Collide Capital, co-founded by Brian Hollins and Aaron Samuels, has successfully closed its second fund, raising $95 million. Established in 2021, the firm focuses on investing in early-stage companies within the fintech, supply chain, and future of work sectors. Having previously closed its inaugural fund at $66 million in 2022, Collide Capital has already backed 75 companies.
Hollins noted that it took about 13 months to secure the funding for Fund II, which they intend to deploy over the next three and a half years. The investment landscape for emerging fund managers remains challenging; however, the Collide Capital team boasts a robust track record. Hollins has a decade of experience at firms like Goldman Sachs and Lightspeed, while Samuels has held roles at Bain and co-founded AfroTech, a leading technology conference.
Limited partners for Fund II include prominent entities such as the University of California Endowment, Accolade Partners, Fairview Capital, Goldman Sachs, and JPMorgan. The firm plans to make investments averaging between $1 million to $3 million, with a goal of supporting at least 30 companies. They have already allocated funds to five businesses, adding to a portfolio that features companies such as Culina Health and Helios. Hollins expressed a keen interest in platforms that promote automation, real-time collaboration, and rapid, data-driven decision-making.
In addition to its investment endeavours, Collide Capital is keen on expanding its Collide Campus program, which was initiated in 2022 to mentor aspiring founders and venture capitalists. This initiative is independent of their fundraising efforts and includes two components: an undergraduate program to educate students in venture capital and entrepreneurship, and a graduate fellowship allowing students to work alongside the Collide team.
The undergraduate program currently operates on over 20 campuses, including renowned institutions like Harvard and Johns Hopkins, having already benefitted more than 50 students who have secured prestigious positions at firms such as General Catalyst and Collide. Samuels highlighted that this programme not only aids in sourcing deals but also helps cultivate talent—a venture they wished was available during their own academic journeys.
Ultimately, Samuels articulated a vision of bridging the gap between promising individuals and the venture capital landscape, aiming to harness their dedication to creating impactful businesses.
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