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Upstart Labs operates as a Portland-based venture studio, directly supporting early-stage technology companies. It invests its in-house team's expertise:developers, designers, and marketers:into client projects for equity. This service-for-equity model provides nascent ventures crucial operational assistance, accelerating product development and market entry through collaboration, bypassing immediate capital.
Founded in 2011 by Greg Rau, Kevin Tate, and Jenn Lynch, Upstart Labs emerged from their collective insight into new tech startup challenges. Drawing from prior experience at StepChange Group, the founders envisioned a model beyond traditional capital, providing hands-on operational support for early-stage companies.
Upstart Labs partners with early-stage entrepreneurs and technology companies to validate and scale innovations. Embedding its expertise, the studio expedites market readiness and fosters partner growth. Its vision is to empower founders with tangible resources and guidance, transforming concepts into viable businesses within a dynamic ecosystem.
Upstart Labs has 2 tracked investments across 2 companies. The latest tracked deal is $1.4M Seed in Celly in February 2013.
| Date | Company | Round | Lead Investor(s) | Co-Investor(s) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Feb 19, 2013 | Celly | $1.4M Seed | Oregon Venture Fund | Portland Seed Fund |
| Apr 1, 2012 | Chirpify | $1.0M Seed | Upstart Labs | Founders' Co OP, LOI Venture, Pioneer Square Labs, Unlock Venture Partners, Voyager Capital |