RevUp Capital

High-Level Overview

RevUp Capital is a venture firm dedicated to empowering early-stage B2B and B2C startups with non-dilutive, revenue-based funding. Its mission centers on enabling founders to scale their businesses without sacrificing equity or autonomy, making it a compelling alternative to traditional venture capital. RevUp’s investment philosophy is rooted in supporting companies that are revenue-generating and poised for rapid growth—typically those with $500K to $3M in annual revenue and a clear path to $10M–$15M. The firm prioritizes customer-centric, data-driven businesses across high-growth sectors such as fintech, AI, blockchain, and Web3. By preserving founder ownership and providing strategic support, RevUp has become a key player in leveling the playing field for underrepresented founders and startups outside traditional tech hubs.

Origin Story

Founded in 2016, RevUp Capital emerged from the frustration of its leaders—Allan Tear and Melissa Withers—with the limitations of conventional venture capital, which often overlooks promising companies in favor of “unicorn” outliers. With over a decade of experience building and investing in more than 130 companies, Tear and Withers sought to create a model that prioritized sustainable growth and founder empowerment. RevUp’s focus on non-dilutive funding and its commitment to supporting founders from diverse backgrounds—including women, Black and brown entrepreneurs, and those outside major metropolitan areas—has shaped its evolution into a mission-driven investment firm. The firm’s Athena-named funds reflect its dedication to grit, creativity, and resilience in entrepreneurship.

Core Differentiators

• Non-Dilutive Revenue-Based Funding: RevUp provides capital that is repaid as a percentage of future revenue, allowing founders to retain full ownership and control.
• Founder-Centric Approach: The firm actively invests in founders from underrepresented communities and geographies, broadening access to growth capital.
• Strategic Support: Beyond funding, RevUp offers hands-on mentorship, operational guidance, and access to a network of industry experts.
• Proven Track Record: With over 50 successful deals and a focus on sustainable exits, RevUp has demonstrated consistent value creation for its portfolio companies.
• Flexible Investment Size: Typical investments range from $100,000 to $500,000, tailored to the needs of early-stage, revenue-generating startups.

Role in the Broader Tech Landscape

RevUp Capital is riding the wave of a growing demand for alternative financing models in the startup ecosystem. As founders increasingly seek to avoid equity dilution and maintain control, revenue-based financing has gained traction as a viable path to growth. RevUp’s focus on inclusivity and founder empowerment aligns with broader trends toward democratizing access to capital and supporting diverse entrepreneurial talent. The firm’s emphasis on scalable, customer-driven businesses positions it at the intersection of fintech innovation and the future of work, where technology and financial inclusion are reshaping how startups grow and succeed.

Quick Take & Future Outlook

RevUp Capital is well-positioned to continue expanding its influence as the demand for non-dilutive funding grows. The firm’s commitment to founder ownership, combined with its strategic support and inclusive investment thesis, will likely attract a new generation of entrepreneurs seeking sustainable growth. As the startup ecosystem evolves, RevUp’s model may inspire more investors to adopt founder-friendly approaches, further reshaping the venture capital landscape. In a world where founder autonomy and equitable access to capital are increasingly valued, RevUp Capital stands out as a catalyst for change—empowering builders to scale on their own terms.