Interlace Ventures

High-Level Overview

Interlace Ventures is an early-stage venture capital fund founded in 2019, based in New York, that invests in founders who are reimagining commerce. Their mission centers on supporting startups innovating across the commerce value chain, particularly in sectors like e-commerce, fintech, consumer packaged goods (CPG), retail technology, and marketplaces. The fund typically invests in seed and early-stage rounds, with check sizes ranging from $100K to $10M, focusing on companies primarily in the United States. Interlace Ventures leverages a strong network connecting portfolio companies to enterprise brands and retailers, enhancing their growth potential and impact on the startup ecosystem by accelerating commerce innovation[1][2][3][5].

Origin Story

Interlace Ventures was established in 2019 by Joseph Sartre and Vincent Diallo in New York. Since its inception, the fund has concentrated on commerce infrastructure and technology startups, evolving to become a key player in early-stage investments within this niche. The fund has consistently participated in multiple investment rounds annually, often alongside other notable investors like TriplePoint Capital and Khosla Ventures. Their focus on commerce-related startups reflects a strategic response to the growing digital transformation in retail and consumer services[1][6].

Core Differentiators

• Unique Investment Model: Focused exclusively on early-stage commerce startups, with investments spanning pre-seed to Series A rounds but typically not leading rounds.
• Network Strength: Strong connections to enterprise brands and retailers, providing portfolio companies with valuable market access and partnership opportunities.
• Track Record: Active investor with around 27 investments, primarily in U.S.-based startups, including notable portfolio companies like SelfMade.
• Operating Support: Deep understanding of commerce infrastructure, enabling tailored support beyond capital, especially in navigating retail and marketplace ecosystems[1][3].

Role in the Broader Tech Landscape

Interlace Ventures rides the wave of digital commerce transformation, a trend accelerated by shifts in consumer behavior and technology adoption. The timing is critical as commerce increasingly integrates with fintech, software, and marketplace innovations. Market forces such as the rise of direct-to-consumer brands, retail technology advancements, and evolving payment systems create fertile ground for startups in this space. By focusing on commerce infrastructure, Interlace Ventures influences the broader ecosystem by nurturing companies that redefine how goods and services are bought and sold, impacting supply chains, customer engagement, and payment solutions[2][3][5].

Quick Take & Future Outlook

Looking ahead, Interlace Ventures is poised to deepen its influence in the commerce technology sector by continuing to back founders who challenge traditional commerce models. Trends such as AI-driven personalization, embedded finance, and omnichannel retailing will likely shape their investment focus. Their ability to connect startups with large enterprise partners will remain a key advantage, potentially expanding their portfolio’s impact and driving innovation across the commerce landscape. As commerce continues to evolve rapidly, Interlace Ventures’ specialized approach positions them well to capitalize on emerging opportunities and shape the future of commerce[3][5].