1616 Ventures

High-Level Overview

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.

Origin Story

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.

Core Differentiators

• Founder-Centric Approach: 1616 Ventures prioritizes relationships with founders, offering guidance on pitch decks, fundraising strategy, and operational challenges.
• Global Network: The team leverages deep connections with top-tier U.S. and Latin American investors, enabling co-investment opportunities and cross-border expansion for portfolio companies.
• Flexible Sectors: While strong in B2B SaaS, Healthtech, E-commerce, and Fintech, the firm is open to any tech-driven startup with scalable potential.
• Early-Stage Focus: Specializes in pre-seed and seed rounds, often stepping in before larger funds, and never leads rounds—allowing founders to retain control.
• Operational Support: Partners bring hands-on experience from both investing and entrepreneurship, providing practical advice and introductions to key stakeholders.

Role in the Broader Tech Landscape

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.

Quick Take & Future Outlook

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.