Betaworks

Betaworks is a startup studio and venture capital firm based in New York, founded in 2008. The company focuses on building and investing in next-generation internet companies, operating as a network that connects ideas, people, capital, and data. Betaworks emphasizes an innovative approach to seed-stage investments, typically ranging from $150,000 to $200,000, targeting early-stage, technology-driven companies with working prototypes. The firm collaborates closely with its portfolio companies, which include notable names such as Giphy and Instapaper, fostering a community that encourages entrepreneurship and mentorship. Betaworks Ventures, established in 2016, further extends the firm’s commitment to investing in various sectors including B2B, B2C, and emerging technologies like artificial intelligence and virtual reality. Through its unique model, Betaworks aims to create a more sustainable approach to innovation, allowing builders to engage in multiple projects rather than being tied to a single venture.

Neel Baronia

Principal

John Borthwick

Investor

Jordan Crook

Partner

Matthew Hartman

Partner

Sam Mandel

Partner of Business and Corporate Development

Andrew McLaughlin

Venture Partner

Peter Rojas

General Partner

Julie Zhang

Senior Associate

Past deals in Vermont

Superplastic

Series B in 2020
Superplastic, Inc. is a character-based product and entertainment company founded in 2017 and based in Burlington, Vermont. The company specializes in manufacturing and marketing limited edition art toys, apparel, games, and animation, featuring unique characters created in collaboration with renowned artists. Superplastic leverages the principles of effort and scarcity to enhance the value of its offerings, creating exclusive works of art for a select audience. The company also operates a platform that engages customers through various media, including animated videos and music, enabling interactions with its synthetic superstars in innovative ways. Products are primarily sold online, reflecting a modern approach to retail and entertainment.