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Firebrand Ventures: seed-stage venture capital firm investing in early-stage technology startups, focused on the Greater Midwest and underserved markets.
Key people at Firebrand Ventures.
Firebrand Ventures is a seed-stage venture capital firm investing in early-stage technology startups, with headquarters and offices located in Boulder, Colorado, Kansas City, Missouri, and Austin, Texas. The firm primarily targets underserved markets across the Greater Midwest and non-coastal ecosystems, operating through a traditional fund structure backed by institutional limited partners. The firm's inaugural investment vehicle was an $18 million seed fund that ultimately backed 27 portfolio companies across a variety of regional technology sectors. Firebrand currently invests out of its second fund and maintains advisory relationships with notable industry figures, including Techstars co-founder David Cohen. The organization expanded its operational footprint and leadership team by merging with Chris Marks' Blue Note Ventures in late 2019 before opening its dedicated Texas branch. Firebrand Ventures was officially founded in 2016 by managing partner John Fein.
Firebrand Ventures is a venture capital firm focused on seed-stage investments primarily within underserved and emerging startup ecosystems, especially in the greater Midwest and select U.S. cities like Austin, Boulder, and Kansas City[1][2][4]. Their mission centers on building trusted, value-driven relationships with exceptional founders, emphasizing integrity, transparency, and active partnership throughout the startup journey[2]. Firebrand invests across sectors including e-commerce, fintech, food and beverage, software, and HR tech, supporting companies from pre-seed through Series A rounds[1][3]. The firm aims to be more than just a capital provider by offering operational expertise, a vast network, and hands-on support to accelerate startup growth and foster vibrant entrepreneurial communities[4][5].
Founded in 2016 by John (last name not specified) after his experience managing Techstars Kansas City, Firebrand Ventures emerged from recognizing the funding gap for exceptional startups outside the traditional coastal hubs[2]. Around the same time, Chris (last name not specified) launched Blue Note Ventures in Boulder with a similar ethos of backing authentic, transparent entrepreneurs. After co-investing in several startups, the two merged their funds in late 2019 to form the current Firebrand Ventures, combining their shared values and regional focus[2]. In 2021, Claire Hansen joined as a partner, expanding the firm's presence with a new office in Austin to better support founders[2].
Firebrand Ventures rides the growing trend of regional venture capital decentralization, addressing the funding and support gap for startups outside traditional tech hubs like Silicon Valley and New York[2][4]. The timing is critical as more entrepreneurs emerge in the Midwest and secondary cities, seeking investors who understand their unique challenges and opportunities. Market forces such as rising costs in coastal cities and increasing startup activity in emerging ecosystems favor Firebrand’s regional, founder-centric approach. By fostering authentic partnerships and providing operational resources, Firebrand helps build stronger, more sustainable startup communities, influencing the broader ecosystem toward inclusivity and geographic diversity[2][4][5].
Looking ahead, Firebrand Ventures is poised to deepen its impact by continuing to expand its geographic footprint and portfolio, particularly in the Midwest and emerging tech hubs like Austin[2]. Trends such as remote work, regional innovation clusters, and increased startup activity outside traditional centers will likely shape their investment strategy. Their emphasis on values-driven partnerships and operational support positions them to be a key player in nurturing the next generation of transformative companies. As they grow, Firebrand’s influence may extend beyond capital to shaping a more equitable and connected venture ecosystem that empowers founders wherever they are located.
This commitment to trusted relationships and regional empowerment ties back to Firebrand’s founding insight: exceptional startups deserve access to capital and support regardless of geography, and authentic partnerships are the foundation for lasting success.
Key people at Firebrand Ventures.
