Rivet Ventures

High-Level Overview

Rivet Ventures is a San Francisco-based venture capital firm that invests primarily in early-stage technology companies targeting women-led markets, where female usage, decision-making, and purchasing power are central to growth. The firm backs founders of any gender but focuses on companies that deliberately serve female consumers, a segment often overlooked by traditional investors. Their investment philosophy centers on identifying undervalued, "unloved" opportunities with strong long-term potential, particularly in consumer-facing sectors. Key sectors include e-commerce, internet, healthcare, software, and marketplaces. Rivet Ventures leverages its diverse team experience and a strong LP network to support portfolio companies beyond capital, assisting with financing, UI design, hiring, and business development, thereby impacting the startup ecosystem by championing female-focused innovation and inclusive entrepreneurship[1][2][4][5].

Origin Story

Founded in 2013 by Rebeca Hwang and Shadi Mehraein, Rivet Ventures emerged with a mission to invest in companies serving women’s markets, recognizing the untapped potential of female consumers. The founding partners brought extensive venture capital and entrepreneurial experience, with Shadi Mehraein having prior roles at Focus Ventures and Bessemer Venture Partners, and Rebeca Hwang contributing deep insight into technology and investing. Over time, the firm has maintained a focus on early-stage investments in the United States, particularly in sectors where women’s influence is critical. Their portfolio includes companies like Ritual and Proper, reflecting their commitment to female-centric innovation. The firm’s evolution has been marked by steady deal flow, averaging 2-6 investments annually, with peak activity around 2016 and continued engagement through 2019[2][6].

Core Differentiators

• Unique Investment Model: Focus on women-led markets and female consumer influence, targeting "dark matter" in consumer segments often ignored by mainstream VC.
• Network Strength: Access to an extraordinary LP base and a diverse team with backgrounds in founding companies and venture investing, enabling hands-on support.
• Track Record: A selective portfolio with 14 investments, including notable exits and a focus on early-stage deals typically ranging from $1M to $5M.
• Operating Support: Active involvement in helping portfolio companies with financing strategies, user interface optimization, hiring, and business development.
• Diverse Team Expertise: Founders and partners with experience at top venture firms and technology companies, providing strategic guidance and mentorship[1][2][5][6].

Role in the Broader Tech Landscape

Rivet Ventures rides the growing trend of recognizing the economic power of female consumers and entrepreneurs, a market segment historically underrepresented in venture capital. The timing is critical as more startups and investors acknowledge the value of designing products and services specifically for women, who drive significant purchasing decisions across many industries. Market forces such as increased awareness of diversity and inclusion, alongside the rise of consumer technology tailored to women’s needs, work in Rivet’s favor. By focusing on this niche, Rivet Ventures influences the broader ecosystem by encouraging more inclusive investment practices and fostering innovation that addresses female consumers’ unique preferences and challenges[1][5][7].

Quick Take & Future Outlook

Looking ahead, Rivet Ventures is well-positioned to capitalize on the increasing demand for women-focused products and services, especially as gender diversity and inclusion remain central themes in tech and investment communities. Trends such as personalized healthcare, fintech for women, and female-driven e-commerce are likely to shape their investment journey. Their influence may grow as they continue to demonstrate the commercial viability of female-centric startups and inspire other investors to broaden their focus. Rivet’s commitment to backing bold, undervalued opportunities suggests they will remain a key player in championing innovation that serves women, reinforcing their role as a catalyst for change in venture capital and the startup ecosystem[5].