Version One Ventures

Version One Ventures is an early-stage venture capital firm dedicated to backing mission-driven founders who are pioneering new markets and categories. The firm focuses on identifying and supporting entrepreneurs with bold, innovative ideas that have the potential to build generational technology companies. They commit to these founders from the earliest stages, often before their solutions are fully obvious or their market categories are clearly defined. Version One Ventures actively shares its learnings and viewpoints to help innovators make a significant, long-term impact.

Founded in 2012 by Boris Wertz, Version One Ventures formalized Wertz's extensive experience as an entrepreneur and angel investor. Wertz, who previously founded Just Books (later acquired by Amazon.com), transitioned to investing with a vision to systematically identify and nurture nascent technology ventures. Angela Tran Kingyens later joined as a General Partner, contributing to the firm's growth and expanding its reach. The firm maintains offices in both Vancouver, British Columbia, and San Francisco, California, reflecting its North American investment focus.

The firm's investment portfolio spans a diverse range of sectors, including consumer internet, SaaS, mobile, marketplaces, cryptocurrency, fintech, and healthcare. Notable investments include Ada, an AI-powered customer service automation platform; Coinbase, a leading digital currency platform; Uniswap, a prominent decentralized crypto exchange; Shippo, which simplifies e-commerce shipping; and Jobber, a software solution for home and commercial service businesses. Other significant portfolio companies mentioned include Headout, GridBank, CryptoKitties, Outreach, Top Hat, and Wattpad.

Version One Ventures provides more than just capital, offering mentorship, strategic guidance, and operational support to help startups navigate scaling challenges and refine their business models. Their approach emphasizes a deep understanding of network effects and a commitment to fostering innovation in both existing and emerging markets across Canada and the United States.