Online investment platform MicroVentures has created a "500 Startups Fund" open to accredited investors.
The Fund provides investors access to startups fostered by the well-known, Mountain View based, accelerator by way of a unique position in three 500 Startups' Funds for as little as USD10,000. Investors not utilising the MicroVentures' platform would need to invest at least USD400,000 to create a similar diversified portfolio.
As of January 2015, MicroVentures and its 25,000 global investors have deployed over USD60MM to approximately 100 companies. With offices in Austin, TX and San Francisco, CA, the FINRA registered platform provides exclusive access to curated startup investment deal flow, allowing investors to review due diligence and speak with experienced licensed financial professionals prior to making an investment.
"Over the years, MicroVentures has built a platform that gives investors the ability to diversify investments in early to late stage opportunities. Our level of due diligence and customer support are unique resources angel investors previously did not have access to," says Bill Clark, Founder and CEO of MicroVentures. "Investors are increasingly seeking diversification and international exposure. MicroVentures through the 500 Startups Fund provides both, while reinforcing its long-standing commitment of supporting investor demand for diversified opportunities."
Since 2010, 500 Startups, an accelerator and seed fund, has supported thousands of entrepreneurs and invested in companies such as SendGrid, Simple, MakerBot, and Wildfire Interactive. Founder, Dave McClure encourages a Lean Startup approach and making many small bets, while limiting downside risk and taking advantage of positive clusters to optimise a business, or portfolio. 500 Startups is widely recognised by the entrepreneur and investor community as one of the most innovative accelerator programs in the world. MicroVentures' model introduces 500 Startups to new and experienced startup investors seeking smaller investments in a greater number of ideas
The philosophy is not unlike that of how MicroVentures' distinct investment platform works and today, accredited investors seeking to diversify their portfolio are open to participate in the MicroVentures' 500 Startups Fund. This Fund will encompass Fund III – 500 Startups' latest fund, Fund I Annex – a follow-on round supporting 500 Startups' initial startups, and 500 Luchadores – 500 Startups' fund focused on startups in Latin America.
