, Early Stage Venture
Industries of focus: Data, Engineering, Biology
Founded: 2017
Portfolio size: 79 investments
Number of exits: 5
You can refer to their website here.
9. Trust Ventures
Trust Ventures is a venture capital firm that backs startups challenging established, incumbent-heavy industries. They provide both capital and deep expertise to help new companies break into traditionally closed-off markets.
The firm's defining feature is its focus on overcoming regulatory and policy hurdles that protect large incumbents. This signals a hands-on approach that goes beyond funding, offering strategic guidance on navigating complex legal and market structures.
Trust Ventures is a strong partner for founders building companies in highly regulated sectors where innovation has been slow. If your business model requires disrupting an entrenched industry, their specialized expertise could be a significant advantage.
Investment stages: Seed, Early Stage Venture, Private Equity
Industries of focus: Financial Services, Venture Capital, and other incumbent-heavy sectors
Founded: 2018
Portfolio size: 51 investments
Number of exits: 3
You can refer to their website here.
10. Bedrock
Bedrock is a venture capital firm that finances what it calls "one-of-a-kind companies," with a clear focus on the fintech and financial services sectors. They partner with founders who are building businesses with a distinct point of view.
A key aspect of their approach is investing across all stages, from seed to late-stage rounds, signaling their ability to be a long-term financial partner. Their emphasis on unique companies suggests they value a strong narrative and a contrarian approach to the market.
Bedrock is a compelling choice for founders in the financial technology space who have a bold vision and are looking for an investor for the long haul. They are a good fit if you need a partner who can support your company through its entire growth cycle.
Investment stages: Seed, Early Stage Venture, Late Stage Venture
Industries of focus: Finance, Financial Services, FinTech, Venture Capital
Founded: 2017
Portfolio size: 65 investments
Number of exits: 3
You can refer to their website here.
11. Ironspring Ventures
Ironspring Ventures is an early-stage venture capital firm that invests in companies digitizing the industrial sector. They back founders building technology for core industries like construction, manufacturing, and logistics.
The firm's defining trait is its exclusive focus on industrial technology, signaling deep domain expertise in these complex markets. They lead and co-lead seed and early-stage rounds, showing a commitment to being a foundational partner for their companies.
Ironspring is an excellent choice for founders building for legacy industries who need a lead investor with genuine sector knowledge. If your startup is focused on construction, logistics, or manufacturing, their specialized approach makes them a valuable ally.
Investment stages: Seed, Early Stage Venture
Industries of focus: Construction, Manufacturing, Transport & Logistics, Alternative Energy, Supply Chain Management
Founded: 2019
Portfolio size: 32 investments
Number of exits: 1
You can refer to their website here.
12. ATX Venture Partners
ATX Venture Partners is an early-stage venture capital firm that invests in technology companies, with a strong emphasis on B2B software. They back founders building solutions in high-growth areas like APIs, marketplaces, and frontier tech.
A key characteristic of the firm is its clear focus on specific technology verticals, suggesting deep expertise in these markets. Their investment mandate spans from seed to later stages, indicating they are equipped to be a long-term financial partner.
This firm is a strong match for founders of B2B software or API-first companies who are seeking a knowledgeable investor. If you want a partner who can support you from the early days through significant growth, ATX Venture Partners is worth a look.
Investment stages: Seed, Early Stage Venture, Late Stage Venture
Industries of focus: B2B Software, APIs, Marketplaces, Frontier Tech
Founded: 2014
Portfolio size: 109 investments
Number of exits: 10
You can refer to their website here.
What This Tells Us About Austin, Texas, United States's VC Scene
This overview of Austin's venture capital firms shows a market with considerable depth and balance. You'll find strong support across all funding stages, from pre-seed specialists like GTMfund to growth-focused firms like Sapphire. Many investors, including Silverton Partners and S3 Ventures, are prepared to back companies from their earliest days through later rounds, offering you the chance to build a long-term partnership.
The city also has a diverse set of investors focused on specific sectors. While B2B software and fintech are clearly prominent, you can also connect with firms specializing in deep tech, industrial innovation, and consumer goods. This variety means that no matter your industry, you have a good chance of finding an investor in Austin who understands your specific market and business model.
Raise Confidently with Rho
Fundraising requires your full attention, and a focused list of relevant investors saves valuable time and energy. We hope this guide helps you connect directly with the right partners for your specific needs.
When you've successfully raised, the next step is putting that capital to work efficiently. Rho can help you set up your financial stack in minutes so you can focus on growth.
We provide the essential tools for managing your new funds, including business banking, corporate cards, and bill pay. Our goal is to give you a clear financial picture so you can scale with confidence.
FAQs about Venture Capital Firms in Austin
Which are the top SaaS venture capital firms in Austin?
Austin has a strong B2B software focus. Firms like Silverton Partners, S3 Ventures, and ATX Venture Partners are very active in this space, often investing from early to growth stages. Check their portfolios for alignment with your product.
Are there pre-seed VC firms in Austin for new startups?
Yes, Austin has a supportive environment for new companies. Firms like Capital Factory and GTMfund specialize in pre-seed and seed rounds, providing the initial capital and guidance needed to help you get your startup off the ground.
What are some Austin-based fintech venture capital firms?
The fintech scene is growing in Austin. Firms like S3 Ventures and Bedrock have a strong focus on financial services and fintech. They look for innovative companies and can support you through multiple funding rounds as you scale.
How can I connect with Austin venture capital firms?
Beyond cold outreach, consider attending local tech events and meetups. Organizations like Capital Factory are central hubs for networking. A warm introduction from a founder or advisor in their network can also improve your chances of getting a meeting.
What do Austin VCs look for in a startup?
Austin investors typically look for a strong founding team, a large addressable market, and early signs of traction. A clear vision for how your company will grow and capture its market is essential for securing venture capital financing.
How can Rho help after I raise from venture capital firms?
Once you secure funding, our platform helps you manage it effectively. We provide integrated corporate cards, business banking, and automated bill pay, giving you the financial tools to scale your business with confidence. Get started with Rho today.