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1616 Ventures: UK-based global venture fund providing early-stage capital and co-building companies for founders, focused on AI and enterprise software.
Key people at 1616 Ventures.
1616 Ventures is a United Kingdom-based global venture capital fund and startup studio that focuses on early-stage investments in artificial intelligence and enterprise software companies. The firm operates a venture studio model to co-build technology businesses from day zero and provides a specialized fellowship program dedicated to founder development and incubation. Currently completing its Financial Conduct Authority authorization to deploy institutional capital, the organization is actively transitioning from its initial structure as an angel investment syndicate. To further support its growing portfolio of technology startups, the firm plans to expand its operational footprint by launching a dedicated accelerator program in mid-2026. The fund's operations and early-stage investment activities are supported by key financial backers including Jay Lanners Jr, Alexandre Nogueira, and Pedro Mendonça. 1616 Ventures was originally founded in 2022 by General Partner Sridhar Arunagiri.
Key people at 1616 Ventures.
1616 Ventures is a venture capital firm dedicated to fueling the next generation of Brazilian and cross-border tech startups. Its mission centers on empowering early-stage entrepreneurs—particularly at the pre-seed and seed stages—with capital, mentorship, and strategic support. The firm’s investment philosophy is rooted in backing founders with scalable ideas, prioritizing teams and vision over rigid sector mandates. While it has a strong focus on B2B SaaS, Healthtech, E-commerce, and Fintech, 1616 Ventures remains sector-agnostic, seeking startups that can leverage technology for rapid growth in large markets. With a check size typically ranging from $50,000 to $100,000, the firm plays a catalytic role in the Brazilian startup ecosystem, often serving as a launchpad for founders preparing for larger rounds.
Founded in 2022 by Alex Nogueira, 1616 Ventures emerged from a blend of global investing experience and a deep understanding of Latin America’s entrepreneurial potential. Nogueira, a seasoned investor with roots at Goldman Sachs and a background in backing startups worldwide, recognized a gap in early-stage support for Brazilian founders. He was soon joined by Jay Lanners, a venture scout and entrepreneur with experience at Mercado Libre and Bain & Company, and Pedro Mendonça, expanding the team’s reach and expertise. The firm’s evolution has been marked by a deliberate focus on transparency, founder-first engagement, and a hands-on approach to helping startups navigate fundraising and scaling. From its base in São Paulo, with a presence in Miami and connections to New York and Menlo Park, 1616 Ventures has quickly built a reputation for being both accessible and impactful.
1616 Ventures is riding the wave of Brazil’s burgeoning tech ecosystem, where digital transformation, fintech innovation, and e-commerce growth are accelerating. The firm’s timing is strategic: as more Brazilian startups seek global expansion and U.S. investors look for high-potential opportunities in emerging markets, 1616 Ventures acts as a bridge between these worlds. Its presence in both São Paulo and Miami positions it to facilitate cross-border deals and help startups access international networks. By focusing on early-stage companies, the firm helps de-risk innovation and fosters a culture of experimentation, contributing to a more dynamic and resilient startup ecosystem in Latin America.
Looking ahead, 1616 Ventures is poised to deepen its impact as Brazil’s tech scene matures and more startups pursue global ambitions. The firm’s emphasis on founder support, sector flexibility, and cross-border connectivity will likely make it a go-to partner for early-stage entrepreneurs navigating complex fundraising landscapes. As trends like AI, fintech, and digital health continue to reshape industries, 1616 Ventures is well-positioned to identify and back the next wave of scalable startups. Its influence will likely grow not just through capital, but through its ability to connect Brazilian innovation with global opportunities—making it a key player in the evolving story of Latin American tech.
| Date | Company | Round | Lead Investor(s) | Co-Investor(s) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apr 10, 2023 | Assis | $5.0M Seed | Costanoa Ventures | 1616, BFF, Canaan Partners, FJ Labs, Latitud, MAYA Capital, Norte Ventures |