Open Prairie

Open Prairie is a private equity firm based in Effingham, Illinois, founded in 1997. The firm specializes in venture capital investments, primarily targeting technology companies in the Midwest and focusing on underserved markets across the United States. Open Prairie has managed three funds, with over $100 million allocated to investments, predominantly in agriculture technology and medical devices. Additionally, the firm explores opportunities in various sectors, including life sciences, software, information technology, energy, manufacturing, and real estate, aiming to support innovation and growth within these industries.

Dennis E. Beard

Chief Financial Officer & Partner

Ryan Dammeyer

Partner

Tom Doxsie

Partner

Matt McKenna

Partner

Patrick Morand

President

Michael Peck

Venture Partner

Jim Schultz

Founder, Managing Partner and Chairman

James Michael Schultz

Founder, CEO, Chairman and Managing Partner

Rajiv Singh

Partner

Dennis D. Spice

Managing Member and Founding Partner

Lee Strom

Partner

Jason Wrone

Vice President

Past deals in Oregon

Vytelle

Series A in 2021
Vytelle is a company with a deeper purpose and revolutionary technology that helps to advance bovine, deer and buffalo genetics faster by redefining reproduction.

HerdDogg

Series A in 2021
HerdDogg, Inc. specializes in real-time livestock monitoring systems that assist producers in tracking their herds. The company offers a mobile app and software platform that provides insights into breeding, animal health, and traceability for individual animals. This system utilizes DoggTag ear tags, which are attached to the animals, and DoggBone, a passive device that collects data on the activity, health, and location of the herd. HerdDogg's technology is applicable across various livestock industries, including beef, bison, dairy, and sheep. Founded in 2015 and headquartered in Ashland, Oregon, the company aims to enhance herd health management through data science and innovative monitoring solutions.