Unorthodox Ventures

Unorthodox Ventures, founded in 2017 by entrepreneur Carey Smith, is a venture capital firm based in Austin, Texas. The firm aims to transform the traditional investment model by focusing on partnering with founders who exhibit both disruptive innovation and operational discipline. Unlike many investment firms that rely on financiers, Unorthodox Ventures is comprised of individuals with hands-on experience in running and growing companies. The firm specifically targets the consumer products and services sector, seeking to collaborate with entrepreneurs who are poised to challenge the status quo and drive meaningful change in their industries.

Cuinn Alexander

Principal

Daniel Allen

Principal

Gavin Holiday

Principal

Lewis Kilongo

Principal

J. Carey Smith

Founding Contrarian

Brian Smith

Principal

Anderson Smith

Principal

25 past transactions

Supira Medical

Series E in 2025
Supira Medical develops a percutaneous ventricular assist device (pVAD) designed to provide temporary mechanical support during high-risk coronary interventions and cardiogenic shock. Its solution assists the native pumping action of the heart, enabling patients to undergo necessary procedures.

Laplace Interventional

Series C in 2025
Laplace develops transcatheter tricuspid valve technology, enhancing life expectancy and improving quality of life for global patients with tricuspid regurgitation through a minimally invasive procedure.

Sonavex

Series A in 2024
Sonavex develops imaging technologies for vascular and surgical care, employing ultrasound to detect postoperative blood clots at the point of care and to measure intravascular flow metrics for timely decision making. It also develops bioresorbable, echogenic devices to mark at-risk vessels and to collect data on arteriovenous fistula flow, diameter, and depth at dialysis clinics to assess maturation and anticipate future complications. Based in Baltimore, Maryland, Sonavex focuses on delivering data-driven visualization of vessel health to improve surgical and dialysis patient outcomes.

CorFlow

Series B in 2024
CorFlow Therapeutics is a medtech startup focused on developing innovative technologies for the diagnosis and treatment of microvascular obstructions in patients experiencing heart attacks. The company has created a controlled flow infusion system that utilizes a proprietary concept to measure microvascular resistance, allowing interventional cardiologists to assess the severity of microvascular obstruction. By comparing these measurements with post-procedure contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging, CorFlow's technology aims to improve the diagnosis and treatment of microvascular obstruction, potentially reducing both short- and long-term complications for severe heart attack patients. Through its advancements, CorFlow is committed to addressing significant unmet medical needs in cardiology.

Adona Medical

Series C in 2024
Adona Medical innovates interventional approaches for managing heart failure, a progressive condition affecting millions globally. Its platform aims to improve care by enabling personalized management of cardiac patients through advanced sensor and shunt technologies.

FIRMUS

Venture Round in 2024
Firmus develops an artificial intelligence-based software solution tailored for the construction industry, focusing on the identification and prevention of design errors. The software analyzes construction models and rationalizes issues derived from numerous reports, presenting prioritized feedback based on cost and complexity. This enables construction companies to learn from past mistakes, reduce risk, and optimize their methods. Additionally, Firmus provides an intelligent issue tracking interface that facilitates effective communication among team members and seamlessly integrates with existing workflows, enhancing overall project coordination and efficiency.

ConKay Medical Systems

Seed Round in 2024
ConKay Medical Systems is an early-stage medical device company focused on creating innovative solutions for treating valvular regurgitation in patients experiencing progressive heart failure. The company has developed a device that utilizes annular repair technology to address the primary cause of functional regurgitation, preserving the integrity of healthy leaflets to ensure they function as intended. By advancing cardiovascular care, ConKay Medical Systems aims to improve treatment outcomes for patients with this serious condition.

Laza Medical

Series A in 2023
Laza Medical is a startup developing an AI-powered robotic imaging system for cardiovascular interventions. Its solution aims to optimize procedural workflows and enhance imaging standards in cardiac procedures, benefiting a wide range of clinicians.

Carthera

Series B in 2023
Carthera is a clinical-stage medtech company focused on developing innovative ultrasound-based medical devices for treating brain disorders. Its proprietary device, SonoCloud®, is an intracranial ultrasound implant that, when used in conjunction with an intravenous microbubble agent, temporarily opens the blood-brain barrier. This mechanism significantly enhances the delivery of therapeutic molecules to the brain, potentially providing new treatment options for debilitating neurological conditions. Through its technology, Carthera aims to enable healthcare professionals to address challenging brain disorders more effectively.

Corporis Medical

Series B in 2023
Corporis Medical develops and commercializes diagnostic tools for minimally invasive surgery, focusing on laparoscopic and bowel procedures. Its devices help surgeons predict anastomosis quality during operations, reducing postoperative complications such as anastomotic leakages. By improving diagnostic accuracy and surgical outcomes, the company lowers healthcare costs and enhances access to effective surgical care.

Supira Medical

Series D in 2023
Supira Medical develops a percutaneous ventricular assist device (pVAD) designed to provide temporary mechanical support during high-risk coronary interventions and cardiogenic shock. Its solution assists the native pumping action of the heart, enabling patients to undergo necessary procedures.

Akura Medical

Series B in 2023
Akura Medical develops next-generation thrombectomy devices designed to simplify clot removal with a single-pass procedure, offering an easy-to-use solution to efficiently remove blood clots. The company also provides a range of surgical, medical, dental, and veterinary instruments to support clinicians in addressing venous thromboembolism and other clot-related conditions across diverse patient populations.

KEWAZO

Series A in 2023
KEWAZO develops autonomous robotics systems for construction sites. Its primary product is LIFTBOT, a robotic material hoist that safely transports scaffolding parts during assembly, reducing labor costs by up to 44%, addressing labor shortages, and enhancing safety. Additionally, Kewazo collects operational data from its robots on-site, providing customers with a data analytics platform for proactive project management.

Lumen

Series B in 2022
Lumen is a company that has developed a portable device and accompanying app that measures an individual's metabolism through a single breath. This technology provides users with real-time insights into their metabolic health, enabling them to receive personalized nutrition recommendations tailored to their unique metabolic data. By using Lumen, individuals can better understand their dietary needs and manage their weight effectively, whether their goals are weight loss, performance optimization, or overall wellness. The company is comprised of a diverse team of scientists, researchers, engineers, and designers dedicated to transforming how people approach their health through improved metabolic awareness.

SafKan Health

Series A in 2022
SafKan Health, founded in 2016 and based in Tucson, Arizona, specializes in the development and manufacturing of automated ear cleaning devices for clinical applications. Its flagship product, OtoSet, is the first automated ear cleaning device to receive FDA clearance, addressing the needs of the 35 million Americans affected by impacted earwax, a common cause of conductive hearing loss. OtoSet offers a hygienic and mess-free solution for earwax removal, featuring disposable ear tips and waste containers. The device is designed to perform both bilateral and unilateral procedures, allowing for effective removal of mild to severe earwax impactions, thereby providing patients with a safe and efficient tool for ear care.

Zippsafe

Venture Round in 2022
Zippsafe AG is a technology company specializing in innovative storage solutions that prioritize space efficiency. It focuses on the development, manufacturing, and installation of lockable closing bags designed for changing rooms and public spaces. By utilizing a flexible, fabric-based locker system, Zippsafe's self-service wardrobe systems offer a more efficient alternative to traditional metal lockers. This design not only maximizes available space but also provides cost savings and increased occupancy for venues such as event organizers, conference centers, and warehouses. Through its advanced storage solutions, Zippsafe aims to enhance the overall experience in public environments.

DiaMonTech

Venture Round in 2022
Founded in 2015, DiaMonTech specializes in developing non-invasive medical diagnostic devices. Its proprietary photo-thermal detection technology enables accurate glucose level measurements without finger pricking or blood samples.

Awkward Essentials

Seed Round in 2021
Awkward Essentials is a company based in San Jose, Costa Rica, founded in 2013. It specializes in a single product known as the dripstick, designed for post-sex cleanup. The dripstick is made from a super soft, medical-grade sponge that effectively absorbs excess fluids, allowing users to maintain personal hygiene with ease. By focusing on this innovative solution, Awkward Essentials addresses a common need for discreet and convenient after-sex cleanup, enhancing the overall experience for its users.

Vibrant Gastro

Series E in 2021
Vibrant Gastro is a company focused on developing and producing a chemical-free vibrating capsule designed to treat constipation. The innovative capsule aims to address the fundamental physiological aspects of constipation, promoting natural bowel activity without relying on chemical supplements or disrupting the body’s internal balance. Leveraging extensive knowledge in gastrointestinal health and motility, Vibrant Gastro offers a novel solution for individuals seeking effective relief from constipation while maintaining a commitment to chemical-free treatment options.

FitJoy

Venture Round in 2020
FitJoy produces designer health snacks, focusing on gluten-free, GMO-free protein bars. Their products are made without maltitol, sucralose, and artificial colors, flavors, or sweeteners. They also operate the Joy Forward initiative, donating a portion of proceeds to feed underprivileged children in the U.S.

Afia

Seed Round in 2020
Afia provides a variety bundle, a vegan bundle, traditional kibbeh, traditional falafel, za'atar falafel, garlic, and herb afia falafel. mediterranean, gluten free, vegan, plant-based, non-GMO, turmeric falafel, sun-dried tomato falafel, and three cheese falafel products.

ShotGun Seltzer

Venture Round in 2019
ShotGun Seltzer LLC is a manufacturer of alcoholic spiked seltzer and cocktail products, established in 2019 and based in Austin, Texas. The company offers a range of seltzer flavors crafted from high-quality ingredients and all-natural flavors inspired by classic cocktail recipes. Its products are available in various venues, including bars, restaurants, event spaces, hotels, and resorts, providing consumers with a unique and crisp taste experience. ShotGun Seltzer aims to deliver craft quality in its offerings, appealing to customers looking for original and refreshing beverage options.

Lumen

Series B in 2019
Lumen is a company that has developed a portable device and accompanying app that measures an individual's metabolism through a single breath. This technology provides users with real-time insights into their metabolic health, enabling them to receive personalized nutrition recommendations tailored to their unique metabolic data. By using Lumen, individuals can better understand their dietary needs and manage their weight effectively, whether their goals are weight loss, performance optimization, or overall wellness. The company is comprised of a diverse team of scientists, researchers, engineers, and designers dedicated to transforming how people approach their health through improved metabolic awareness.

Tushy

Venture Round in 2019
Founded in 2014, Tushy is a modern company specializing in bidet attachments designed to enhance bathroom hygiene and promote environmental sustainability. Its products include the Tushy Classic and Spa bidets with temperature control systems, along with complementary accessories. Tushy markets its products primarily online, serving customers in the United States and internationally.

GoFish Cam

Acquisition in 2019
GoFish Cam, Inc. is a Toronto-based company founded in 2014 that specializes in the development and manufacturing of a wireless underwater action camera specifically designed for anglers. This innovative camera is designed to sit on a fishing line, allowing users to capture high-quality underwater footage of their fishing experiences. Its stabilized and waterproof design ensures that the camera records without wobbling, providing a clear view of the action. Integrated with a mobile application, the GoFish Cam enables anglers to gain insights into their fishing activities, review and edit their videos, and share content on social media, enhancing the overall fishing experience.
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