Independence Equity I

Independence Equity is a venture capital firm founded in 2010 and based in Northbrook, Illinois. The firm specializes in early-stage investments, focusing on companies that are developing technologies aimed at enhancing resource utilization. By targeting innovative startups in the Midwestern United States, Independence Equity seeks to support the commercialization of solutions that improve efficiency and sustainability across various industries. The firm is committed to fostering growth in its portfolio companies through strategic investments and guidance.

Michael Gruber

Partner

Michael McCullough

Administrative Partner of Fund and Investment Committee Member

Donald Sackman

Managing Partner

8 past transactions

Algal Scientific

Convertible Note in 2016
Algal Scientific Corporation, founded in 2009 and based in Plymouth, Michigan, specializes in developing and selling algae-based products and technologies for the animal health, human nutrition, and wastewater treatment industries. The company produces Algamune, a beta glucan derived from algae, which enhances the immune health of various livestock and aquatic species, and AlgaGLUCAN, a similar product aimed at human nutraceuticals and functional foods. Additionally, Algal Scientific offers the Hypertrophic wastewater treatment system, designed for the food and beverage sector, which effectively treats dissolved organics, nitrogen, and phosphorus while generating a natural fertilizer co-product. With a focus on sustainable practices, Algal Scientific serves both domestic and international markets, contributing to advancements in health and environmental conservation.

Algal Scientific

Series B in 2015
Algal Scientific Corporation, founded in 2009 and based in Plymouth, Michigan, specializes in developing and selling algae-based products and technologies for the animal health, human nutrition, and wastewater treatment industries. The company produces Algamune, a beta glucan derived from algae, which enhances the immune health of various livestock and aquatic species, and AlgaGLUCAN, a similar product aimed at human nutraceuticals and functional foods. Additionally, Algal Scientific offers the Hypertrophic wastewater treatment system, designed for the food and beverage sector, which effectively treats dissolved organics, nitrogen, and phosphorus while generating a natural fertilizer co-product. With a focus on sustainable practices, Algal Scientific serves both domestic and international markets, contributing to advancements in health and environmental conservation.

NuCurrent

Series A in 2014
NuCurrent, Inc. is a developer based in Chicago, Illinois, specializing in high-efficiency antennas and inductive components for wireless power applications. Founded in 2009, the company designs, fabricates, and integrates wireless power antennas and surface-mount inductors for various applications, including power electronics, RF devices, and frequency synthesizers. NuCurrent's products comply with industry standards such as the Alliance for Wireless Power and the Wireless Power Consortium, ensuring broad compatibility. The company collaborates closely with original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and integrators to provide custom-designed, rapid-prototype solutions that enhance efficiency, reduce size, and lower costs. By employing patented designs and advanced manufacturing techniques, NuCurrent aims to improve the durability and performance of wireless power systems, facilitating the evolution of electronic devices.

Algal Scientific

Series A in 2014
Algal Scientific Corporation, founded in 2009 and based in Plymouth, Michigan, specializes in developing and selling algae-based products and technologies for the animal health, human nutrition, and wastewater treatment industries. The company produces Algamune, a beta glucan derived from algae, which enhances the immune health of various livestock and aquatic species, and AlgaGLUCAN, a similar product aimed at human nutraceuticals and functional foods. Additionally, Algal Scientific offers the Hypertrophic wastewater treatment system, designed for the food and beverage sector, which effectively treats dissolved organics, nitrogen, and phosphorus while generating a natural fertilizer co-product. With a focus on sustainable practices, Algal Scientific serves both domestic and international markets, contributing to advancements in health and environmental conservation.

EatStreet

Series B in 2014
EatStreet, Inc. is an online and mobile food ordering service that connects customers with local restaurants across the United States. Founded in 2009 and headquartered in Madison, Wisconsin, the company caters primarily to college students and young professionals, offering a straightforward and affordable way to order delivery and takeout. The platform serves as a centralized hub, providing users with access to a comprehensive listing of partnered restaurants in their area, enabling quick and convenient food ordering. For restaurant owners, EatStreet offers a one-stop solution for online ordering and marketing, helping them attract new customers and increase sales. Through its web, mobile, and social products, EatStreet enhances the dining experience for consumers while supporting local businesses.

Intellihot

Seed Round in 2013
Intellihot specializes in the manufacture of tankless water heating systems tailored for both residential and commercial use. Founded in 2005, the company emerged from a practical need when a traditional water heater malfunctioned, leading to significant water damage. Intellihot's systems are designed to conserve space by eliminating the need for bulky storage tanks, and they incorporate advanced technology, including Wi-Fi and 3G/4G connectivity. This connectivity allows users to monitor and analyze water usage patterns, providing an efficient on-demand heating solution that optimizes performance and resource use. The innovative design of Intellihot's products has garnered recognition and includes several patents pending.

EatStreet

Series A in 2013
EatStreet, Inc. is an online and mobile food ordering service that connects customers with local restaurants across the United States. Founded in 2009 and headquartered in Madison, Wisconsin, the company caters primarily to college students and young professionals, offering a straightforward and affordable way to order delivery and takeout. The platform serves as a centralized hub, providing users with access to a comprehensive listing of partnered restaurants in their area, enabling quick and convenient food ordering. For restaurant owners, EatStreet offers a one-stop solution for online ordering and marketing, helping them attract new customers and increase sales. Through its web, mobile, and social products, EatStreet enhances the dining experience for consumers while supporting local businesses.

Intellihot

Seed Round in 2012
Intellihot specializes in the manufacture of tankless water heating systems tailored for both residential and commercial use. Founded in 2005, the company emerged from a practical need when a traditional water heater malfunctioned, leading to significant water damage. Intellihot's systems are designed to conserve space by eliminating the need for bulky storage tanks, and they incorporate advanced technology, including Wi-Fi and 3G/4G connectivity. This connectivity allows users to monitor and analyze water usage patterns, providing an efficient on-demand heating solution that optimizes performance and resource use. The innovative design of Intellihot's products has garnered recognition and includes several patents pending.
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