Cayuga Venture Fund

Cayuga Venture Fund is a venture capital firm based in Ithaca, New York, founded in 1994. It targets early-stage technology companies in New York State, with a focus on opportunities in Upstate New York and the New York City metropolitan area. The firm concentrates on sectors such as information technology, telecommunications, media, and manufacturing, supporting companies as they scale. Historically, it has raised and deployed multiple funds to finance growth within the New York Metro region, emphasizing investments in technology-driven ventures that can expand across the state.

Ken Rother

Venture Partner

Zachary Shulman JD

Managing Partner

Jennifer Tegan

Partner and VP Finance / Administration

32 past transactions

POM - The Peace of Mind Company

Series A in 2020
POM - The Peace of Mind Company specializes in life and workforce safety solutions, focusing on innovative security technology for various user groups, including healthcare workers, college students, lone workers, and executives. The company has developed a personal safety device that is portable and can be easily attached to keychains or bags, allowing users to carry it in their pockets. This device enables individuals to connect with professionally trained emergency dispatchers at the tap of a button, facilitating quick access to emergency responders in critical situations. By prioritizing personal and enterprise-level security, POM aims to mitigate security risks and enhance safety for its users.

EkoStinger

Seed Round in 2018
EkoStinger is a manufacturer specializing in advanced aerodynamic solutions for trailers in the trucking industry. The company aims to enhance fuel efficiency by offering a superior alternative to traditional side skirts, which often underperform. Its flagship product, the Sliding Stinger, is designed to actively adjust with the trailer's tandems, ensuring optimal fuel efficiency across various driving conditions. Additionally, EkoStinger's technology helps protect airlines and suspension systems while effectively managing crosswinds, thereby improving overall performance for fleet professionals.

Ioxus

Series D in 2018
Ioxus Inc is a manufacturer of ultra-capacitors and energy storage systems, primarily serving the transportation, alternative energy, medical, industrial, and consumer product markets. Founded in 2006 and based in Oneonta, New York, Ioxus specializes in innovative ultracapacitor technologies that deliver high performance with low resistance. Their product offerings include various cells and modules designed for applications such as windmill pitch control, automotive subsystems, backup power solutions, and hybrid energy storage systems. Ioxus operates both domestically and internationally, selling its products through a network of distributors. The company is recognized for providing cost-effective and environmentally friendly energy solutions, particularly for military and transportation sectors. As a subsidiary of XS Power Batteries, Ioxus continues to advance its mission of delivering premium performance energy storage products optimized for high power applications.

GiveGab

Series A in 2018
GiveGab is a company that specializes in online fundraising services tailored for nonprofit organizations, community foundations, and educational institutions. Founded in 2011 and headquartered in Ithaca, New York, the company offers a comprehensive suite of products designed to facilitate fundraising efforts. Its platform connects nonprofits with volunteers and donors, promoting community giving through donations and peer-to-peer fundraising. By enabling organizations to effectively promote their programs and events, GiveGab fosters relationships among fundraisers, volunteers, and the communities they serve.

POM - The Peace of Mind Company

Seed Round in 2017
POM - The Peace of Mind Company specializes in life and workforce safety solutions, focusing on innovative security technology for various user groups, including healthcare workers, college students, lone workers, and executives. The company has developed a personal safety device that is portable and can be easily attached to keychains or bags, allowing users to carry it in their pockets. This device enables individuals to connect with professionally trained emergency dispatchers at the tap of a button, facilitating quick access to emergency responders in critical situations. By prioritizing personal and enterprise-level security, POM aims to mitigate security risks and enhance safety for its users.

GiveGab

Convertible Note in 2016
GiveGab is a company that specializes in online fundraising services tailored for nonprofit organizations, community foundations, and educational institutions. Founded in 2011 and headquartered in Ithaca, New York, the company offers a comprehensive suite of products designed to facilitate fundraising efforts. Its platform connects nonprofits with volunteers and donors, promoting community giving through donations and peer-to-peer fundraising. By enabling organizations to effectively promote their programs and events, GiveGab fosters relationships among fundraisers, volunteers, and the communities they serve.

VenueBook

Series A in 2016
VenueBook is a New York-based company that operates a marketplace designed to enhance the event planning experience by facilitating collaboration between event planners and venue managers. Founded in 2010, VenueBook offers a cloud-based software as a service (SaaS) platform that streamlines the entire event planning process, from initial inquiry to event execution. Its platform allows users to research venues, check availability, compare prices, and complete bookings and payments all in one online space, simplifying communication and management. By providing a comprehensive and user-friendly digital environment, VenueBook aims to make event planning quick, simple, and efficient for all parties involved.

POM - The Peace of Mind Company

Seed Round in 2016
POM - The Peace of Mind Company specializes in life and workforce safety solutions, focusing on innovative security technology for various user groups, including healthcare workers, college students, lone workers, and executives. The company has developed a personal safety device that is portable and can be easily attached to keychains or bags, allowing users to carry it in their pockets. This device enables individuals to connect with professionally trained emergency dispatchers at the tap of a button, facilitating quick access to emergency responders in critical situations. By prioritizing personal and enterprise-level security, POM aims to mitigate security risks and enhance safety for its users.

SocialFlow

Series C in 2015
SocialFlow, Inc. is a software company that specializes in social media distribution and monetization solutions tailored for publishers and media organizations. Founded in 2009 and based in New York, SocialFlow utilizes an advanced algorithm to optimize the timing, relevance, and audience targeting of social media posts. The platform identifies high-performing content for amplification through advertising and integrates these posts into platform-specific advertising formats. Furthermore, it establishes a feedback loop that analyzes audience responses, facilitating the development of new advertising opportunities that enhance client reach to segmented audiences. SocialFlow’s technologies enable publishers to distribute engaging content effectively while generating new revenue streams, and its client roster includes prominent organizations such as Condé Nast, The Associated Press, and CNN. The software supports tens of thousands of journalists globally in extending the reach and engagement of editorial content across various social platforms.

Rheonix

Venture Round in 2015
Rheonix develops automated molecular testing solutions. Its core product is the EncompassMDx platform, a customizable system that operates on single-use cartridges, enabling efficient and accurate molecular diagnostics across various sectors such as reference labs, IVD labs, and point-of-care facilities.

CALIENT Technologies

Venture Round in 2015
CALIENT Technologies designs and manufactures high‑density 3D MEMS optical circuit switches that enable dynamic, low‑latency optical layer optimization for data centers, cloud computing, service‑provider networks, and government applications. Its S‑series switches and OEM subsystem solutions provide adaptable photonic switching that can be deployed as white‑label systems. The LightConnect fabric manager gives operators centralized control over multiple optical nodes. The company also offers professional services such as network design, installation, and training. Founded in 1999 and headquartered in Goleta, California, CALIENT Technologies serves telecommunications, data‑center, and high‑performance‑computing markets with protocol‑agnostic, high‑bandwidth switching platforms.

GiveGab

Seed Round in 2015
GiveGab is a company that specializes in online fundraising services tailored for nonprofit organizations, community foundations, and educational institutions. Founded in 2011 and headquartered in Ithaca, New York, the company offers a comprehensive suite of products designed to facilitate fundraising efforts. Its platform connects nonprofits with volunteers and donors, promoting community giving through donations and peer-to-peer fundraising. By enabling organizations to effectively promote their programs and events, GiveGab fosters relationships among fundraisers, volunteers, and the communities they serve.

Agronomic Technology

Series A in 2014
Agronomic Technology Corp. is a New York-based company that specializes in precision nitrogen management solutions for farmers and agronomists through its cloud-based platform, Adapt-N. Founded in 2013, the company focuses on enhancing growers' financial and environmental performance by leveraging independent data and advanced software models. Adapt-N provides tailored nitrogen rate recommendations for corn fields by integrating various factors such as soil variability, climate dynamics, and farm management practices. This platform aids farmers in making informed decisions regarding fertilizer, crop, and irrigation management, while also helping them anticipate nitrogen stress to minimize yield losses and optimize fertilizer use. Agronomic Technology's services extend to agricultural retailers and cooperatives, making it a valuable resource for enhancing nitrogen use efficiency and improving soil health across numerous states in the United States.

VenueBook

Seed Round in 2014
VenueBook is a New York-based company that operates a marketplace designed to enhance the event planning experience by facilitating collaboration between event planners and venue managers. Founded in 2010, VenueBook offers a cloud-based software as a service (SaaS) platform that streamlines the entire event planning process, from initial inquiry to event execution. Its platform allows users to research venues, check availability, compare prices, and complete bookings and payments all in one online space, simplifying communication and management. By providing a comprehensive and user-friendly digital environment, VenueBook aims to make event planning quick, simple, and efficient for all parties involved.

Chequed.com

Series A in 2014
Chequed.com is a cloud-based Predictive Talent Selection™ platform is used by some of the world’s leading brands including SUBWAY® Restaurants, The Walt Disney Company, Hallmark, Aspen Dental and many others.

Rheonix

Venture Round in 2014
Rheonix develops automated molecular testing solutions. Its core product is the EncompassMDx platform, a customizable system that operates on single-use cartridges, enabling efficient and accurate molecular diagnostics across various sectors such as reference labs, IVD labs, and point-of-care facilities.

Itellio

Series A in 2014
iTellio, LLC is a digital place-based advertising exchange that specializes in the retail Automated Teller Machine (ATM) sector. Founded in 2011 and headquartered in Long Island City, New York, the company offers a software-as-a-service platform that enables remote management of digital advertising on ATM screens and digital touchscreen toppers. iTellio operates a network of over 8,000 screens nationwide, utilizing advanced facial and mobile detection technologies to deliver targeted advertisements to specific demographics. This innovative approach allows advertisers to reach audiences effectively, boasting a daily reach of six million people. By partnering with digital signage operators, iTellio enhances ad inventory monetization and provides businesses with a comprehensive solution to connect with potential customers locally and nationally.

CALIENT Technologies

Venture Round in 2014
CALIENT Technologies designs and manufactures high‑density 3D MEMS optical circuit switches that enable dynamic, low‑latency optical layer optimization for data centers, cloud computing, service‑provider networks, and government applications. Its S‑series switches and OEM subsystem solutions provide adaptable photonic switching that can be deployed as white‑label systems. The LightConnect fabric manager gives operators centralized control over multiple optical nodes. The company also offers professional services such as network design, installation, and training. Founded in 1999 and headquartered in Goleta, California, CALIENT Technologies serves telecommunications, data‑center, and high‑performance‑computing markets with protocol‑agnostic, high‑bandwidth switching platforms.

True Gault

Venture Round in 2014
True Gault designs high-heel shoes tailored to women's unique foot measurements. Using a proprietary app, customers create 3D scans of their feet, choosing from various styles and heel heights. Shoes are manufactured in Spain and delivered within three to four weeks.

Rheonix

Venture Round in 2013
Rheonix develops automated molecular testing solutions. Its core product is the EncompassMDx platform, a customizable system that operates on single-use cartridges, enabling efficient and accurate molecular diagnostics across various sectors such as reference labs, IVD labs, and point-of-care facilities.

GiveGab

Seed Round in 2013
GiveGab is a company that specializes in online fundraising services tailored for nonprofit organizations, community foundations, and educational institutions. Founded in 2011 and headquartered in Ithaca, New York, the company offers a comprehensive suite of products designed to facilitate fundraising efforts. Its platform connects nonprofits with volunteers and donors, promoting community giving through donations and peer-to-peer fundraising. By enabling organizations to effectively promote their programs and events, GiveGab fosters relationships among fundraisers, volunteers, and the communities they serve.

GiveGab

Seed Round in 2013
GiveGab is a company that specializes in online fundraising services tailored for nonprofit organizations, community foundations, and educational institutions. Founded in 2011 and headquartered in Ithaca, New York, the company offers a comprehensive suite of products designed to facilitate fundraising efforts. Its platform connects nonprofits with volunteers and donors, promoting community giving through donations and peer-to-peer fundraising. By enabling organizations to effectively promote their programs and events, GiveGab fosters relationships among fundraisers, volunteers, and the communities they serve.

Cheribundi

Venture Round in 2012
Cheribundi, Inc. is a beverage company specializing in the production and sale of cherry juices and related products. Founded in 2004 and based in Geneva, New York, with additional offices in Boulder, Colorado, Cheribundi offers a variety of juices, including 100% Tart Cherry Juice, Tart Cherry Juice Light, and blended options that combine tart cherry juice with other fruit juices. The company emphasizes the health benefits of tart cherries, promoting their anti-inflammatory properties and potential support for muscle recovery. Cheribundi's products are distributed through retail channels and online platforms, catering to consumers seeking nutritious, antioxidant-rich beverages aimed at boosting immunity.

BinOptics

Venture Round in 2011
BinOptics Corporation is a manufacturer of monolithically integrated optoelectronic components, specializing in a range of advanced laser technologies. The company produces directly modulated Fabry-Pérot lasers, directly modulated distributed feedback lasers, and ring lasers, alongside custom integrated chips that include edge- and surface-emitting lasers, electroabsorption modulators, semiconductor optical amplifiers, beam couplers, waveguides, and on-chip lenses. These products cater to various applications, primarily in datacom and telecommunications, such as gigabit Ethernet and Passive Optical Networks (PON), as well as advanced non-telecommunication applications. Founded in 2000 and headquartered in Ithaca, New York, BinOptics is recognized for its innovative contributions to the optoelectronic industry.

Rheonix

Series A in 2010
Rheonix develops automated molecular testing solutions. Its core product is the EncompassMDx platform, a customizable system that operates on single-use cartridges, enabling efficient and accurate molecular diagnostics across various sectors such as reference labs, IVD labs, and point-of-care facilities.

e2e Materials

Series A in 2010
e2e Materials, Inc. is a biocomposite manufacturer based in Ithaca, New York, established in 2006. The company specializes in designing, developing, and producing innovative biocomposites for the furniture, cabinetry, and other related markets. Its products are derived from sustainable materials, specifically soy flour and natural fibers such as jute, flax, and kenaf, which not only enhance strength but also offer biodegradability. e2e Materials aims to transform the industrial wood products marketplace by providing a more environmentally friendly alternative to traditional wood composites, significantly outperforming legacy products in performance and sustainability. The company serves a global customer base through distribution partners, focusing on enabling manufacturers to reduce operational costs and improve efficiency while adhering to stringent environmental regulations. By fostering a regional business model, e2e Materials contributes to job creation across agriculture, manufacturing, and technology sectors, promoting a greener economy.

SoundCloud

Seed Round in 2009
SoundCloud, established in 2008 by Alexander Ljung and Eric Wahlforss, is a global social sound platform that enables users to create, share, and discover music. It offers a vast selection of audio content from a diverse creator community, facilitated by an open platform that directly connects creators with their fans worldwide. Users can instantly record, upload, and share sounds, while also accessing detailed statistics and community feedback.

Instinctiv

Seed Round in 2008
Instinctiv, Inc. is a music management and discovery application developer based in New York, founded in 2007. Originally known as Predict Systems, the company specializes in creating music players for Mac users and offers a full-featured music management experience for both desktop and mobile platforms. The Instinctiv Player allows users to sync their entire music library across devices using its innovative Everyware cloud-based technology. Key features include smart playback options like Instinctiv Shuffle and song identification through Identifi. Additionally, Instinctiv provides an iPhone application that streamlines music libraries, helping users rediscover their music based on their preferences. In May 2012, Instinctiv was acquired by SoundCloud.

Primet Precision Materials

Series B in 2007
Primet Precision Materials, Inc. is an advanced materials manufacturer specializing in lithium-ion battery materials, founded in 2004 and headquartered in Ithaca, New York. The company addresses the growing demand for high-performance, cost-effective lithium-ion batteries essential for electric transportation applications, including e-bikes, hybrids, and electric vehicles. Utilizing its patented NanoScission process technology, Primet produces various battery electrode materials that not only enhance performance but also promote environmentally-friendly manufacturing processes. This innovation enables businesses to significantly reduce capital and operating costs associated with electrode materials production, positioning Primet as a key player in the evolving landscape of electric transportation.

BinOptics

Series C in 2006
BinOptics Corporation is a manufacturer of monolithically integrated optoelectronic components, specializing in a range of advanced laser technologies. The company produces directly modulated Fabry-Pérot lasers, directly modulated distributed feedback lasers, and ring lasers, alongside custom integrated chips that include edge- and surface-emitting lasers, electroabsorption modulators, semiconductor optical amplifiers, beam couplers, waveguides, and on-chip lenses. These products cater to various applications, primarily in datacom and telecommunications, such as gigabit Ethernet and Passive Optical Networks (PON), as well as advanced non-telecommunication applications. Founded in 2000 and headquartered in Ithaca, New York, BinOptics is recognized for its innovative contributions to the optoelectronic industry.

Allworx

Venture Round in 2006
Allworx is a company focused on developing and selling Voice Over IP (VoIP) phone systems tailored for small businesses with 3 to 150 users at each location. It aims to equip modern small enterprises with advanced communication technologies that are typically available to larger corporations. Allworx offers a comprehensive suite of products that combines PBX and key phone functionalities with essential network services. These products encompass secured Internet access, remote office capabilities, group collaboration tools, and messaging software, including email, voicemail, unified messaging, follow-me calling, and group calendaring. The company operates through two main divisions: Product, which is responsible for the design, manufacture, marketing, and sale of its communication systems, and Consulting, which provides engineering services for software and digital hardware development.

BinOptics

Series B in 2005
BinOptics Corporation is a manufacturer of monolithically integrated optoelectronic components, specializing in a range of advanced laser technologies. The company produces directly modulated Fabry-Pérot lasers, directly modulated distributed feedback lasers, and ring lasers, alongside custom integrated chips that include edge- and surface-emitting lasers, electroabsorption modulators, semiconductor optical amplifiers, beam couplers, waveguides, and on-chip lenses. These products cater to various applications, primarily in datacom and telecommunications, such as gigabit Ethernet and Passive Optical Networks (PON), as well as advanced non-telecommunication applications. Founded in 2000 and headquartered in Ithaca, New York, BinOptics is recognized for its innovative contributions to the optoelectronic industry.
Spot something off? Help us improve by flagging any incorrect or outdated information. Just email us at support@teaserclub.com. Your feedback is most welcome.