Counterpart Ventures

Counterpart Ventures is a venture capital firm that focuses on investing in early-stage companies, primarily at the Seed and Series A rounds, but also extends to expansion and growth stages. The firm distinguishes itself by bridging traditional venture capital with corporate venture capital (CVC) through its extensive Counter Club community. This network provides founders with access to enterprise customers, strategic partners, and additional capital, aiming to generate tangible value both pre- and post-investment. Counterpart Ventures seeks to invest in enterprise business-to-business (B2B) software as a service (SaaS), mobility, and marketplace technology startups, with a particular interest in disruptive AI-native solutions for established industries.

The firm was founded in 2018 by Patrick Eggen and Joe Saijo, both of whom brought over two decades of combined investment experience from leading corporate venture capital funds, specifically Qualcomm Ventures and Recruit Strategic Partners. Their founding vision was to leverage their deep CVC roots and network to create a unique value proposition for startups, initially distancing themselves from the CVC stigma but later embracing their expertise to build the Counter Club. This community has grown to include over 650 corporate venture units and more than 1,500 investors, making it a significant resource for their portfolio companies.

Counterpart Ventures has built a diverse portfolio with investments in companies across various technology sectors. Notable portfolio companies include those in business/productivity software like Onshore and Remofirst, AI-native platforms such as Arintra and AptEdge, and other innovative solutions like Oxide Computer Company and Cloudbeds. The firm's investment strategy is stage-agnostic, allowing flexibility to invest across a company's lifecycle, often leading and pricing deals with typical investment sizes ranging from $1-5 million.

The leadership team at Counterpart Ventures comprises experienced professionals with diverse backgrounds in technology, finance, and venture capital. Founding General Partners Patrick Eggen and Joe Saijo lead the investment strategy, drawing on their extensive experience in corporate venture. The team also includes Principals Mikey Kailis and Tanvi Narain, who bring expertise in software, natural resources, fintech, and payments. Abbie Wolf serves as the Director of Platform, focusing on content and events for the Counter Club, while Shoko Kanehara is the Director of Business Development, and Al Lalani acts as an Operating Partner.