KATIE RAE

Katie Rae stands as a pivotal figure in the deep tech investment landscape, serving as a Managing Partner and co-founder of The Engine. This MIT-born venture firm is dedicated to investing in 'tough tech' companies, those leveraging scientific breakthroughs to address some of the world's most pressing challenges. Under Rae's leadership, The Engine provides patient capital, specialized infrastructure, and an expert network to founders building transformative technologies that often require longer development cycles and significant capital.

Her investment focus is broad yet specific, targeting startups at the intersection of science and engineering. Key areas include advanced materials, robotics, artificial intelligence, biotechnology, sustainable energy, climate technology, and advanced manufacturing. Katie Rae champions companies that are not just innovative but also possess the potential for profound societal and economic impact, from developing new medical treatments to creating sustainable industrial processes. She understands the unique needs of these ventures, which often involve complex R&D, specialized equipment, and a multidisciplinary approach.

Before co-founding The Engine in 2016, Katie Rae had already established a formidable reputation within the entrepreneurial ecosystem. She served as the Managing Director of Techstars Boston, where she played a crucial role in mentoring and accelerating numerous early-stage startups. Her career background also includes significant experience as an entrepreneur and an active angel investor, providing her with a holistic perspective on the startup journey. This firsthand experience as both a founder and an early-stage investor gives her a unique empathy for the challenges and opportunities faced by deep tech entrepreneurs.

Katie Rae's vision for The Engine was to bridge the critical gap between groundbreaking scientific research emerging from institutions like MIT and the commercialization required to bring these innovations to market. She recognized the need for a venture model specifically tailored to tough tech, one that could provide the necessary resources beyond just capital, including access to specialized labs and equipment. Her commitment extends beyond financial investment; she is a strong advocate for fostering a robust ecosystem where scientific discovery can flourish into world-changing companies.

While specific individual investments are often a collective effort at a firm like The Engine, the portfolio under Katie Rae's guidance reflects her commitment to impactful innovation. Companies within The Engine's ecosystem are tackling challenges ranging from carbon capture and advanced battery technology to precision medicine and novel agricultural solutions. Katie Rae continues to be a driving force in empowering founders who are building the foundational technologies of tomorrow, solidifying her position as a leading voice and investor in the deep tech revolution.