We started Rough Draft Ventures because we have faith in student founders. We bet on them early and commit to them long-term. We take pride in helping them iterate on rough drafts to build enduring, impactful companies.
We invest checks through founder-friendly SAFEs via our network of student fellows, supplying the brightest student founders across the US with meaningful resources, access to education, and one of their earliest support systems.
Rough Draft 101
- Stage: We focus on Pre-Seed and Seed investments, with checks between $100-$150k. Have an idea? It’s never too early to pitch us!
- Industry: We’re industry-agnostic, and we all have different interests and specialties. Don’t hesitate to apply.
- Location: For now, we focus on US-based companies (incorporated as a C-Corp in Delaware).
- Strategy: We strive to be students’ first checks and are committed to being partners in their entrepreneurial journeys. We back ambitious, bold, curious, and energetic teams with a strong bias to action and ability to follow through.
- Inclusion: We are committed to sourcing and working with diverse founders and funders. No matter where you come from, what you study, or how you identify, we want to hear from you. Cold applications are welcome and, in fact, encouraged.
- Why Choose RDV: We are committed to sourcing and working with diverse founders and funders. No matter where you come from, what you study, or how you identify.
Our Community
The RDV community is comprised of world-class founders, operators, and investors who have all been in your shoes. Our passion is unlocking your entrepreneurial journey, and we’re here to give you everything you need to grow.