Upfront Ventures

Upfront Ventures is a California-based early-stage venture capital firm focused on seed and Series A rounds for technology-led startups. Founded in 1996 and headquartered in Santa Monica with an additional office in Los Angeles, the firm backs companies across software, SaaS, fintech, health tech, AI, consumer internet, gaming, hardware, and related sectors. It pursues opportunities primarily in North America with a concentration in Southern California and also considers investments in Europe and other regions. Typical checks range from 0.5 million to 15 million in seed rounds and 2 million to 5 million in Series A rounds, reserving capital for follow-ons and often taking a board seat in portfolio companies. Upfront has supported notable founders and startups across technology sectors, including Ring, TrueCar, Bird, Maker Studios, GOAT, Apeel Sciences, thredUP, Invoca, and Kyriba, reflecting a long-term partner approach to building scalable businesses.