Investments

VSI invests in Northwest and other early-stage growth companies that create jobs, improve the environment, reduce waste, improve education, and enhance the human condition.

Opportunities to back experienced managers or entrepreneurs

Whether you are a group of people with an idea you think will change the world or a small company that needs a patient, thoughtful partner to help you get to the next level, we look to invest in people with passion about their idea, expertise in their industry and a product or service that can be truly disruptive.

Northwest people backing primarily Northwest companies.

We recognize the value of long-term relationships. We are friends with many of the people we invest in. Being able to grab a cup of coffee with local entrepreneurs and discuss ideas and issues is how we work. For those reasons, we typically choose to only back companies located in the greater Pacific Northwest so we can be accessible to our portfolio companies and the people that run them.

Efficient use of capital

The majority of our investments will be able to achieve long-term viability, liquidity or exit with less than $15M in invested capital. Companies that require large infusions of capital may not be a good fit for VSI.

Thoughtful about exit

As an early stage investor, we are looking for liquidity at some point. We like to invest in companies where managers understand and acknowledge the importance of a liquidity event. Due to the unique nature of our capital, we do not need to follow the traditional “3 years and out” venture model.

Invest where we add value

Money is often important to any new business or investment. But for us, its typically about bringing more than money to the table. We want to leverage our experience and try to avoid those areas in which we don’t have any. For that reason, not all deals are right for VSI.